Richard Dennison Schrader Jr, 77, of Eudora, passed away on August 17, 2026 at his home. Services are currently pending and will be released by Rumsey-Yost Funeral Home at a later date.
Author: RumseyYost
Robert Eugene “Gene” Grogan
Robert “Gene” Grogan, 87, passed away in the presence of family at his home on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, in Lawrence, Kansas.
Born on January 27, 1939, Gene grew up on a family farm near Grogan, Missouri in Texas County. He was the son of the late Hazel Odessa (Summers) Grogan and James Robert Grogan.
After graduating from Summersville High School, Gene enlisted in the U.S. Army. He was stationed in Bad Hersfeld, Germany where he met a local woman, Lisa Habermehl. Two years later they would marry on September 22, 1962 in Eunice, Missouri.
Together they made their first home in Willow Springs, Missouri and a son, Andreas was born in 1964. A few years later, Gene moved his family to West Plains, Missouri where he became a member of the First Baptist Church and was active in the choir and served as a deacon for many years. Gene worked at District 9 of MDOT until his retirement in 2001. Concurrently, Gene was a member of the 1138th MP Company Missouri Army National Guard and as such, completed 20 years of proud military service.
Gene purchased some land in Howell County near Pomona, Missouri where he, along with the aid of his family created a hobby farm of a few cows, rabbits, and an abundant garden. While seeming to have few other hobbies, Gene, nevertheless, learned to play the guitar. After retirement, he would apply this musical talent along with his singing to entertain at the West Plains senior center. While he enjoyed listening to ‘old country’ music, his performing genre was gospel. It was one of the ways of sharing his love for the Lord.
In 2009, Gene and Lisa moved from southern Missouri to Lawrence, Kansas to be nearer their three ‘newly acquired’ granddaughters – Jessie, Jamie, and Josie. Gene took the term ‘Grandpa’ with ease and pride.
Gene was a devoted reader of the Bible. He joined the church family of First Southern Baptist Church in Lawrence and particularly enjoyed the fellowship of his Sunday school class.
Gene was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Maria Smith.
He is survived by his beloved wife of nearly 64 years, Lisa M. Grogan and son, Andreas Grogan of Lawrence, Kansas.
No memorial services are planned. Burial will be at Howell Memorial Park Cemetery in Pomona, Missouri at a later date.
Carolyn Sue Mills
Carolyn Sue “Sue” Mills, 80, of Lawrence, Kansas, passed away Tuesday, August 11, 2026, at her home in Lawrence.
She was born April 1, 1946, in Lawrence, the daughter of Jack and Shirley Schultz. She was a graduate of Tonganoxie High School. She moved to Lawrence in 1969 from Colorado Springs, Colorado.
Sue married Clarence Irvin “Butch” Mills on February 27, 1965, in Tonganoxie, Kansas. Butch preceded her in death in 2006.
Sue was a homemaker who devoted much of her life to caring for her family and creating a loving home. She was a devoted friend and a loving mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Family was at the heart of Sue’s life, and she treasured the time she spent with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She took great pride in watching her family grow and was always there to offer love, encouragement, and support. Those who knew Sue will remember her for her caring heart, her loyalty to her family and friends, and the love she freely gave to those around her. Her family will cherish the many memories they made with her and the lasting love she leaves behind.
Sue is survived by her two sons, Mark Mills and wife Bonnie of Lawrence, Kansas, and Dennis Mills and wife Lori of Lawrence, Kansas; her mother, Shirley Schultz of Lawrence, Kansas; and her two sisters, Sharon Meyer of Shawnee Mission, Kansas, and Bobbi Kelly of Houston, Texas.
She is also survived by six grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren: Aaron Mills and wife Lena, and their children Mya, Mila, and Meredith; Dustin Mills and wife Danielle, and their daughter Lily; Hope Lee and her children Ava, Betty, and Grace; Andrea and husband Cody Peepgrass; Samantha Mills; and Jacob Mills.
She was preceded in death by husband Butch Mills, father Jack Schultz, great-granddaughter Ellie.
A visitation will take place before the funeral at 9:00 a.m. Friday, August 21, 2026, at Tonganoxie Christian Church. Funeral services will take place at 10:00 a.m. Friday August 21, 2026 at Tonganoxie Christian Church, 204 E. Washington St. Tonganoxie, Kansas 66086. Graveside services for family will follow at Maple Grove Cemetery, Tonganoxie, Kansas.
Timothy Pliler
Timothy Pliler, age 63 of Lawrence, passed away August 7, 2026.
Memorial Services will be 5:00 P.M. Saturday, August 15, 2026 at Rumsey-Yost Funeral Home of Lawrence.
Robert Anthony (Rob) Mooney
Robert (Rob) Anthony Mooney, age 57, passed away on August 12th, 2026 surrounded by the people he loved most. Rob never knew a stranger, he was friends with everyone he met. His humor, warmth, and ability to make others feel seen made him unforgettable. Even in serious moments, Rob had a gift for easing tension; he could drop a perfectly timed movie quote or a funny remark that made you laugh even when you didn’t feel like it. That gift stayed with him until the very end, as he continued joking and laughing with his family.
Rob lived life with spontaneity and joy. It wasn’t unusual for him to call his wife on a Friday afternoon and say, “Pack up the kids, we’re going somewhere this weekend.” He embraced adventure, loved the outdoors, and especially cherished time in the mountains. After his heart attack in 2011, he took up mountain biking and fell in love with it. He rode almost every day, sharing the joy of biking with others and forming friendships throughout the cycling community. He was a proud member of both the Lawrence Bicycle Club and the Lawrence Mountain Bike Club.
Rob was loyal to a fault. If you were a true friend to him, he stood by you, cared for you, and showed up when you needed him. He was smart and resourceful, able to look at a problem and see solutions no one else saw. He loved sports and wrote a sports column for a Topeka paper titled “From the Cheap Seats.”
Rob worked many jobs throughout his life, but most recently served as the Director of Transportation for Midland Pace. He wasn’t just an employee, he was a promoter of Midland’s mission. He often told people about the program and kept an eye out for good drivers.
First and foremost, Rob was a Christian. He loved God, his family, and those around him, in that order. He was generous with his time and money, serving faithfully at Heritage Baptist Church for over 20 years as a bus captain and Jr. Church teacher. During that time, he witnessed many children and families come to know the grace of God. In his last few years, he and his family transferred to First Southern Baptist Church, where he deeply appreciated the joy, love and support of the congregation.
Rob loved his family fiercely and worked hard to build a special connection with each of his children. He is survived by his wife, Suzy Mooney (Dilfer); his six children, William “Ace” Butrum, Harrison Cooperider, Kassandra Mann, Rhett Mooney, Charity Mooney, and David Mooney; his five grandchildren, Joeseph, Zakary, Ezekiel, Rowan, and Kayleigh; his five brothers, David, Jim, Mike, Jay, and John; sister, Suzanne, and his mother, Peggy Mooney (Masters).
Rob loved deeply, lived fully, and gave generously. His laughter, loyalty, and faith touched countless lives, and his legacy will continue in the hearts of all who knew him.
Visitation will be 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. Friday, August 21, 2026, at First Southern Baptist Church, 4300 W 6th Street, Lawrence, KS. Funeral Services will be 1:00 p.m. Saturday, August 22, 2026, also at the church. Burial will follow at Twin Mounds Cemetery.
For those wishing to help with medical bills and expenses, a GoFundMe has been set up: https://www.gofundme.com/support-robert-mooneys-brain-cancer-fight
Betty B Bean
Betty B Bean, 95, passed away peacefully on August 10, 2026, at Presbyterian Manor in Lawrence, Kansas. Betty was born January 31, 1931, in Pueblo, CO, the daughter of Albert and Marguerite (Drew) Gennetten. She worked for J. C. Penney, Hutchinson KS, for 34 years. Following her retirement, Betty moved to Oskaloosa, KS, and later to Lawrence, Kansas. Betty enjoyed decorating her home, working outdoors, and playing cards with family and friends. She was preceded in death by her son, Frank L Bean and six siblings Alice Pryor, Cleta Greer, Ernest Gennetten, Delbert Gennetten, Ed Wood and Ron Wood. Survivors include her two daughters, Cindy Nelson (Jim) of Lake Elmo, Minnesota, and Sharie Mueller (Dave) of Oskaloosa, Kansas; her grandson, Derek Mueller of Lenexa, Kansas; her granddaughter, Carie Mueller Credit (Andre) of Pearland, Texas and her great-grandson Kai. A grave side service will be held at a future date. Betty will be remembered for her independent spirit, consideration of others and lifelong dedication to health and wellness.
Michael Lynn Vail
Michael Lynn Vail, 72, passed away Thursday, August 13, 2026, at his home surrounded by loved ones. A private ceremony will be held by family members at a later date. He will be buried beside the love of his life, Anita, in Uniontown, Kansas.
Michael was born September 27, 1953 in Lawrence, Kansas. He graduated from Turner High School in 1971. He retired as a Millwright, Local 1529.
He married Anita L. Heckman, June 22, 1974. They were married for 38 years until her passing on June 17, 2012.
He is survived by his four children, Kara M. Gourley (Troy), Amy E. Brown (Kevin), Eric M. Vail (Amanda) and Nathan L. Vail (Lindsey). He was extremely proud of his 12 grandchildren Chelsie Grammer, Tyler & Chase Gourley, Owen, Keeley & Adelyn Brown, Keegan, Irelyn, Michaiah & Boden Vail, Hallie & Quinlynn Vail.
He is also survived by his two brothers Larry & Dennis Vail.
He will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to Anita and their four children. His greatest joy was watching his children grow, and he spoke often and proudly of all they accomplished. In retirement, he especially cherished watching his grandchildren play sports.
He will forever be remembered for his big heart, his unforgettable laugh, and, above all, for being the kindest man we have ever known.
Vicky Marilyn Burk
Vicky Marilyn (Siddens) Burk passed away unexpectedly at her home in Lawrence, Kansas, on August 11, 2026.
Vicky was born on May 11, 1948, in Topeka, Kansas, to Lucille and George Siddens. She graduated from Tonganoxie High School in 1966. She married the love of her life, Robert Ralph Burk, on May 29, 1971, in Lawrence, Kansas. Together, they raised their beloved son, Robert “Robbie” Burk Jr. Vicky and Robert were lifelong residents of Lawrence and built a life centered around family, love, and countless cherished memories.
Vicky worked on the factory line at Hallmark in Lawrence before later working for the Lawrence school system. She also had the unique opportunity to share her creativity and craftsmanship with the University of Kansas, where she reupholstered the Jayhawk mascots, Big Jay and Little Jay, in the early 1980s.
Vicky’s greatest joy in life was her family, especially her grandchildren, who were truly her whole world. She could often be found spending time with them, crafting, shopping with her sisters, or simply enjoying a good laugh and reminiscing over old stories. She especially loved her Cici’s Pizza nights with her grandchildren, creating memories they will treasure forever.
Vicky was an avid crafter and loved diamond art, painting, and anything that allowed her creativity to shine. She had a wonderful ability to make people laugh, and she always had time for a story, a smile, or a good conversation. She was immensely proud of her family and loved being involved in the lives of her grandchildren.
Vicky was preceded in death by her husband, Robert Ralph Burk; her parents, Lucille and George Siddens; her half-sister, Betty Richter.
She leaves behind her son, Robert “Robbie” Burk Jr and his wife Ashley, her sisters, Norma Moore (Ralph Moore) and Susanne Heien (Richard Heien); her grandchildren, Kelsey, Kenny, and Charlie; and countless family members and friends who loved her dearly.
Vicky’s love, laughter, creativity, and devotion to her family will be deeply missed. Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her, especially in the many beautiful memories she created with her family.
Visitation will be from 12:00 to 1:00 pm on Monday, August 17, 2026, at Rumsey-Yost Funeral Home in Lawrence, Kansas with graveside services to follow at 2:00 pm at Stoney Point Cemetery in Baldwin City, Kansas.
Gloria Jean (Rusco) Chediak
Gloria Jean (Rusco) Chediak, 82, of Lawrence, Kan., died peacefully on Saturday, July 25, 2026, at her home, surrounded by her family.
Gloria was born in Great Bend, Kan., on August 10, 1943, the daughter of Orville and Katherine (Schartz) Rusco. She grew up on the family farm, where she developed a lifelong love of animals and a spirit of adventure.
She attended a one-room country elementary school before graduating from Great Bend High School in 1961. A first-generation college student, Gloria earned a bachelor’s degree in sociology from Fort Hays State University in 1965 and a master’s degree in social work from the University of Missouri in 1968.
Gloria began her career in social work at Larned State Hospital in Larned, Kan. She later became a licensed clinical social worker and worked at the Kansas Neurological Institute in Topeka, Kan. After moving to Lawrence in 1975, she eventually entered private practice, specializing in child and family therapy. She was a member of the Kansas Society for Clinical Social Work and the National Association of Social Workers.
Gloria devoted herself to raising her two children and spent countless hours as a school volunteer and activity coordinator. She served as den mother for her son’s Cub Scout group, hosting weekly meetings in the family room. She put her talents to work supporting her daughter’s activities as well, sewing dance costumes, baking for fundraisers, and driving around Kansas City in search of the best gymnastics, volleyball, and basketball equipment.
Her maternal nature extended to her children’s friends. She took a genuine interest in their lives and was always willing to be “the chauffeur.” Gloria delighted in opening her home to guests and loved both entertaining and being entertained by them. She was known for her boisterous laugh, fun-loving spirit, and great sense of humor.
An avid collector of dolls and figurines, Gloria proudly displayed her collections throughout her home. She doted on her cats, all of whom had been adopted as strays. She was also politically active and a fierce advocate for women’s rights, volunteering on numerous local political campaigns.
Later in life, Gloria enjoyed road trips to nearby towns and places of historical interest, often accompanied by her best friend, Carol. She cherished time with her grandchildren and enjoyed the company of friends, neighbors, and relatives.
Gloria was preceded in death by her brother, James Rusco, and her sister, Vaunita (Rusco) Schnell.
She is survived by her husband, Dr. Elias Chediak of Lawrence; her daughter, Lea (Chediak) King of Basehor, Kan.; her son, Mark Chediak, and his wife, Lousie Paige, of Berkeley, Calif.; three cherished grandchildren, Reece of Basehor, Kan., and Felix and Lucian of Berkeley, Calif.; her beloved nieces and nephew; and her many wonderful cousins.
A visitation will be held at 9:30 a.m. on Friday, September 4, at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church in Lawrence, followed by a funeral Mass at 10 a.m. and a reception at 11 a.m.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Lawrence Humane Society at https://lawrencehumane.org/.
Susan Lynn Root
Susan Lynn Root
December 3, 1951 – August 9, 2026
Susan was born in Scott City, KS and moved to Lawrence in the 2nd grade. She graduated from Lawrence High School.
Susan was a lifelong learner with many interests. She was an avid reader with a large library. She loved music and singing and was a member of The Sweet Adelines Barbershop group. She liked everything from Barbershop to Bluegrass to Queen. She had an amazing laugh and loved a good joke. She cared about animals, especially cats. She enjoyed a good debate. She was interested in innovation and future possibilities. She was a fantastic cook and her fudge and pumpkin pie were legendary. She enjoyed action movies and science fiction.
She enjoyed traveling and spending time with her family. She lived in several states and 2 tours in Germany as an Army spouse. She loved to see new places and explore new things.
She showed her love in generous actions and words. She will be greatly missed.
She is preceded in death by her parents, Kenneth and Jenelda Long, and brother Jeffrey Long.
She is survived by her daughter Jessica Brown (Mike) and a son Matthew Parton (Kristine); grandchildren: Alexander, Kendall, Tatum, Dominic, and Alea, and many extended family and friends.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date.
