Author: RumseyYost

Michael P. Suitt

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Michael P. Suitt, 80, was born on December 18, 1945, in Admire, Kansas, to Charles and Florene Suitt. He grew up in Topeka, Kansas, and attended Highland Park High School.

Shortly after graduating, Mike began a distinguished career with the Douglas County Sheriff’s Department. He dedicated 32 years of service to the department and retired as a Lieutenant in 2001.

On November 3, 1982, Mike married Cheryl (Harrell) Suitt. They shared a loving marriage until Cheryl passed away on April 2, 2013, following a courageous battle with brain cancer. In 2016, Mike married Mary (Goodson) Suitt, and they enjoyed many happy years together until her passing in February 2026.

Mike was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Florene Suitt of Topeka, Kansas; his wife, Cheryl Suitt of Lawrence, Kansas; and his wife, Mary Suitt of Lawrence, Kansas.

He is survived by his sister, Becky Connelly and her husband, Jim, of Topeka, Kansas; his children, Michael Suitt Jr. (Cindy) of St. Joseph, Missouri, Kevin Suitt (Joelle) of Hardeeville, South Carolina, Leslie Dlugoshe (Dave) of Round Rock, Texas, and Joey Suitt (Lindsey) of Baldwin City, Kansas, brother Fred Suitt, Topeka Kansas.

Mike was also blessed with many grandchildren: John, Brandi, Charles, Kyle, Jordan, Faith, Peyton, Lilly, Maelee, and Anderson; as well as great-grandchildren, one great-great-granddaughter, and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends who will cherish his memory.

An avid fisherman throughout his life, Mike was a proud member of the Kansas Walleye Association for 15 years. He enjoyed fishing across the state of Kansas and was especially known as a regular at Clinton Lake, where he spent countless hours pursuing his passion and building lasting friendships.

Mike will be remembered for his dedication to public service, his love for his family, and his passion for the outdoors. His presence will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

A Visitation will take place from 4-6:30, Monday, August 3, 2026, at Rumsey-Yost Funeral Home.

Gregory Louis Bower

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“ All too soon, we say goodbye to Gregory Louis Bower, age 60, who passed away at his home in Lawrence, Kansas, on July 26, 2026. He was born on July 12, 1966, in Lawrence, Kansas.

He preferred to be called “Louie” because, in junior high, he took guitar lessons, and the only song he knew was “Louie, Louie.” The nickname stuck. He always knew what he wanted to do when he “grew up.” At age 18, he followed in his beloved grandfather’s footsteps in the floor-covering trade, eventually owning and operating his own successful business for 30 years.

Louie is survived by his sons, Austin and Sebastian Bower of Topeka; his mother, Linda Provo of Lawrence; his father, Robert Vincent “Vince” (Barbara) Bower of Omaha; and his sister, Michelle Moreland of Lawrence, who treasures a lifetime of memories—especially of “52 Card Pickup,” played three times before she realized he wasn’t actually teaching her a card game. She is also grateful to be the single caregiver for him in his last year.

He is also survived by his nieces and nephew: Sierra Pritchard of Lawrence; Misty (Andrew) Eisenbarger of Lawrence; Joshua (Liz) Moreland of Kansas City; Molly Moreland of Kansas City; Emily Moreland of Lawrence; and many other beloved family members scattered across the United States.

Louie was preceded in death by his older brother, Chris, in 2017, whom he missed dearly; his maternal grandparents, Mabel Heinrich Hagerman and Louie Heinrich; and his paternal grandparents, Ed and Nelly Bower.

Everyone who knew Louie knew he had both a superpower and a secret—he cared. He cared deeply, even if he sometimes had a hard time admitting it. His legacy of kindness, generosity, and love will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

In true Louie fashion, we will gather for one last North Lawrence party at the Union Pacific Train Depot on Sunday, August 16, from 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Food and beverages will be provided.”

Dee Quillin

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Dee Quillin, 86, passed away at his home on July 25, 2026. Arrangements are pending with Rumsey-Yost Funeral Home and will be posted as soon as they are available.

Dee was born and raised in Samburg, Tennessee. During the start of Dee’s career in the Navy he was part of the original commissioning crew, as a Machinist Mate, of the USS kitty hawk   (CVA-63)….which set on her first sail on April 25, 1961 from Philadelphia Naval Shipyard. Dee spent 7 tours in Vietnam of which some time was on the USS Repose (AH-16). Dee’s ended his career of 14 years as a 2nd class petty officer and shortly thereafter joined the NJ national guard and continued as a civilian marine mechanic with FMC corporation until a tragic shipboard explosion left Dee disabled and unable to work.

Dee was married to wife Maria for 52 years before she passed away in October 2019. Dee helped raise his God Son, and wife’s Maria’s nephew, Alexander.  Dee and Maria neither had any children of their own.

Dee has 2  granddaughters from Alexander, Xiomara-11 and iliana-14;  4 sisters: Zelda-deceased, Sue-deceased, Survived by sister Mae and Dawn, A Twin brother James L – deceased.

Brian Shay

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Brian Shay, a beloved fixture of the Lawrence, Kansas community, passed away, leaving behind a profound legacy as a passionate environmentalist, devoted family man, and the driving force behind The Re-Cyclery. His dedication to keeping bicycles out of landfills and empowering his community continues to echo through the streets of LFK.
Brian’s life was deeply rooted in a shared love for family, friends, and cycling. He is survived by his two sons, Morgan and Devin; and wife Kristie and her children.
To Brian, the local bicycle community was an extension of his own family.  He will always be remembered for his tireless efforts to save and repurpose thousands of Bikes including the famous VEOs after they were abandoned at the local junkyard in 2020. That monumental effort—rescuing salvageable bikes and ensuring they were repurposed for the community—remained one of his many achievements. Seeing those saved bicycles being pedaled around town brought an enduring smile to his face. He spent his life ensuring that cycling remained accessible and affordable for everyone in the area. His legacy of turning old bikes into joy for kids and adults alike highlights the true spirit of his generosity.
Brian’s spirit, ingenuity, and passion for all things on wheels will be sorely missed, but his mission of community service and sustainability will pedal on through the lives he touched.

Robert L. “Bud” Johnson

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Robert L. “Bud” Johnson, 89, of Lawrence, Kansas, passed away peacefully on July 24, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.

Born on June 29, 1937, in Lawrence, Kansas, Bud was the son of Kenneth N. Johnson and Erma M. (Holladay) Johnson. He graduated from Lawrence High School in 1955 and remained a proud Lawrence resident throughout his entire life.

Bud lived a life defined by faith, service, devotion, and love. A godly Christian man, he faithfully served the Lord throughout his life and was deeply involved in his church and church camp ministries. For most of his life, he attended Central United Methodist Church and later Indian Hills Church of God and Lawrence Free Methodist Church where he formed many lasting friendships through church fellowship and Sunday School classes. In recent years, he attended First Southern Baptist Church. His church families and the many friends he made through those congregations were a cherished and important part of his life. Whether volunteering his time, encouraging others in their faith, or lending a helping hand, Bud’s servant heart touched countless lives.

Bud was proud to have served his country in the United States Army, a commitment that reflected the values of duty, honor, and service that guided him throughout his life.

He was also especially proud of his career as a letter carrier with the United States Postal Service, where he dedicated more than 35 years of service before retiring in 1999.  Bud took great pride in both his work and the friendships he built throughout his career. He was respected for his strong work ethic, integrity, and dedication to serving his community.

Beyond his work and ministry, Bud enjoyed leatherworking and creating handcrafted items that reflected his patience and craftsmanship. More than any hobby, however, he treasured time spent with his family. He found his greatest joy in being a husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.

On March 9, 1958, Bud married the love of his life, Dorothy “Dot” (Carey) Johnson. Together they shared 68 wonderful years of marriage, building a home centered on faith, love, commitment, and family. Following his retirement, Bud and Dot enjoyed spending time at Bennett Spring State Park in Missouri and making trips to Branson and Silver Dollar City, places that held special memories from years of family vacations with their children.

In addition to his wife, Dot, Bud is survived by his children, Robin (Johnson) Jacobsen of Lawrence, Kansas, Marc Johnson and wife Jessica of Lenexa, Kansas, and Brad Johnson and wife Ida of Lawrence, Kansas; his brother, Fred Johnson of Lawrence, Kansas; his sister, Ellen Franklin of Kansas City, Missouri; 11 grandchildren and many grandchildren spouses; and 7 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Kenneth and Erma Johnson, and his brother, Jerry Johnson.

Bud will be remembered for his unwavering faith, humble spirit, gentle kindness, strong work ethic, and deep love for his family. His life was a testament to God’s grace and faithfulness. The example he set as a husband, father, grandfather, friend, neighbor, veteran, and servant of Christ will continue to inspire those who were blessed to know him.

Services will be held Saturday, August 8, 2026, at First Southern Baptist Church. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m., followed by a memorial service at 11:00 a.m. Family and friends are invited to gather to remember and celebrate Bud’s life.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to First Southern Baptist Church, 4300 W 6th St, Lawrence, KS 66049 or the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 6704, Hagerstown, MD 21741.

“Well done, good and faithful servant.” — Matthew 25:23

Richard Herley McFall Jr.

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Richard “Rick” McFall Jr., 78, passed away peacefully at his home in Lawrence, Kansas, on July 23, 2026, surrounded by the love and comfort of his family.
Rick was born on September 26, 1947, in Eureka, Kansas, to Richard McFall Sr. and Irma McFall. As the oldest of seven children, he grew up in a lively, close knit home where family shaped every part of his life. His childhood memories of Eureka remained deeply meaningful to him.

Facing the possibility of being drafted into the Vietnam War, Rick chose to join the United States Air Force, proudly serving for eight years. He carried the quiet strength, discipline, and perspective from that time with him throughout his life.

On March 4, 1977, he married the love of his life, Jo. Together they built a home filled with love, laughter, and unwavering devotion. They raised their two children, Tina and Todd, and spent most of their married life in Douglass, Kansas, where Rick became a familiar and trusted presence in the community.

Rick had a lifelong love of sports. He played baseball in his younger years and later spent many seasons on the softball field. While he enjoyed the game, his greatest joy was always his family. He especially loved making people laugh. His quick wit, playful humor, and perfectly timed one liners became a signature part of gatherings with family and friends.

Rick was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather who took immense pride in his grandchildren. He was deeply involved in their lives, showing up for every milestone, celebration, and moment that mattered. His presence extended far beyond his immediate family. He was so involved and so beloved that he became well known among his children’s and grandchildren’s friends, who often saw him as an honorary grandparent, a source of humor, and a steady, welcoming figure.

Rick was preceded in death by his parents, Richard McFall Sr. and Irma McFall, and by his brothers, Teddy and Tommy.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Jo; his children, Tina (husband Mark) and Todd; his cherished grandchildren, Hayley (husband Matt and children Marcus and Logan), Nicholas, Reganne, and Abbey; Hayley and Reganne’s dad Dean (wife Renee), his siblings, Danny, Timmy, Jan and Sally, and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

Rick will be remembered not only for his service to his country and his devotion to his family, but for his humor, his kindness, and his gentle, accepting spirit. His family considers this one of the greatest gifts he gave them, and they will carry forward his legacy of kindness, acceptance, and unconditional love.

A private family ceremony will be held in Eureka, Kansas, where his family will celebrate his life and honor the place where his story began.

The family suggests memorial contributions made to the Alzheimer’s Association, directly

https://donorservices.alz.org/page/FUNYAFYQDKA?utm_source=google&utm_medium=paidsearch&utm_campaign=giving_google_brand_alz_donations&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=1707986387&gbraid=0AAAAAD8nX1qHsnyIYDPBELzxieBMtPf84&gclid=CjwKCAjwmozTBhAeEiwAkEGZzoidws1l4IrV2c__aq0eR315qWeapz96gOSCbwYRP9jA-7cuw3ZXmRoC4-8QAvD_BwE

or

sent to Rumsey-Yost Funeral Home, P.O. Bx 1260 Lawrence, Kansas 66044

Craig Rowland Jacob

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Craig Rowland Jacob passed away on the 24th day of July, 2026 at the age of 81. Craig was born at the Brooklyn Naval Yard Hospital to Howard and Irene Jacob on the 24th day of January 1945. He grew up in Wichita, Kansas and graduated from South East Highschool and where he participated in theatre, band, and sports.

In his youth Craig spent a summer of caravanning for the Walther League, a youth organization for the Lutheran Church. He traveled with a small group of other youth across the United States to numerous congregations to lead and revitalize their church’s youth programs.

Craig graduated from Kansas State Teacher’s College (Emporia State University) in 1968 where his focus was on elementary and learning disabilities education. Craig and Gloria both attended the Kansas State Teacher’s College and it was here that they met. Gloria was working at the information and candy stand when Craig saw her, and as he described it, it was love at first sight. On June 5th 1966, Craig and Gloria (Blevins) wed at the Eudora Methodist church.

After graduation, Craig worked as a learning disabilities and classroom teacher, where he was one of the first learning disabilities teachers in the State of Kansas. He went on to earn his Master’s degree at The University of Kansas.  After working as a teacher for many years, he began work at Quaker Oats in Lawrence. There he was involved in training and received multiple awards for his hard work in building a high performing team.  In his retirement Craig had a number of unofficial jobs working with his son, Jeff. He enjoyed working at Innovative Security and Bulldog Tow where he assisted Jeff with whatever was needed. He also volunteered at the Salvation Army helping to distribute food.

Craig and Gloria were charter members of the Lawrence Habitat for Humanity, where he served as secretary and president on the board. He worked hard and spent many days working on jobsites to build houses to benefit the community. In his retirement, he went back to volunteering with Habitat, this time in their retail facility, sorting donations and pricing items for sale.

Craig leaves behind his wife of 60 years, Gloria Jacob, his daughter Cari and her husband Vern Andrews of Holton, KS, his favorite granddaughter, Kay Andrews and her fiancé Christian Baldonado of Topeka, KS, and favorite grandson, Jacob Andrews and partner Baylee Wolf, of Camas, Washington. Craig also leaves behind his three brothers and their families, Rod and Jane Jacob, Tim and Helen Jacob, Jan and Vicki Jacob, as well as a brother-in-law, who was more like a brother, Gordon Blevins.

Craig was preceded in death by his son, Jeff Jacob, brother-in-law, George Blevins, and parents.

Family and friends are invited to gather on Thursday, July 30, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. for a service of remembrance at Rumsey-Yost Funeral Home, followed by visitation.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to KU Endowment – please note Cancer Research Gift Fund (01759) on memo line, in care of Rumsey-Yost Funeral Home, 601 Indiana St., Lawrence, KS 66044.

Craig’s legacy of love, service, and laughter will live on in the hearts and lives of all who knew and loved him.

Donald Herbert Richards

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Donald Herbert Richards

Don passed away from pancreatic cancer July 18, 2026 surrounded by his loving family. He was 78 yrs old.

Don was born in Kassel, Germany, to Donald Harry Richards and Hedwig Hahn Richards. An only child, he grew up in his grandparents’ home while his family relocated throughout Germany with the military. During high school, Don and his parents moved to Colorado Springs, CO. Having grown up as an “Army brat,” he later joined the Navy and served several tours of duty in Vietnam aboard wooden-hulled Minesweeping Boats (MSBs) and later submarines.

After his military discharge, Don settled in Denver, CO, and met the love of his life, Denise Ann. They were married in 1971 and together had one child, Nathan. (Don proudly gained a daughter, Rebecca, when Nathan married in 2011.)

While in CO, he chose respiratory therapy as his desired career and earned his Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) credential in 1974. Then in 1975, Don began work on his baccalaureate degree through the University of New York at Stony Brook. He later received a full graduate scholarship from the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare (HEW) to continue his studies, and in 1979 he graduated from Stony Brook with a second, advanced degree.

Don went on to serve as a part-time faculty member at Wichita State University and as Cardio-Pulmonary Department Manager at the VA Hospital in Wichita, Kansas where he later became their Head of Diagnostic Services.

Beyond his professional roles, Don was deeply involved in health care, public service, and professional leadership. His contributions included service with:

  • The American Lung Association of Kansas, including a term as president
  • The Health Professions Network, a national organization dedicated to raising awareness of the need for more health care professionals
  • The Kansas Respiratory Care Society (KRCS), where he served for many years on the Board of Directors

Don also helped establish licensure for respiratory therapy in Kansas, drafted the first continuing education requirements, served as the first Continuing Education Coordinator, and represented the KRCS on the Respiratory Care Council to the Kansas Board of Healing Arts. Nationally, he represented Kansas through the American Association for Respiratory Care as both a member of the House of Delegates and a member of the National Board of Directors.

In 1992, Don and his family moved to Topeka, Kansas. He became the Kansas Board of Regents’ Health Careers Specialist.

In that role, Don continued to provide expertise and leadership in various health care organizations, as well as assist in developing a national health careers exploration curriculum for high school students interested in health care careers. He was also instrumental in securing a multi-year grant from the State of Kansas to help local nursing schools obtain additional funding, expand class sizes, and graduate more nurses.

Don retired in 2012, giving him and Denise more time to travel and to enjoy his lifelong hobby of model railroading. He remained active with the Lawrence Model Railroad Club and the European Train Enthusiasts in Kansas City. He also loved German sports cars—especially Porsches—and, of course, German beer. He once caused a stir among German friends by admitting that he liked Belgian beer as much as German beer. Don often quoted Spock’s famous phrase, “Live long and prosper,” and added his own good-humored wish: “and be sure to enjoy a good craft beer with friends. Prost!”

Don’s life will be celebrated Wednesday, July 29, 2026 at the Union Pacific Depot in Lawrence, KS at 10:30 am. A reception will follow. Guests are invited to share memories, stories, and good times from Don’s remarkable life. Bright colors and “Tommy Bahama” shirts are welcomed and encouraged.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Don’s name may be made to the Lawrence Memorial Hospital Oncology Department, the Visiting Nurses Hospice Association, the Lawrence Model Railroad Club, or a charity of your choice.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JOSÉ DE JESÚS CASTILLO APONTE

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With profound gratitude for his life and quiet sorrow at his passing, we announce the death of José de Jesús Castillo Aponte. José passed away peacefully on July 21, 2026, in Lawrence, KS, at the age of 88, surrounded by the love of his family.

José was born in Barrancabermeja, Santander, Colombia, on May 27, 1938, to Jorge Castillo and Marina Aponte. His childhood was shaped by the early loss of his mother and the strength of his father, a hardworking man who sacrificed deeply to ensure José completed his primary education. Through the life-changing generosity of anonymous benefactors, José was later able to attend boarding school for his secondary education. Those formative years forged the resilient, determined character that defined his life.

Through hard work, he earned a Chemical Engineering degree from the National University of Colombia in 1966. Around this time, he met Ismaelina Rueda, the love of his life. Shortly after graduating, the couple welcomed their first son, Jorge.

In 1970 José made the courageous decision to move to the United States with his family to further pursue his education.  He earned a Master of Science in Management from the State University of New York (SUNY) at Binghamton. During their time abroad, their family was complete with the birth of their second son, Carlos.

Upon returning to South America, José discovered his true calling: university teaching. He spent several years inspiring students in Venezuela before returning to Colombia in 1982 to establish himself as a respected consultant and academic. In 1988, he reached the pinnacle of his academic journey, earning a Doctorate in Human Resources from Universidad de los Andes.

Firmly convinced that people are an organization’s greatest asset, José dedicated his professional life to unlocking human potential. As a professor, consultant, and author, he shared his wealth of knowledge generously. His enduring academic legacy includes six published books that continue to guide and inspire new generations of professionals.

Jose and his wife moved to Topeka, Kansas in 1997 and lived in multiple cities in Florida afterwards.  They proudly became US citizens on September 15, 2006, and moved to Lawrence, KS in 2021.

José will be remembered for his calm spirit, profound wisdom, unshakeable integrity, gentle sense of humor, and unwavering belief in the transformative power of education. Just as the kindness of strangers once unlocked his own future, José spent his life multiplying that gift for many others. His story stands as a beautiful testament to how a single act of generosity can transform generations.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Ismaelina Rueda of Lawrence, Kansas; his children and their families: Jorge and Olga of Bogotá, Colombia (and their son, Juan David), and Carlos and Jacquelyn of Lawrence, Kansas (and their children, Ashley of Denver, Colorado, and Hunter and his son, Hudson, of Lawrence, Kansas).

A memorial Mass celebrating José’s life was held in a heartfelt ceremony of faith and remembrance. Family and friends gathered in prayer for the eternal repose of his soul.

May he rest in eternal peace, and may his memory forever remain a source of light and inspiration.

Julie Ann Thompson

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Julie Ann Thompson, 68, died July 20, 2026, peacefully at her home in Lawrence, KS. She was born August 26, 1957, to parents Margarito F. Mendoza and Deloris R. Mendoza in Fort Bragg, N.C.

Julie had two sisters, Denise Mendoza and Debbie Wells, and one brother, Marty Mendoza.

She moved to Lawrence, KS, in 2000 to be closer to her first-born grandchildren. While at home, she tended to her many plants, which passersby would stop to admire. She enjoyed her music and added to it with her tambourine.

Julie loved her trips to Colorado with her daughters. She was a member of Eastside Church and held steadfast in her faith in the Lord. Julie would religiously do her Bible study every day, 10:00–10:30.

Julie was married to Ernesto P. Cabral for many years and had five children: Anita M. Hoffman, Sophia D. Hernandez, Stephanie McCabria, Pilar A. Cabral, and Joseph Julian Cabral.

She had 12 grandchildren: Chloe Q-Mia Pearson, Ian Jules Sotomayor, Ella A. Sotomayor, and Lourdes A. Sotomayor; Cara R. Cabral, Clarea Williams, Hannah Hernandez, Elijah Myers, and Izzabella Myers, two great grand kids, Santiago J. Solis and Haze F. Ford.  Five from daughter Courtney Harris: Hayley (Travis) Herman, Cedrick D. Harris, Connar J. Harris, Olyviah Harris, and Penelope Harris.

She was preceded in death by her son, Joseph J. Cabral; mother, Deloris R. Hachenberger; father, Margarito F. Mendoza; grandmother, Delphina (Cordova) Aqoitia; and sister, Sandra Dee Mendoza.

Memorial services will be at Noon Friday, July 31, 2026, at Lone Star Lake Community Building.