Author: RumseyYost

Larry Lea Mathews

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Services for Larry L. Mathews, 86, of Lecompton, will be held at 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, June 24, 2025, at Lecompton United Methodist Church.  Burial will take place immediately following in Maple Grove Cemetery.  Mr. Mathews died Saturday, June 14, 2025, at Brookdale Care Center of Topeka, Kansas.

Larry was born November 2, 1938, in Manhattan, Kansas, the son of Cornelius (C.C.) and Mary Hayes Mathews.  He graduated from Lecompton High School in 1956 and remained in Lecompton where he continued to work on the family farm.  Larry attended Emporia State University for one year prior to joining the United States Army in 1961 where he was deployed to Frankfurt, Germany.

After an honorable discharge from the Army, Larry soon secured a position as a salesman for Townley Hardware Company in Kansas City, Missouri.  Working for Townley provided him the skills to take over Mathews Hardware, Perry, Kansas which was opened by his parents in 1955. Mathews Hardware served the community from approximately 1955 until the business was closed in 1990.

Larry began his second career as an over-the-road truck driver for various companies and eventually as an independent driver.  Later he also operated a pilot car service.

He had a passion for antique steam engines and tractors, purchasing and having them refurbished where he took them to tractor and threshing events.

Larry is survived by his children Beth Mathews (Perry), Chris Nichols (Lecompton), and Jeff Mathews (Mayetta), as well as four grandchildren and four great grandchildren.  He is also survived by his sister, Carolyn Stewart (Hartford, Connecticut) and former wife, Rhonda (Zieammerman) Miller (Basehor).

Larry was pre-deceased by his parents C.C. and Mary Mathews, his wife Sharon Cole, his wife Brenda Harrelson, his son John Mathews, and brother George Mathews.

Visitation will take place from 5:00-7:00 p.m. on Monday, June 23, 2025, at the Rumsey-Yost Funeral Home, 601 Indianna Street, Lawrence, Kansas, 66044. Funeral services will take place the following day, Tuesday, June 24, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at the Lecompton United Methodist Church, 402 Elmore Street, Lecompton, Kansas 66050.  Burial will follow at Maple Grove Cemetery in Lecompton.

The family suggests memorial contributions to Meriden Antique Engine and Threshers or the Lecompton Historical Society sent in care of Rumsey-Yost Funeral home, PO Box 1260 Lawrence, Kansas 66044.

 

Howard LaVerne Shuck

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Shuck – Howard LaVerne, 84, was born September 6, 1940 to Lloyd Ellsworth and Lillian Christine (Brohammer) Shuck in Douglas Co. KS. He peacefully exchanged time for eternity at his home, surrounded by family, as the sun was setting on Father’s Day June 15, 2025, making his sojourn in this life 84 years, 9 months and 9 days.

He answered the call of his Savior and was baptized on October 23, 1956 and was a member of the Old German Baptist Church. He served his time as a Conscientious Objector in the Emergency Ward at Miami Valley Hospital, Dayton OH, drawing from his experiences there throughout his life. He was united in Holy Matrimony August 2nd 1963 to JoAnne Oyler at the home of her parents, near Modesto CA, sharing the joys and sorrows of life together for over 61 years. To this union were born 4 children, Michael, Jennifer, Miles and Carrie. Dad was anointed along with mother on September 22, 2024, receiving much comfort.

Howard was preceded in death by his parents, parents-in-law Walter Francisco and Esther Elizabeth (Wise) Oyler, his brother Warren (Elsie) Shuck and sister Eva (Merlin) Barton, grandson Avery John Shuck and great-grandson Elliot Gideon Jamison.

He is survived by his dear companion; children: Michael (Diane) Shuck, Jennifer (Dennis) Jamison, Miles (Lynette) Shuck, Carrie Jamison and Doug Jamison, 14 Grandchildren and 16 Great-Grandchildren.

Dad grew up on a dairy farm and spent his life working with farmers and farm equipment. He valued the support and loyalty of customers and employees throughout the years. He took responsibility of setting a good example, seriously and openly sharing his cares, concerns and convictions. As dad patiently faced the affliction of cancer, he thoroughly enjoyed the many visitors and phone calls. We trust our loss is his eternal gain. Job 1:21 … the LORD gave, and the LORD hath taken away; blessed be the name of the LORD.

Arrangements:

Lord Willing, a visitation will be held at the home on Friday, June 20, 2025 from 3-5 and 6-8pm. The funeral service will be conducted by the brethren at 10am Saturday June 21, 2025 at the Willow Springs meetinghouse followed by burial service at Pleasant Hill Cemetery and a meal in the meetinghouse basement.

Rob Blank

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An Afternoon of Precious Love

Celebrate the life of Rob Blank from 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday, July 20 at Liberty Hall, 644 Massachusetts St. in downtown Lawrence. Open mic begins at 2 p.m.
Email photos for a slideshow to Tom Harper at tomharper@stephensre.com.

Rob Blank, a dear and known Lawrence citizen who was anything but “blank”, died on January 8, 2025.

In his 65 humble, yet exciting years (born 9/23/59), Rob must have converted thousands of tabula rasas into artwork that could have served as inspiration to Vincent Van Gough. Rob autographed many of his paintings and poems with his signature statement, “Precious Love Rob” and affectionately became known within his community as “Peace Man” and “Precious Love”.

Not unlike Van Gogh, Rob’s mental health differences produced great challenges, but he successfully lived with some support systems in the heart of the city that he so deeply loved.

Lawrence locals may have bumped into him while window shopping on Mass street, they may have coincidentally searched for watercolors or acrylics with him at the local art store, they’ve possibly exchanged conversation with him over a cup of coffee at La Prima Tazza, and chances are high that if they have been in Lawrence long enough, they have probably returned the peace sign to the local legend. Wherever it was that Rob was encountered, It was likely a memorable and lasting impression, because that was Rob; an impressionist on blank canvas’s. Lawrence’s Peace Man, will be sorely missed.

Rob’s survivors include his sister, Sheri Blank, his brother and sister-in law Randy and Betty Blank, and his nieces Kimberly Carter, Madelyn Blank, and Julia Blank.

Rob was preceded in death by his father Robert “Bob” Blank (of Hixon Studios) and his mother, Elaine Blank.

In appreciation of the community that served him and in lieu of flowers, the family is asking for donations to go to Meals on Wheels www.midlandcare.org and Bert Nash Center: https://www.bertnash.org/support

Debra Marie Slifer

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Graveside services for Debra Marie Slifer 61, Oskaloosa, will be 10 am, Friday, June 20, 2025, at Clinton Cemetery.

Debra passed away on June 14th, 2025 at home surrounded by family. She was born in 1964 to Helen Brown and Billie Beerbower in Lawrence, Kansas.

Debra had a beautiful smile and big heart that left a lasting impression on everyone who knew her. She will be remembered for her generous spirit, and the way she made everyone feel seen and loved. She loved crocheting, gardening, repurposing, sunflowers, pigs, her 5 dogs, and the Kansas City Chiefs.

At the age of 14, Debra met the love of her life, Johnny Slifer and they had 4 boys. Debra was a devoted mother, grandmother, and great grandmother. Her love for her family knew no bounds and she found great joy in being surrounded by her family and friends.

She is preceded in death by her father Billie Beerbower, her brothers Danny Beerbower and Larry Beerbower.

She is survived by her husband, Johnny Slifer; her mother, Helen Evans; her sons, Chauncey (Samantha Seals) Slifer, David (Amy) Slifer, Jesse (Laticia) Slifer, and Joseph (Ashley) Slifer; her grandchildren, Wesley (Lily), Emily, Casidi, Chance, Summer (Qualls), Dylan, Katelyn, Austin, Dakoda, Hannah, Samantha, and Devin; 5 great grandchildren; brothers, Billie Beerbower Jr., Chester (Lisa) Beerbower, Gary (Jennifer) Beerbower; many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, and many friends.

Debra lived her life with kindness, compassion, and love. She would do anything for family and friends. She was loved by so many and will be greatly missed.

Jean Marie Moneymaker

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Jean Marie Moneymaker (née Jones), a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend, passed away peacefully on June 11, 2025, in Lawrence, Kansas, just shy of her 79th birthday. She was born on June 17, 1946, in Gettysburg, South Dakota, to Sylvia Anderson Smith and Eugene Jones.  Jean was the oldest of seven children, and she spent her lifetime cherishing her role as the big sister.

Jean’s life was marked by her unwavering kindness and generosity, her infectious laughter, and her deep devotion to her family. Her love for God and her family were central to her life. Family gatherings were incredibly important to her, and for many years she was the enthusiastic organizer of memorable holiday dinners, lively camping trips, and fun-filled cookouts.

A talented self-taught woodworker, Jean, alongside her beloved husband of over 50 years, Don, spent years lovingly refurbishing their home in Atchison, Kansas. Later, they poured their hearts into transforming their dream farmhouse on the Gasconade River into a cherished retreat. It was at this farmhouse that countless treasured memories were made for their children, grandchildren, and extended family. Jean was a pillar of strength and a source of endless support for those she loved.

In recent years, she lived in Lawrence, Kansas near three of her grandchildren, and enjoyed being a part of their day to day lives, enjoying their band recitals, soccer games, and family movie nights.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Donald R. Moneymaker, her sister Nancy Coldiron, her sister Sharon Poder, her brother Delbert Smith, her sister Yvonne Light and her cherished grandson, Nicholas Moneymaker.

She is survived by her son Andy Moneymaker (Christy) of Warsaw, MO, her daughter Elizabeth Moneymaker (Brenda) of St. Petersburg, FL, her son David Moneymaker of Lawrence, KS,  brother Kenneth Smith (Jeanne) of Rolla, her sister Ruth Smith of Rolla her granddaughter Katie Ciurej (Alex) of Detroit, MI, grandson Jason Moneymaker of Springfield, MO, grandson Elijah Moneymaker of Lawrence, KS, grandson Miles Moneymaker of Lawrence, KS, and grandson Leo Moneymaker of Lawrence, KS.  Her memory will be forever treasured by her surviving family and friends. Jean’s legacy of love and compassion will continue to live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know her.

A memorial service will be held on June 17, 2025 at Null & Sons Funeral Home, 1010 Kings Highway, Rolla, MO 65401.  Visitation at 1 p.m. with service at 2 p.m.

Ricky Eugene Jenkins (Rick)

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Ricky Eugene Jenkins (Rick), age 60, of McLouth, KS, passed away on June 8, 2025, at 12:01 PM at Providence Medical Center in Kansas City, Kansas after a courageous battle with chronic illness.

Rick was born on May 23, 1965, at Lawrence Memorial Hospital in Lawrence, Kansas, to James Eugene Jenkins and Eva Ruth Bryant.

Rick found great joy and purpose in his work as a heavy machine operator, where he occassionally uncovered fascinating pieces of history while digging—like old medicine bottles—that sparked his curiosity. He was passionate about restoring cars, working on guns, enjoying classic Westerns, and creating magical moments for those he loved.

He was preceded in death by his father, James Eugene Jenkins, and his beloved grandparents, Paul Cleveland Jenkins Sr. and Carrie Katherine Jenkins (Rogers), Francis Eugene Bryant and Ruth Marie Bryant (Zimmerli).

Rick is survived by his devoted mother, Eva Ruth Nichols (Bryant) and Stepfather, Charles Nichols of Ozawkie, KS; two sisters, Kelly Jenkins and Cheryl Sloan (Jenkins), both of Lawrence, KS; Niece, Jessica McMillin of Lawrence, KS; Stepmother, Rochelle Jenkins (Burgett) of Edmond, OK; one son, Dustin Weeks of McLouth, KS; and one daughter Misti Scheib (Jenkins) and her husband Hunter of Owasso, OK; and two treasured grandchildren, Everick and Caelan Scheib, also of Owasso, OK.

A gentle soul, Rick’s heart overflowed with tenderness for life’s simple and profound beauties. He cherished sunsets and sunrises, the calm of lakes, and the shelter of trees. He was known for his kindness, often taking in stray animals and giving them a loving home. Rick created special memories for his children—building a basketball court that he transformed into an ice rink during winter, carving forts into cedar trees, and digging igloos in the freezing cold.

Though Rick was soft-spoken, his actions spoke volumes. Every fireworks show he hosted, every Christmas gift he worked tirelessly to provide, and every call he answered to help friends and family with a broken-down car were testaments to his boundless love and unwavering presence.

Despite the hardships life brought, Rick’s spirit remained unbroken. He was a true example of resilience, generosity, and selflessness.

Rick’s love and light will continue to shine in the hearts of all who knew him. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

In accordance with his wishes, no public services will be held. To honor his memory, the family invites those who wish to pay tribute to consider memorial donations to causes close to his heart: the Leavenworth County Humane Society (lchsinc.org) to celebrate his love for animals or the NRA Foundation (nrafoundation.org/donate) in recognition of his passion for firearms and the Second Amendment.

Rest in peace, Rick. Your legacy of love, joy, and quiet strength lives on.

Justin Lee Hermreck

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Justin Lee Hermreck, 43, passed away from medical complications on Tuesday, June 3, 2025. He is survived by his parents, Dan and Nancy Hermreck, his twin sister Lane Miller (Trey), niece Lowen Miller, nephews Calvin and Benton Miller, cat Olla Belle and best friends Mike, Nick and Bryan. He was dearly loved and will be missed.

There will be a celebration of Justin’s life on Sunday, June 15, 2025 beginning at 2 pm at 1152 E. 1000 Rd, Lawrence, KS 66047.

Mariele (Schiller) Berthold

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Our dear mother, Mariele Berthold, sadly passed away peacefully on June 5, 2025 at the age of 91. She was a wonderful matriarch who was always there when we needed her, offering support, wisdom, and love in abundance.

She was born on July 29, 1933 in Kirchberg im Wald, Germany to Katrina and Otto Schiller. Meeting her future husband, Goetz Berthold, in Kirchberg through teen soccer matches and then again after the war, they had a years-long cross-oceanic courting wherein they married and emigrated to Lawrence Kansas in 1958.
Known as Oma to her family and friends, she began her career as homemaker and hobbyist seamstress in Lawrence and added mothership in 1959 with the birth of her son Gert and then again in 1964 with the birth of Roland. She gradually became the matriarch of her family and siblings spanning continents, doling out her loving and caring along with the occasional candid admonishment for improvement. She couldn’t help but pass that forward to others as she loved people and loved being with each person she crossed paths with.
Mariele and Goetz help start the St. Johns Oktoberfest over 25 years ago. From working in the kitchen, providing German recipes, participating in planning and promotion, and then later in Oma oversight, she and Goetz have been involved actively since the start. With the passing of her beloved husband in 2020 along with her limited mobility, Oma deferred oversight but instead enjoyed celebrity participation at the Oktoberfest, where she passed forward her love and accolades.
Mariele is preceded in death by her parents and all her siblings, Kethl Maier and Pepi Prinz.
Oma is survived by her 2 sons and their spouses, Gert and Anne Berthold and Roland and Sherri Berthold, 9 grandchildren, 7-great grandchildren, her nieces and nephews in Germany, and the vast Mariele network whom she all dearly loved.
Funeral Mass will be 11 am, Tuesday, June 17, 2025, at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church 1234 Kentucky St, Lawrence, KS 66044. A Visitation will start at 10am until service time.

 

Carolyn Ann Cummins

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Carolyn Ann Cummins, 60, was a resident of Lawrence, KS. She left her earthly home to become an angel at the right hand of God on June 4, 2025. She was born in Waynesville, Missouri to Wanda and Charles Avery.

Carolyn graduated from Fort Scott Community College with an Associates in Registered Nursing. She enjoyed camping at the lake, cruising the world and trips to Branson, Missouri which all she did with her family. Her favorite places to visit were Hawaii and Cabo. She enjoyed spoiling her children, pets and grandchildren.

She is preceded in death by her younger brother James Bennie, father Charles, mother Wanda and 2 grandchildren (Ana’Lou and Hardin). She is survived by her husband (Peter), 2 older brothers (Bill and Charles), her 5 children and their spouses (Joshua and wife Ashley, Doris and husband Henry, Trenton and fiancé Kendra, Louise and husband Matt Day and Matthew) and her surviving grandchildren (Urijah, Salvatore, Kaitlyn, Zoe, Maly’Bou and there is one on the way).

Carolyn was a daughter, sister, mother and nurse. She took care of those she loved and all who were in need. Her calling from God was to be a nurturer by being an amazing mother, healthcare worker and caregiver as her earthly purpose. Romans 12:1 says “Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.”

Funeral services will be held Monday June 16, 2025 at Rumsey-Yost Funeral Home in Lawrence, Ks at Noon. A visitation will be starting at 11am.  Graveside will follow at Oak Hill Cemetery.