Category: Obituaries

Marilee P. Hurst

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Marilee Roper Parrish Hurst, 88, of Lawrence, Kansas, passed away on September 23, 2025 surrounded by family.

Born in Memphis, Tennessee, and raised in Oklahoma City, Marilee attended Classen High School and then in 1958 graduated from Oklahoma University and married Robert “Bob” Hurst. They settled in the Kansas City area to raise their family. She was a schoolteacher, an outdoor leader for Girl Scouts, and worked tirelessly at self-improvement. In recent years, Marilee moved to Lawrence to be closer to her daughter.

Marilee was a lifelong tennis player who was known for her gracious competitiveness, always complimenting her opponents. After a car wreck in her late 70s robbed her of the ability to play, she expressed her competitive spirit through board games, puzzle competitions with her grandson and cheering her favorite tennis players on television. She was active all her life, taking pride in describing her youthful self as a “tomboy”, riding and showing horses, climbing trees, skiing and at age 60, working at Yellowstone National Park for a summer.

Her belief in the good in people, her sense of humor as well as her optimism and open heart left a lasting impression on everyone she met.

She is survived by her children: Lauren, Kelley and Elinor; four grandchildren, her sister Laura Midgley, and her beloved cat Addie Lou. She was preceded in death by her husband, Bob; her mother, Mary Frances Parrish Wilson, her father Elbert Lee Roper, Jr; and her sister Josephine Hale.

Marilee will be remembered for her unmatched gift of gab, her devotion to her family, lifelong friends and Tri-Delta sisters, her enthusiastic pride in her children and her delight in her Kansas grandchildren, Miles Dean and Walter Hurst. In her last months, she was cared for by her daughter, her friend Lori Pearson, and the kind attentions of the amazing hospice staff of Douglas County Visiting Nurses Association: Chris, Kevin, Joy, Sherri, Nonie, Alicia and Teri. These caring people loved and comforted her and supported her family during her final days.

A visitation will be held at Rumsey-Yost Funeral Home, Lawrence, KS on October 4th from 2-4 p.m. followed by a private interment at Fairlawn Cemetery, Oklahoma City.  In lieu of flowers, Marilee’s family would be honored if you considered a gift in her memory to Audubon of Kansas audubonofkansas.org or to the National Parks Foundation.

 

Supan (Inpata) Pratt

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Graveside Services for Supan (Inpata) Pratt, 83, of Lawrence, will be at 11 a.m. Thursday, October 2, 2025, at Memorial Park Cemetery.

Supan was born August 20, 1942 in Nan, Thailand, the daughter of Sone Inpata and Jan Wong Dondawn Chai Inpata.

Supan was driven in life by her faith, spending much of her time as a missionary to bring Christianity to her native Thailand. Her strength and courage to overcome hardships in her life can be attributed to her unwavering devotion to God.

She is survived by her sons, Michael Pratt (Sandy) and Daniel Dolar (Caitlyn), her daughter, Ann Dey, as well as her sisters and brother and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Jesus loves you.

John M. Moon

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John M. Moon, 71, of Lawrence, Kansas, passed away on September 18, 2025. Born on September 15, 1954, in Evanston, Illinois, John spent his formative years in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

He was a devoted husband to Sonia and a loving father to Sarah and Ben. Known for his unwavering patience, generosity, and compassion, John dedicated his life to serving others.

John spent 40 years with the Department of Veterans Affairs, where he was admired for his commitment to veterans, his skill in mediation, and his mentorship of colleagues. Prior to that, he served four years in the United States Air Force. His sense of duty continued throughout his life—first as a police officer, then as a volunteer Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA), where he championed the rights of children in the court system. He also served on the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT), trained to assist in times of crisis.

John’s lifelong devotion to service earned him the affectionate nickname “The Rev.” Despite his many responsibilities, he always made time for his family and passions.

Though he preferred to stay out of the spotlight, John’s life deserves to be celebrated. He brought joy and connection to those around him—whether through adventures, playful toys, thoughtful conversations, or well-timed jokes. His warm and welcoming spirit made everyone feel seen and loved. He gave freely of his time and talents, always putting others first.

John’s adventurous soul was evident in his hobbies. He loved hiking, camping, skiing, and traveling. He was passionate about sailing and studied at the Wooden Boat School in Maine, later working on several wooden boats. He found peace in birdwatching and being immersed in nature.

John is survived by his wife, Sonia Moon of Lawrence, KS; daughter Sarah and her husband Rick Powers; son John (Ben) and his wife Megan Moon; four stepsons: Lalo and his wife Lacey Cazares; Jorge and his wife Aimee Cazares; Sergio Cazares; and Emmanuel and his wife McKenzie Cazares; nine beautiful grandchildren; his mother, Marilyn Moon; sister Nancy and her husband Rick Killmer; as well as many dear friends and extended family members who will miss him dearly.

He was preceded in death by his first wife, Ruth Moon, and his father, John F. Moon.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, September 26, 2025, at 2pm at First Christian Church, 1000 Kentucky Street, Lawrence, KS 66044. Graveside services with military honors will follow at approximately 3pm at Oak Hill Cemetery, 1605 Oak Hill Ave, Lawrence, KS 66044. A reception will be held at approximately 4pm at First Christian Church.

In tribute to John’s proud Scottish heritage and his love of comfort and connection, guests are invited to wear plaid or flannel to the service

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions to one of the following organizations:

ALS Association at  www.als.org/?form=general&s_src=donatebutton

Paralyzed Veterans of America at  https://secure.pva.org/pva/donation-form-backup

We find comfort in knowing that John’s legacy lives on through the lessons he taught, the love he shared, and the memories we will cherish forever.

Online condolences may be shared at www.rumsey-yost.com

Michael Roy Falley

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Michael Roy Falley, 79, passed away peacefully in Lawrence, Kansas, surrounded by family on September 18, 2025.

He is survived by his wife, Beverly; his sons, Jason (Erin), Joshua (Cherry), and Jay (Hannah) Falley; and their mother, Linda; and Bev’s sons, Jeremy (Jennifer) and Nicholas (Kyrie) Totten. He also was the proud grandfather of 8 grandchildren: Katy, Grace, Hayden, Parker, William, Henry, Patrick and Evelyn. He was preceded in death by his parents, Melvin and Anita Falley and his sister, Sue (Falley) Anderson.

Born August 8, 1946 in Topeka, Kansas, Mike grew up in his family’s grocery business. From sweeping the floors at his father’s store before junior high school to managing one of the Falley’s stores after graduating from KU, his time spent in the grocery industry was dear to him and he was loved by customers and colleagues alike.

Mike attended Wentworth Military Academy in Missouri where he was part of the swim team and played drums in the marching band. One highlight of his life was participating in the Mardi Gras parade in New Orleans as a teen with the band’s drum corps. After graduation, he completed basic training as an Army medic, followed by 5 years in the Army Reserves. He graduated from the University of Kansas with a degree in Economics, where he was part of the KU marching band.  After graduation, he returned to his work at Falley’s and Food 4 Less where he helped establish franchises across the country.

After the family business was sold, Mike helped create a new company, Corporate Plan Management (CPM), an administrator of benefit packages for independent businesses. Upon retirement, he sold this business to his trusted CEO. He was also owner of Island Dreams Travel in Lawrence, where he lived for over 25 years.

Mike’s love of travel took him all over the world to over 60 countries across 5 continents. When asked about his favorite place to visit, his answer was always Tanzania (the Serengeti, viewing the wildlife in their natural habitat), closely followed by the train trip through the volcanic landscape of Ecuador, and his first glance up at the temple at Abu Simbel in Egypt, which brought tears to his eyes. His love of the sea took him many times to the Caribbean, the Mediterranean and other coastal destinations. He met many people during his travels who have remained friends throughout his life. He was comfortable in any environment and liked to say that the only language he needed to travel the world was the language of “Smile”.

One trip that he took every year for over 45 years was a canoe trip to one of the rivers in Southern Missouri, started with a friend and their young sons. What started as a small group of fathers and sons grew to a group of up to 50 or more fathers, sons, friends and guests throughout the years. Although he has passed the “Coordinator” position to one of the next generation, he continued to enjoy this trip every year until very recently. The group still looks forward to this every year and it now includes grandchildren and great-grandchildren of the original group.

Some of Mike’s fondest memories were being a father to his sons and Bev’s sons, always being there for them and teaching them by example to “do the next right thing”. He was a coach, a mentor, an ally, a motivator and a stalwart fan of all of them as well as many of their friends.

Mike loved spending the mornings having coffee, watching the animals in the yard and listening to the birds sing. This was his time of meditation and reflection. He enjoyed going to the local theatre in Kansas City and finding venues for live music (occasionally participating), both at home and while traveling.

Mike was loved by everyone he met. We will miss his smile, his stories, his humor, his hugs, his kindness, his optimism and his positivity which filled every space he occupied.

Through these many years, the words repeated time and time again from people talking about Mike after meeting him, traveling with him, caring for him or in any way connected to him, were these: “He is such a sweet man”.

Just moments before he left this world, the soft, familiar tune of Brahms’ Lullaby chimed through the hospital’s sound system, signaling a new baby had been born. The circle of life was complete.

Paula J. Hedges

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Paula J. Hedges, beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on Thursday, September 18, 2025, at her home in Lawrence, Kansas, after a hard-fought battle with cancer. She was 67.

Paula was born on April 6, 1958, in Frontenac, Kansas, to Francis and Betty Wolownik. From an early age, she was known for her warmth, resilience, and her deep devotion to family.

She married the love of her life, Scott Hedges. Together they shared a marriage filled with devotion, laughter, and partnership. Side by side, they co-owned and operated a property management company, building both a business and a life grounded in hard work, dedication, and love. Their commitment to each other and to their family was evident in everything they did.

Paula especially cherished her role as “Grandma.” She adored spending time with Ethan, Hunter, and Opal, celebrating their milestones and showering them with love and encouragement. Her grandchildren were the light of her life, and she took immense pride in each of them. Paula dearly loved each of her children and family members, and her devotion to them was the cornerstone of her life.

She is survived by her children Anna, Kayla, and Michael and his wife Lynsi; her cherished grandchildren Ethan, Hunter, and Opal; her brother Michael Wolownik and his wife Stacy; her sister Marianne Armagost and her husband Roger; and Scott’s family, including his mother Yvonne Hedges, siblings Laura Burney and her husband Frank, Bryan Hedges and his wife Laura, and Blake Hedges and his wife Kris and their families, including many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, Scott Hedges, and her parents, Francis and Betty Wolownik.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that memorial contributions be directed to the educational fund of Paula’s beloved grandchildren, Ethan, Hunter, and Opal. Please consider honoring her legacy by supporting their future. Contributions may be made through the family’s GoFundMe page: https://gofund.me/aedbf4c49.

Visitation will begin at 10 am, with a rosary being prayed at 10:30 am, followed by funeral services at 11am all at Rumsey-Yost Funeral Home on Friday, September 26, 2025.  Burial will be at Oak Hill Cemetery.

Paula will be remembered for her unwavering love, her generous spirit, and the countless ways she brought comfort and joy to those around her.

Rodney Wayne Haeffner

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Rodney Wayne Haeffner, 86, stepped into Heaven on September 20, 2025, at Overland Park Medical Center in Kansas City, Kansas.

A celebration of his life will take place at 11:00 AM, with visitation at 10:00 AM, on Friday, September 26, at Worden Cornerstone Church in Baldwin City, Kansas.

Flowers may be delivered on Friday morning, September 26, 2025 to Worden Cornerstone Church before the service begins, 294 E. 900 Rd., Baldwin City, KS 66006. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Convoy of Hope, sent in care of Rumsey-Yost Funeral Home:  P.O. Box 1260, Lawrence, KS 66044.

Rodney was born on July 5, 1939 in Arvada, Colorado. He was the son of Harvey and Dorothy Haeffner.  He married Donna Cox on April 15, 1960 in Arvada, Colorado celebrating 65 years of marriage this past April.

Rodney was a member of Worden Cornerstone Church after moving to Baldwin City, Kansas in 2009, and a longtime member of Calvary Gospel Church in Goodland, Kansas before their move.  He received his salvation in 1965 at a Billy Grahm crusade in Denver, Colorado. He was a hard worker.  He grew up on a dairy farm, a truck driver, owned/operated two trucks, owned a landscaping business and after retirement he owned a Creative Curb business. He was a wonderful husband, father, and grandfather.

He was preceded in death by his parents Harvey H. and Dorothy Haeffner and a brother Harvey C. Haeffner.  He is survived by his wife, Donna Haeffner of Baldwin City, Kansas, his children Randy Haeffner and his wife Diane of Baldwin City, Kansas, Rick Haeffner and his wife Gina of Colby, Kansas and Robin Rains and her husband Steve of Valley Center, Kansas. His brother, Arden Haeffner of Sheridan, Wyoming and his sister Connie (Stan) Ryder of Canton, Ohio.  Rodney is also survived by eight grandchildren, fifteen great-grandchildren, and many other family members and friends.

 

Edward Allen Martinko

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Edward A. Martinko passed away on September 16, 2025. He was 80 years old. A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, November 2 at 2:00 pm at the Armitage Educational Center located in the Kansas University Field Station. All who knew and loved Ed are encouraged to attend.

Ed was the retired Director of KU’s Biological Survey and Professor of Biology. In his capacity as Director, he provided excellent leadership and support to many scientists focused on ecological research on environmental problems. Ed gave expertise in places around the world including University of New England in Australia. Nationally in the USA he worked at NASA and the US Environmental Protection Agency. In Kansas, he served as President of the Entomological Society and the Kansas Water Authority. At KU, he served on 20 committees. He would be most pleased and remembered for the contribution he made to bringing the Field Station to maturity. It is now open to the public and does amazing programming for all ages but especially schoolchildren.

Ed was the Primary Investigator and author of over 100 research grants that provided KU and the State of Kansas with over twenty-one million dollars. He also had over 100 presentations and written articles. Many of these were about his interest and expertise in remote sensing in agriculture and preservation of natural resources. Ed was the recipient of many awards for his contributions to various professional endeavors.

Ed was born in August 1945 in Colorado Springs. His boyhood and K-12 education were spent there, graduating from Wasson High School. While growing up he enjoyed singing in various choirs and playing the accordion. And won prizes for his accordion playing. Upon graduating from Wasson High, Ed decided to exchange his home in the mountains for the Flint Hills of Kansas. He used his Merit Scholarship to attend College of Emporia, a small Presbyterian liberal arts school. He majored in biology and was also active in singing, travelling around the country with the C of E Chorale. Four years later he returned to his home state, to work on a master’s degree in biology at University of Colorado. After receiving his MS degree, he received a graduate fellowship to begin work on a doctorate in biology at KU. Soon, he received his Ph.D. in Biology and began a lifelong academic career at the University of Kansas.

On May 28, 1977, a day he considered “the best day of my life” he married Nancy Hale, a Lawrence native. They remained a “dynamic duo minus the capes” travelling the world together until Nancy’s death in 2021. They had many friends in Lawrence. Thay had very special friends, Paul and Stacey in Kentucky, Bob and Alice, as well as Jerry and Gwen in Tennessee who will miss Ed. He is survived by a sister, Patricia, Nephew Joe and Niece Julie, and Nancy’s brother Ken.

Memorial contributions may be made in Ed Martinko’s name to: KU Endowment for the Kansas Biological Survey.

Morilla Ann “Pud” Hursh Fothergill

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Morilla Ann “Pud” Hursh Fothergill died on September 16, 2025 at her home in Baldwin City, KS after spending her final hours with nearly every member of her family. She was born May 14, 1934 in Kansas City, KS, the daughter of Frank E. and Georgeann (Dewey) Hursh. She attended Wyandotte High School where she was active in many clubs. She attended Baker University in Baldwin City, where her involvement in the Phi Mu sorority left a life-long impact.

On April 21, 1956 in Denver, CO, she married Charles R. Fothergill. They raised their family in Aspen, CO when it was still a quaint old mining town full of free spirits. She and her children lived in Gunnison, CO for five years before moving to Emporia, KS in 1978.

She worked at Emporia State University for twenty years before retiring to Baldwin City. She was a long-time member of P. E. O. and on the ZA of Phi Mu Corporation Board for many years. In Baldwin City she volunteered at the Public Library and was nominated for Kansas State Volunteer of the Year in 2013. She was also active in Book Club and Bridge Club. She was a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution.

Memories of her father’s love of baseball in Kansas City gave her a lifelong love of the Royals. She loved camping in the mountains with her family, planting trees and playing bridge.

She was preceded in death by her parents, a brother Frank W. Hursh of Baldwin City, her son-in-law Roy E. Deel of Baldwin City, and her ex-husband. She also outlived all her close friends.

She is survived by five children; Connie Deel, of Tijeras, NM; Lynne Fothergill of Baldwin City, KS, Wade (Michelle) Fothergill of Elbert, CO; Cody Fothergill of Lenexa, KS; Forrest (Melissa) Fothergill of Lake Charles, LA; former daughter-in-law, Rita Fothergill of Lenexa, KS; nine grandchildren; Chapin (Marie) Deel of Albuquerque, NM, Nathan Deel (Holly O’Neal) of Topeka, KS, Mattie (Kayla) Cooper of Stanley, NM, Emylene, Maxwell, & Macey Fothergill of Elbert, CO; Emelia & Nora Fothergill of Lenexa, KS, Hunter Fothergill of Lake Charles, LA and a step granddaughter Railey (Jayvan) Schaubhut of Poplarville, MS. Four great grandchildren, Araceli & Lorena Deel of Albuquerque, NM, Avilynn & Holland Deel of Topeka, KS, and step great granddaughter Raivyn Schaubhut of Poplarville, MS

A memorial service and a private burial in Osceola, MO will follow next year under the charge of Rumsey-Yost Funeral Home of Lawrence, KS.

 

Vicky Sue Climer

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Vicky Sue Climer, 70, Lawrence, died Friday, September 12, 2025, at her home. She was born on April 30, 1955, in St. Charles County, Missouri, the daughter of Orville H. and Patsy (Markum) Price.

Vicky was preceded in death by her mother Patsy, stepfather Norman D. Hamm, father Orville, and brother Mike Price of Monroe, WI.

She is survived by her son Shawn (Suzanne) McAlister and daughter Misty McAlister; grandchildren Kaitlin, Kylee, Alexya (Riley), Eliana, Sir, Jordyn, and Zi; great-grandchildren Kreighton and Swaelen; her sister, Marcia (Tom) Smart; nephew Michael; nieces Michelle (Chris), Tosha, Chantel, and Brianna; and a multitude of great nieces and nephews.

Cremation is planned.  A visitation will be held on Thursday, October 2, 2025, from 6:00-8:00 pm at Rumsey-Yost Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials to the Vicky Climer Funeral Fund (https://gofund.me/765acefc2) or charity of their choice.