Claudine “Scottie” Lingelbach

Scottie Lingelbach passed away peacefully on April 3, in Lawrence, Kansas, after almost 96 years of an energetic life.

She graduated from Topeka High School in 1940, and from the University of Kansas in 1944 with a Business Degree. After graduation, she enlisted in the Navy WAVES (Women Accepted for Voluntary Emergency Service), and attained the rank of Ensign.

Her experiences as a courier of Top Secret documents for the Joint Chiefs of Staff in Washington, DC during WWII were included in Tom Brokaw’s book The Greatest Generation.

In 1945, Scottie married Dale Lingelbach who later became the Vice President of Marketing for Smith Brothers Manufacturing Company (Big Smith), headquartered in Carthage, Missouri. He preceded her in death in 1967.

A longtime resident of Carthage, she was proud to have been a teacher, real estate agent, and Deacon and Elder of the First Presbyterian Church. Always a die-hard Jayhawk, in 1987 she moved to Lawrence, Kansas and became a docent at the Spencer Art Museum, Chancellor’s Club member, Williams Fund contributor, and recipient of the Mildred Clodfelter Award for her longtime KU volunteer service. She was also a member of the First United Methodist Church, PEO, Tennola Study Club, and enthusiastic patriot.

She leaves two children, two grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, a niece and many friends to be inspired by her story.

A memorial service will be held on April 10, at the First United Methodist Church in Lawrence at 11:00 am.

In lieu of flowers, please direct any donations to the First Presbyterian Church in Carthage, Missouri, or to your favorite charity, sent in care of Rumsey-Yost Funeral Home, P.O. Box 1260, Lawrence, KS 66044.