Category: Obituaries

Wayne Ernest Kanzig

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Memorial Services for Wayne E. Kanzig, 89, Eudora, will be 11:00 am, Tuesday, July 29, 2025, at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 3615 W 10th St, Lawrence. A Visitation will begin at 10:00 am.

Wayne passed away on the evening of July 14, 2025, doing what he loved most—fixing things in the shop on the family farm. Fittingly, he left this life in the very same space where his father, Johnny, passed 42 years earlier.

Wayne was born January 6, 1936, in Lawrence, Kansas, the only (and admittedly spoiled) son of John and Bessie Kanzig. Ornery, hardworking, and sharp as a tack, he graduated from Baldwin High School in 1956 and earned a bachelor’s degree in Geology from the University of Kansas in 1969. He grew up on the family farm, which his ancestors purchased in 1850 after immigrating from Switzerland by way of Ohio.

He served in the Coast Guard Reserves and later became a beloved science teacher in Olathe, Kansas. His unforgettable—and occasionally explosive—classroom experiments delighted his students (and sometimes rattled school administrators). Even after he left the classroom, he never stopped teaching, always eager to share knowledge with friends, family, and anyone lucky enough to know him.

Wayne also worked for decades as a heavy equipment operator with Operating Engineers Local 101, helping build major projects including Oak Park Mall and the Kansas Speedway in Kansas City, Kansas.

Devoted to the farm and to his parents throughout his life, Wayne raised his son Terry and daughter Susie there—both becoming his loyal farm hands. After Susie left for college, Wayne met Helen—the love of his life and the best partner and farm hand he could have asked for.

Wayne had four children: Christina (who passed away at age 3), Terrence (Terry), Patricia (Patsy/Patty), and Suzanne (Susie). After 16 years as a single father, he met Helen at Clearfield Church in Eudora. Together, they raised a second family: Lee, Kirschen, and Remmey. Wayne and Helen shared 37 devoted years of marriage and were active members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

He is survived by his wife, Helen Kanzig; sister, Roxie Hausman; children: Patty Allen (Tim), Susie Kanzig, Terry Kanzig (preceded in death by his wife Jan), Kirschen Minsky (preceded in death by her husband Mike), and Remmey Kanzig; grandchildren: Chip Allen, Libby Allen, Grace Murphy, Miles Murphy, Elly Stewart, Mack Stewart; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sister Greta Chubb; daughter Christina Kanzig; and son Lee Nelson.

Wayne also leaves behind a legendary sweet tooth. A double scoop of ice cream on a slice of pie was one of life’s great pleasures. Chocolate came in a close second.

May heaven be filled with sweets, tools that work perfectly, and fields ready to be harvested. You were a good man, deeply loved, and you will be missed more than words can say.

Memorial contributions may be made to Kansas Public Radio.

Mail checks to:

Kansas Public Radio

1120 W 11th St

Lawrence KS 66044

Or online; kansaspublicradio.org

Please mention Wayne Kanzig in the comment section.

 

Zoom the service at https://app.zoom.us/wc/96783664556/join?fromPWA=1

Webinar ID 96783664556

Passcode 072025

Kendra Lyn Vantuyl-Escalante

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The world has lost a loving and giving soul. Kendra Lyn Vantuyl-Escalante passed away peacefully at her home in the early hours of July 14th, 2025. Kendra was born in Lawrence, KS, on March 1st, 1995, to Kristen Vantuyl (Lawrence, KS) and Rick Sheley (St. George, Utah). She was the first grandchild of Barbara Vantuyl (Lawrence, KS) and the first great-grandchild of Evelyn Burk (deceased). She spent her early years under the same roof with three generations of women, making her the fourth generation.

Kendra embraced one of her most cherished roles when she became a big sister, first in 2004, when Kristin and Martin Madorin (Cedar, KS) welcomed Kamdin Madorin (Los Angeles, CA), and again in 2007 with the birth of Makayla Madorin (Lawrence, KS). In 2013, she graduated from Lawrence High School and moved to St. George, Utah, to study nursing at Dixie State University with the support of her father Rick. She was an accomplished cello player, earning a seat in the Dixie State Symphony Orchestra.

She moved back to Kansas and soon met her husband, Christopher Escalante. Christopher took her on their first date on February 29th, 2020, on the eve of her birthday. The love and romance were instantaneous, and they married on July 14th, 2020. Kendra was a loving and devoted wife. Her hobbies included creating art projects, playing music, and making a life full of love with Christopher and her family. She was dedicated to her work as a CNA. An incredible caregiver, she worked at Bella Terra in Utah, Pioneer Ridge in Lawrence, KS, and Brewster Place in Topeka, KS.

Chronic illness sadly plagued her final years. She fought valiantly until the very end. Her life, though far too short, will continue to inspire and comfort all who were blessed to know her.

Kendra is survived by her half-siblings: Andrea Philips, Craig Sheley, Chelsea Roth, Abigail Sheley, Kamdin Madorin, Makayla Madorin, and Kelby Sheley. She had two stepdaughters, Jocelyn and Lily Escalante, and is also survived by her father- and mother-in-law, Robert and Brenda Escalante (Topeka, KS).

Other surviving family includes her great-uncles Randy and Scott (Kansas City, MO), her great-uncle Mike Vantuyl (Topeka, KS), her great-aunt Veda Vantuyl (Plano, TX), her aunt Janice Zishka (Liberty, MO), her uncle Danny Vantuyl (Lawrence, KS), and her cousins Tanner, Cali, Jace, and Robbie. Her surviving grandparents are Barbara Vantuyl, and Edgar and Joan Marie Sheley of Corning, KS.

She was preceded in death by her great-grandmother Evelyn Burk, grandfather Daniel Vantuyl, her aunt Lori Vantuyl, and her aunt Pam Aversano.

Rumsey-Yost will host a visitation on Friday, August 1, 2025, from 6:00 to 7:00 PM, with the memorial service on Saturday, August 2, 2025, at 10:30 AM.

Livestream services at https://view.oneroomstreaming.com/index.php?data=MTc1Mzk3Nzg1MTM3NDA2OSZvbmVyb29tLWFkbWluJmNvcHlfbGluaw==

Davaughn James Pellis

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Davaughn James Pellis passed away on Wednesday, July 9, 2025

He was born April 28, 1994, in Lawrence, Kansas. He was the son of James Earl Pellis, Lisa Lynn Lathrom and Stephen L. Webb Sr.

He graduated from Lawrence High School and was a member of the Lawrence High School Marching Lions Band.

Davaughn had many brothers and sisters, just to name a few, Mikel Jeromy Lee Wray, Lacie (Wray) Spiker, Nina Simone Atkins, Toy Harrison, Stephen Webb II, Bria Cruse, Robert Moore, Jamaine Williams, Shay Peller, Christopher Needham and Jaiden Pellis, Allen Harrison, Vinnie Brooks, Trey Dudley, Jamal Pellis, James Peller Jr., Audrina Pellis, Aubrey Pellis, Jameise Needum, Gabrielle Davenport, Shenita Townsend, Terrance Carter.

Other relatives include his Niece, Latalya Spiker, Nephews, Jeromy Cumpton, Rylan Patterson and Jordon Spiker.

Grandfathers, Jerry Lathrom, Sidney Gonce Sr, Willie Webb and James Phillips.

Grandmothers Carol (Nightingale) Gonce, Anne MiMi Nickson and Maggie Bennett

Aunts and Uncles, Lorri (Lathrom) Coleman, lynda Bennett-Newson, Juanita Croft, Patricia Bradberry, Luconya Williams, Nikki Phillips, Sherelia Webb Bowers, Larry Peller, Fredrick Bennett.

First Cousins, Danielle Coleman, Kevin Coleman II, Kionna Coleman, Zackiyah Sanders and many more.

A visitation will take place Saturday July 19, 2025 at 12 noon and Funeral services will follow at 1:00p.m. at Rumsey-Yost Funeral Home, 601 Indiana Street, Lawrence, Kansas 66044.

Celebration of Life will be held after services. Details will be available at the service.

 

John Ward Hillebert, III

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John Ward Hillebert, III, 69, of Eudora passed away Thursday, July 10, 2025, at his home.

He was born March 25, 1956, in Gardner, Kansas, the son of Joseph Ward Hillebert, Sr. and Lois Lavern (Minor) Hillebert.  John was a jack of all trades working in carpentry, welding and construction.

He married Sherry (Vaughn) Hoard in 2002.  She survives.  Other survivors include his children, Christina Hoard, Guthrie  Hoard, Kristi Brautman; his grandchildren, Andrew and Zachary  Brautman; his siblings, Marilyn Smardo and Vickie Hillebert; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by parents and his siblings Danny Hillebert, Saddie Coon, Bruce French, Janie Hillebert, Joan Ellis, Joe Hillebert, and Roy Hillebert.

Cremation is planned and a Celebration of Life will be held from 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. Thursday, July 17, 2025 at Eudora Parks & Recreation Center, 1630 Elm Street, Eudora.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association, 5800 Foxridge Dr, Mission, KS 66202.

Beverly Jean Nix Spring

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Beverly Jean Nix Spring passed away on July 8th, 2025, at the ripe old age of 90. She was a beloved mother to Janet Schmidt (Bill Schmidt) and Carol Watgen (Tom Watgen); grandmother to Philip Schmidt (Christen), Stephanie Hein, Kayla and Steven Thawnghmung; great-grandmother to Bella Thawnghmung, Delphine, Yann, and Remy Schmidt, and Jack, Sadie, and Silas Hein; and friend to many. Despite enduring dementia, she continued to live a life of kindness and grace; each morning, upon awakening, she asked the Lord, “How can I be of service today?” Whether comforting a recent widow or giving her famous hugs, she met each day as an opportunity to love others.
She was born in Bartlesville, Oklahoma, on January 28th, 1935, to Maywood and Herschel Nix. When her brother, Steve, joined the family, she decided it was her job to take care of him. They moved to Wichita, where Mom graduated from Wichita East High School in 1953, then earned a Bachelor’s degree in Botany and Bacteriology from Wichita State University in 1957, graduating Cum Laude. Not bad for a woman during an era when women in scientific fields were a rarity! Beverly loved science. She claimed that scientific discoveries and knowledge only proved the presence of God. Much like Francis Collins, in his book The Language of God, she claimed it took more faith to believe creation was a random event than to believe in a divine creator. God is the source of all life. An avid environmentalist, she taught us the importance of recycling and led school field trips for elementary children at nearby lakes and wetlands. She returned to work once Carol was in high school and spent the remainder of her career at the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, where she worked in TB and Mycology.
One day, while still in college, as she rushed down the steps after church, she caught the eye of Donald Spring, and from that moment, they were inseparable. Married on December 23rd, 1956, their example of respect and kindness toward one another created an ideal childhood for Janet and Carol. In 1970, the family moved to Topeka and joined First Baptist Church, where they were active in the Faithbuilders Sunday School and sang with the Chancel Choir for 30 years. She sewed our clothes, braided rugs (the only time we ever heard her swear–but only with words like “Dagnabit!”), and baked her famous bread and cinnamon rolls. Carol learned her love of baking from Mom. Mom also took up running because of Janet’s accomplishments in track and cross-country, even running a 10k road race with Jan in 1983. Mom became a fixture in the area as she jogged with our dog, Molly, regularly, and still picked up aluminum cans to recycle.
They eventually moved to Brandon Woods in Lawrence. Immediately, Beverly jumped into helping others as a member of the Resident’s Council and President of the Welcoming Committee. Her daily mission was to be of service to others. After Dad died in 2016, her focus moved to those who had also lost a spouse. As a member of First Baptist Church, she enjoyed attending the early service until she could no longer participate.
Even in the final week, she kissed the hands that cared for her, and her eyes lit up with a spark of recognition for her loved ones. We want to express our sincere gratitude to all the staff at Brandon Woods and Bridge Haven. You loved our parents. As Dad lay dying in 2016, and Beverly was passing this week, you shared our tears, listened to our stories, and comforted us as we said goodbye. We are also grateful for the amazing nurses, social workers, music therapists, and chaplain from Ascend Hospice. Thank you for treating the dying with such respect and dignity. She is at peace, and we joyfully await our reunion in heaven with our Lord.

Daniel LeRoy “Dan” Hadl

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Daniel LeRoy “Dan” Hadl, 69, of Lawrence, passed away Tuesday, July 8, 2025 at LMH surrounded by his loved ones.

Dan was born February 17, 1956, in Lawrence, Kansas to Otto LeRoy Hadl and Esther A. (Montgomery) Hadl Miller.

He graduated from Lawrence High School in 1974.

He retired from the Ammunition plant in DeSoto Kansas,  later becoming the owner and operator of his own business the Home Doctor.

Survivors include his sons Dustin Hadl,  Jasen Hadl and significant other Kendall Wallace and daughter Kayla Hadl.  Grandchildren, Riley Hadl, Mason Hadl, Bella Hadl, Chasity Hadl, Jaden Hadl, Tatum Wallace, Dominic Parton,  Alea Parton, Zarius Reed, Cymphonique Reed, and Ivyana Reed.  Sister Linda and Dale Stanwix, and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, step father, Richard Miller and brother Jim Hadl.

Dan had an incredible love for fishing. With his rod in one hand and his loyal dog by his side, Snickers wasn’t just a pet, but a constant companion—always ready for the next adventure, never far from his side. He also loved to always help others, enjoyed carpentry, gardening, and caring for his fish, all of which brought him peace and joy in everyday life.

Graveside services will be 10:00 am Saturday, July 26, 2025, at Memorial Park Cemetery, Lawrence.  To leave a message for Dan’s family, please visit www.Rumsey-Yost.com.

Olivia Mae Hassell

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A celebration of life for Olivia Mae Hassell, 21, of Lawrence, will be on Friday the 11th from 5-7 pm at Cider Gallery.

Olivia Mae Hassell passed away July 7th, 2025 in Lawrence, Kansas. She was born on January 30th, 2004 to parents Sarah Stauffer-Soderling and Jed Hassell in Fort Bragg, California.

Throughout her life on this plane of existence, she called the Mendocino coast of California and Lawrence, Kansas her homes. Human homes included Paxton Learned, the love of her life and a source of steadfast comfort, and Mikko Soderling, her younger sister and best friend.

Olivia’s journey was full of conviction and deep empathy. Her natural artistic ability in watercolor and piano & voice is a gift. Her laughter, infectious. Her humor, bizarre and poignant.  She rescued many cats and stood up for those she believed deserved justice.

Olivia lives on in the hearts of many. Her mom and dad, Paxton, sisters Mikko, Naomi, and Trenna Soderling, Grammy and Papa Stauffer (Sharon and Mike Stauffer), Stepdad Mike (James Soderling), Aunt Jen Jen (Jennifer Stauffer), Uncle Aani and Auntie Ia-Ia (Aaron Stauffer and Iana Porter), and cousins Amira Porter-Stauffer, Emma, Samuel, and Charlotte Zid; and paternal family, Grandpa Will and Aunt Naka Hassell will hold her in their hearts forever.

If you knew her, love those who are close to you fiercely. Express love often. Remember her laugh.

Jeanne Frances (Grisnik) Henning

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Ms. Jeanne (Grisnik) Henning died Tuesday, July 8, 2025, at Pioneer Ridge Assisted Living in Lawrence, Kansas, surrounded by her loving family.

Jeanne was born in October of 1954, in Kansas City, Kansas, the daughter of Otto and Martina Grisnik. She is survived by her uncle and aunt, Bob & Jeanne Bradwell, her brother, John Grisnik; her brother-in-law and sister, Jim & Beth Hoenscheidt (niece Kathleen Hoenscheidt); and her brother-in-law, Nader Abed (nephew Michael Abed and niece Marie Abed). She is also survived by her four children with Harold Henning (divorced): Christian Henning, Benjamin Henning, Leanna Henning (Jock Condon; grandchild Kade Condon), and Melody Henning (Eric Havens; grandchildren Anthony Johanning, Izzy Havens, and Alek Madeira).

Jeanne was a lifelong resident of Kansas City, Kansas, where she attended St. Peter’s Cathedral and Bishop Ward High School. She cherished memories of riding bikes in the neighborhood and the many lifelong friends she made there.  Her first jobs were at Bethany Medical Center and Fritz’s Restaurant, where she developed an interest in medicine and service. She received her associate’s degree from the Wesley School of Nursing in Wichita and her bachelor’s degree from the KU School of Nursing, all while supporting her four children.

She loved singing and dancing in local Croatian folk groups throughout her life, especially with her beloved sister, Jan Grisnik-Abed, who passed in 1999. The costumes, music, and the community brought her immense joy, and she continued this tradition for many years following. She kept paintings of Strawberry Hill by Marijana Grisnik, displayed carefully around her home, alongside many relics of times past — all sources of pride, comfort, and value.

As a joyful presence in the communities where she worked and lived, Jeanne attended neighborhood barbecues and festivities, sharing her Croatian heritage and love of baking povitica with friends and family. She planted flowers and grew tomatoes every year, and enjoyed canning and making jelly in her retirement. She shared the fruits of her labor generously with those who delighted in them and did so with unmatched elegance and class, to say nothing of her beauty.

She was a “yard lady” and a “cat lady,” who loved taking care of her environment and all of the animals she fostered. She was especially devoted to nurturing in times of great need, and she endured every hardship to provide care and support for those she loved. She was patient and particular about every detail. From bathing to dressing, in the many gifts she would bestow upon her children and family for holidays, birthdays, and other special occasions, Jeanne relished the opportunity to express her love through her actions and gifts.

Jeanne was a pediatric nurse for over 40 years, nurturing children and babies with her knowledge, intention, and loving care at KU Medical Center, Children’s Mercy Hospital, and Overland Park Regional Medical Center. The number of lives impacted through her vocation cannot be counted. She was an intellectual in writing, contributing news articles, photographs, and pieces for pediatric manuals and texts. She was an expert in the fields of gastroenterology, wound care, nutrition, and neonatal care. She was inspired by the professionals she worked with and went to great lengths to ensure the dignity and honor of those less fortunate.

Her artistry and craftwork were interwoven into everything she did. She donned fur coats and coordinated her attire to the amazement and admiration of everyone. She knew her worth and value in the world. Her sense of humor provided levity during times of injustice and personal pain. She maintained her integrity and independence, always going her own way.

Jeanne’s endless love, witty charm, unique personality, and resilient spirit will be deeply missed and forever honored by all who knew her.

A visitation will take place from 6:00 pm-7:00 pm on Thursday, July 10, 2025, at Rumsey-Yost Funeral Home, Lawrence, KS. Funeral services will take place the following day at 10:00 am, July 11th, 2025, also at Rumsey-Yost Funeral Home. Burial will take place at 1:00 pm at Chapel Hill Cemetery, Kansas City, Kansas.

Larry G. Warner

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Larry G. Warner, 85, of Lawrence, passed away Tuesday, July 1, 2025, at Lawrence Presbyterian Manor surrounded by his family.

He was born August 16, 1939, in Hamlin, Texas, the son of Charles Leslie and Pansy Rue (Sanders) Warner.

Larry served in the Kansas National Guard and attended Kansas State University in Manhattan and Marymount College of Kansas in Salina, earning his bachelor’s degree in business administration.  Larry retired as an electrical engineer with KP&L (Westar).

In 1965, he married Janice Rose Haflich at the Methodist church in Manhattan.  Together they briefly lived in Norman, Oklahoma and Manhattan, Kansas.  In 1980, they made their home in Salina, Kansas where they lived for over 40 years before moving to Lawrence in 2021.

Survivors include his wife, Janice; son, Robert “Bob” (Sandy) Warner, of Lawrence; ten grandchildren: Adara, Peyton, Nicole, Cameron, Lizzy, Kenny, Sadie and Daniel; and five great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by two sons, David and Barry Warner, a daughter, Donna Scott, two brothers, Chuck Warner and Mark Burnett, and his parents.

A Memorial Service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, August 3, 2025 at the Lawrence Presbyterian Manor Chapel, 1429 Kasold Dr, Lawrence, KS 66049.