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No obituaries reported.
Joyce Y. Matlock, 72, of Sheridan, died Monday, April 27, 2009, at Sheridan Memorial Hospital. A viewing is 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Saturday at Kane Funeral Home. Funeral services will follow at 2 p.m. at the funeral home with Pastor Dan Keller officiating. Interment will be in the Sheridan Municipal Cemetery. Memorials may benefit the Sheridan Senior Citizen’s Center, 211 Smith Street, Sheridan, WY 82801.
Lansemere “Lance” Vanderhoef, 89, of Dayton, died Saturday, April 25, 2009, at the Sheridan VA Medical Center. Cremation has taken place. Private memorial services will be at a later date. Kane Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. In lieu of flowers, memorials may benefit Dayton Volunteer Fire and Rescue, c/o Jon and Yodi Miles, PO Box 396, Dayton, WY 82836.
A Celebration of Life memorial service for Riverton businessman and civic leader Robert M. "Bob" Sackett will be at 11 a.m. on Friday, May 15, at the United Presbyterian Church in Riverton. Mr. Sackett died Sunday night, April 19, 2009, at the Davis Hospice Center in Cheyenne. He was 83. Robert M Sackett, Jr., was born in Casper on Sept. 1, 1925, the son of Robert M. Sackett, Sr., and Mary Margaret (Bean) Sackett. He was graduated in 1944 from Natrona County High School, where he was active in football, basketball, and track. He attended Casper College. On Feb. 7, 1944, he was inducted into the U.S. Army. He received his honorable discharge as a Staff Sgt. Feb. 17, 1946. On April 5, 1947, he married Jean L. Brunk in Casper. Two daughters – Susan Marie and Karen Leigh – were born to that union. Jean preceded him in death on Sept. 30 1991. In December of 1993, he married Eldonna Coleman. She preceded him in death on Nov. 4, 2003. Mr. Sackett was a master electrician and he was owner and operator of Riverton Electric Co. for 40 years. He was a charter member of the Riverton United Presbyterian Church in 1959. Mr. Sackett was a 59-year member of the Masonic Lodge AF&AM with dual memberships in Casper and Riverton and was a past master of Riverton Lodge 26. Mr. Sackett also held memberships in all the Masonic orders for over 50 years. He was a 33rd degree Mason through the Scottish Rite, a member of the York Rite, and the Shrine, having served as potentate of Kalif Shrine in 1986. He currently was a member of the board of directors of the Scottish Rite Foundation. In addition, he was a life member of the American Legion, Kiwanis Club, Riverton Chamber of Commerce, Veterans of Foreign Wars, and B.P.O. Elks Lodge. He served 12 years on the Wyoming Fire Prevention and Electrical Safety Board and received the Riverton Chamber of Commerce Industrial Service Award, Community Service Award, Boss of the Year, and Riverton Railroaders Ambassador award. Mr. Sackett was a member of the National Electrical Contractors Association and served as president and governor of the Wyoming chapter. He was active in Riverton youth organizations and was on the board of directors for the Wyoming North/South Shrine football games, including several terms as president. Survivors include daughters, Susan Harris and her husband Gordon of Twin Falls, Idaho, and Karen Lange and husband Bruce of Laramie; grandchildren, Shawn Robert Harris and his wife Jill, Brian Jeffrey Harris, Andrew Michael Lange, and Sarah Nichole Lange; great grandsons, Tyler James Harris, Alec Michael Harris, Martin Adam Harris, and Kellen Patrick Harris; a sister, Mary Susan "Sue" Denes and her husband Andy of Park Ridge, Ill.; nieces and nephews; step- daughters from his second marriage, Jody, Carrie, and Eldeana, and their families; special friend, JoAnn Gill of Sheridan. Memorials may be made to the Shrine Hospital for Crippled Children, or the United Presbyterian Church of Riverton, in care of the Davis Funeral Home, 2203 West Main, Riverton, WY 82501. On-line obituaries are available and condolences for the family may be made at: thedavisfuneralhome.com Services are under the direction of the Davis Funeral Home of Riverton.
Harry Thomas Latham, 72, of Buffalo, died Thursday, April 16, 2009, in Billings. A memorial service will be held at a later date. Adams Funeral Home in Buffalo is in charge of arrangements. Born Nov. 28, 1936, in Chicago to Harry and Marion Latham, he attended schools in Chicago and Texas and several colleges in Texas where he studied business and personnel management. He worked at Texas Instruments and the City of Lubbock Police Department in the records division. He married Mavis L. Miller in Lubbock. The couple moved to Buffalo in 1997. He was a member of the MENSA Society and enjoyed theosophy and astrology. He was preceded in death by one brother and one sister. Survivors include his wife; four stepdaughters, Becky Thompson of Buffalo, Debbie Garcia of Lubbock, Kim Miller of Tyler, Texas, and Teresa Oppermann of Cedar Creek, Texas; a brother, Phil Latham of Texas; and nine grandchildren. Memorials may benefit the Susie Bowling Lawrence Hospice, c/o Adams Funeral home, 351 N. Adams Ave., Buffalo, WY 82834.
Gilbert Dickerson, 57, of Sheridan, died Saturday, April 25, 2009, in Sheridan Memorial Hospital. Arrangements are pending with Champion Ferries Funeral Home.
Peter N. Klebnikoff, 84, of Sheridan, died Sunday, April 26, 2009, in Sheridan Manor. Arrangements are pending with Champion Ferries Funeral Home.
No obituaries reported.
Beatrice Gallatin-Beuf, 102, of Big Horn died Tuesday, April 21, 2009, at her residence. Cremation has taken place and memorial services will be later. Kane Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Leoetta Ruth “Pat” Bates, 82, of Sheridan died Wednesday, April 22, 2009, in Sheridan Manor.
Visitation is 5-7 p.m. Friday at Champion Ferries Funeral Home. Funeral service will be 10 a.m. Saturday at the funeral home with the Rev. Brian Johnson officiating. Burial will be in the Sheridan Municipal Cemetery.
Mrs. Bates was born Aug. 29, 1926, in Wakefield, Neb., to Fred and Grace (Christopher) Strange. Her family moved in 1936 to Sheridan, where she attended grade school and graduated from Sheridan High School in 1944.
She married Kleo Sams in Sheridan in July 1944. They divorced in 1969.
She married Clyde Franklin Bates in Sheridan in July 1977. He died in November 1985.
Mrs. Bates worked in various motels in Sheridan and also in housekeeping at Sheridan Memorial Hospital.
She enjoyed croquet, sewing, plastic crafts, collecting refrigerator magnets, the mountains, volunteering at Sheridan Senior Center, and especially time spent with family.
In addition to her husband, a daughter preceded her in death.
Survivors include two sons, Andrew and Jack Sams of Sheridan; two daughters, Margaret Swinyer and Linda Haler of Sheridan; two stepsons, Ruben Bates of Sheridan and Steven Bates of Evanston; numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, step-grandchildren, and great-great grandchildren.
Memorials may benefit Sheridan Animal Shelter, 84 East Ridge Road, or Sheridan Senior Center, 211 Smith St., Sheridan, WY 82801.
James A. Fullenwider, 55, of Pine Haven, father of Laci Fullenwider of Ranchester, died Sunday, April 5, 2009, of a brain aneurysm while on a two-month holiday in Parker, Ariz., according to family. Cremation has taken place. A memorial and celebration of life was Monday at Family Life Church in Gillette with the Rev. Gordon Harper officiating. Walker Funeral Home in Gillette was in charge of local arrangements. Born Jan 11, 1954, to Albert A. and Jonnie F. Fullenwider in Rangely, Colo., he attended schools in Rangely, moving to Gillette in 1969. He graduated from Campbell County High School in 1972. He was an undefeated high school state wrestling champion and an avid football player. He attended Dickinson State College in North Dakota for one year. Mr. Fullenwider worked in the oil fields of Wyoming, North Dakota, Utah, Colorado, and New Mexico and most recently as a consultant with Freer Consulting in Gillette. He married Denise L. Robinson on Sept. 12, 1991. He enjoyed reading, bowling and relaxing in his boat on the lake, and playing with his grandchildren. He was known as a good Samaritan to anyone in need and for his great sense of humor. In addition to his daughter, survivors include his wife; a second daughter, Nicole Fullenwider of Gillette; two stepchildren, Alicia Lorduy and Joe Waterhouse of Gillette; two brothers, Stan Fullenwider of Vernal, Utah, and Bob Fullenwider of Ojai, Calif.; three sisters, Wanda Murphy of Wheat Ridge, Colo., and Barbara Gulley and Nancy Turner, both of Gillette; and four grandchildren. In lieu of flowers, donations may benefit Campbell County Humane Society. The obituary for James A. Fullenwider in Friday’s Sheridan Press contained inaccurate information submitted to the paper. The place of death, number of grandchildren, and where donations may be sent have been corrected.
Christopher J. Fletcher, 23, of Littleton, Colo., and Sheridan died Monday, April 20, 2009, from injuries received in an automobile accident. A memorial service is planned later in Littleton. Local arrangements are with Champion Ferries Funeral Home.
Helen Mae Zowada, 70, of Sheridan died Friday, April 17, 2009, at Sheridan Manor of breast cancer.
Funeral services will be 10 a.m. Thursday at Kane Funeral Home with the Rev. Thomas Ogg officiating. Burial will follow in Sheridan Elks Cemetery.
Born Nov. 10, 1938, in Monarch to Henry and Anna Oelschlager, she graduated from Sheridan High School.
She married Michael J. Zowada at Holy Name Catholic Church on June 15, 1957.
Mrs. Zowada enjoyed the mountains, working in her home and flower garden, cooking, and spending time with friends and family, especially her two granddaughters.
She was preceded in death by her husband.
Survivors include two sons, Loren and Merlin Zowada of Sheridan; a sister, Karen Shell of Sheridan; two brothers, Raymond Oelschlager of Salem, Ore., and Darreld Oelschlager of Yelm, Wash.; two granddaughters; and a niece and nephew.
Memorials may benefit the Kelly Schreibeis Memorial Foundation, P.O. Box 6786, Sheridan, WY 82801.
The location of services for Helen Mae Zowada, 70, of Sheridan has changed. Mass of Christian Burial is 10 a.m. Thursday at Kane Funeral Home with the Rev. Thomas Ogg officiating. Burial will be in the Elks Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may benefit the Kelly Schreibeis Memorial Foundation, P.O. Box 6786, Sheridan, WY 82801. Mrs. Zowada died Friday, April 17, 2009, at Sheridan Manor.
Former Big Horn resident Shirley Ann (VandenBerg) Kopta, 68, of Portland, Ore., died Monday, April 13, 2009, in Portland. A celebration of life is planned later. Arrangements are by Crown Memorial Center in Milwaukie, Ore. Born Aug. 15, 1940, in Newcastle, she grew up in Big Horn and was valedictorian of her high school class. She attended Sheridan College and graduated from the University of Wyoming with a degree in education. She was a member of Tri-Delt sorority. After graduation she taught at North Powellhurst Elementary in Portland. She married Gerald R. Kopta. Mrs. Kopta was known as one of the original “Hockey Moms” in Portland. She helped organize and direct the Rose Festival Hockey tournaments at Valley Ice Arena and was regularly involved organizing hockey exchanges with Sapporo, Japan, and numerous Canadian cities. Previously a full-time homemaker, she created a successful bindery business employing parents of young hockey players to help finance their children's participation in the sport. The amateur fundraising group “The Oregon Hockey Moms” later became a full-time business, “Oregon Stingers.” Survivors include her husband; a daughter, Shawn Rector of Troutdale, Ore.; a son, Koley R. Kopta of Gladstone, Ore.; a brother, Alvin VandenBerg of Denver; a sister, Donna Stribling of Estes Park, Colo.; two grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.
Former Sheridan resident Eva Jane Johnson, 84, of Kihei, Maui, died Friday, March 13, 2009, at her residence. Private services are pending. Born Feb. 14, 1925, in Pasadena, Calif., she grew up in Southern California and was a former hospital medical transcriber. She enjoyed having dinner parties for her friends in Wyoming, Kansas City and California and welcoming new babies to her family. She was a golfer, figure skater, and majorette. She loved parades, marching bands and celebrations and built floats for the Tournament of Roses in Pasadena and other youth parades in California. She considered Maui as “Heaven on Earth.” Survivors include her husband, Joseph Johnson; two sons, Thomas Rowley of Idaho Falls, Idaho, and William Rowley of Salten, Wash.; a daughter, Christine Phillips of Kihei; three grandsons; and two great-grandsons.
Fred A. Patten, 93, of Banner died Saturday, April 18, 2009, in Sheridan Manor. Cremation has taken place, and private family services will be in Connecticut. Arrangements are with Champion Ferries Funeral Home. Born Aug. 15, 1915, in Livingston, N.Y., to Fred and Maud (McRoberts) Patten, he grew up and attended schools in Linlithco, N.Y. He served in the U.S. Army before World War II and married Joyce Parraga in 1936. During World War II, he worked for Curtis-Wright. After the war, he moved to Hudson, N.Y., where he worked for Foster Refrigeration as a production manager. In the later 1940s, he moved to Connecticut, where he worked for J.M. Ney. In the late 1960s, he divorced and moved to Billings, where he met his future second wife, Dorothy Johnson. He later moved to the Sheridan area. He was known for his creativity and talent fixing things. He designed and built his own vacuum-forming machine and more. He was preceded in death by his wife; a son, Fred Jr.; and two sisters. Survivors include a son, Dan of Old Lyme, Conn.; three daughters, Penny Reneson of Lyme, Conn., Lynne Poulos of Willimantic, Conn., and Gayle Leckie of Billings; six grandchildren; and 10 great-grandchildren.
Helen Mae Zowada, 70, of Sheridan died Friday, April 17, 2009, at Sheridan Manor. Mass of Christian Burial is 10 a.m. Thursday at Holy Name Catholic Church with the Rev. Thomas Ogg officiating. Burial will be in Elks Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may benefit the Kelly Schreibeis Memorial Foundation, P.O. Box 6786, Sheridan WY 82801. Kane Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Michael George Markley, 50, of Sheridan, died Tuesday, April 14, 2009, at his residence.
A memorial service is 4 p.m. today at Stoddard Funeral Home in Greeley, Colo.
A celebration of life is 2-4 p.m. Tuesday at Eagles Aerie 186, 850 N. Main St., Sheridan.
Local arrangements are with Champion Ferries Funeral Home.
Born Sept. 14, 1958, in Greeley to Kenneth Howard and Corona Irene (Miller) Markley, he grew up and attended Greeley schools and graduated from Greeley West High School.
He served in the U.S. Army from May 9, 1976, to Aug. 29, 1978. He married Tamera Jones.
Mr. Markley was a salesman for Eagle Distributing until 1994, when, due to back injuries, he made a career of taking care of his family.
A member of Eagles Aerie 186 in Sheridan, he enjoyed fishing, camping, spending time with his family, and family vacations.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Survivors include his wife of Cutbank, Mont.; one son, Kenneth Michael Markley of Dayton; one daughter, Amanda Rose Markley of Story; two brothers, Patrick Markley and Don Markley; and five sisters, Betty Jo Markley, Mary Scott, Linda Jantz, Kathy Haskins, and Judy Roberts.
James A. Fullenwider, 55, of Pine Haven, father of Laci Fullenwider of Ranchester, died Sunday, April 5, 2009, of a brain aneurysm while on vacation in Phoenix, according to family. Cremation has taken place. A memorial and celebration of life is 6 p.m. Monday at Family Life Church in Gillette with the Rev. Gordon Harper officiating. Born Jan. 11, 1954, to Albert A. and Jonnie F. Fullenwider in Rangely, Colo., he moved to Gillette in 1969 and graduated from Campbell County High School in 1972. He was an undefeated high school state wrestling champion and an avid football player. He attended Dickinson State College in North Dakota for one year. He married Tina Jo Macmillan on March 20, 1977. The couple had two daughters. They later divorced. Mr. Fullenwider worked in the oil fields of Wyoming, North Dakota, Utah, Colorado, and New Mexico and most recently as a consultant with Freer Consulting in Gillette. He married Denise Robinson, who had two children of her own. He enjoyed reading, bowling, and relaxing in his boat on the lake. He was preceded in death by his parents. In addition to his daughter, survivors include his wife; a second daughter, Nicole Fullenwider of Gillette; two stepchildren, Alicia Lorduy and Joe Waterhouse of Gillette; two brothers, Stan Fullenwider of Vernal, Utah, and Bob Fullenwider of Ojai, Calif.; three sisters, Wanda Murphy of Wheat Ridge, Colo., and Barbara Gulley and Nancy Turner, both of Gillette; one grandchild; and four step-grandchildren. In lieu of flowers or donations, remembrances may be sent to daughters Nicole Fullenwider, 3704 Hoback Ave., Gillette, WY 82718 or Laci Fullenwider, P.O. Box 344, Ranchester, WY 82839.
Tina Bear Cloud, 46, of Sheridan died today, April 17, 2009, at her residence. Arrangements are pending with Champion Ferries Funeral Home.
Maxine passed on to be with the Lord the morning of April 11, 2009 at the age of 71 in Victorville, CA after a long battle with COPD. She had also been a previous resident of Phelan, CA for 21 years. A beloved mother, grandmother and sister, Maxine was born in Dore, North Dakota on October 9, 1937. She grew up in Sheridan, Wyoming, graduating from Sheridan High School in 1956. Maxine moved to California in 1965 where she and her husband Bill made their home raising their four children. They settled in Phelan in 1986. Maxine worked hard all her life. She enjoyed working as a waitress and also had a board and care home taking care of V.A. veterans. Her biggest joy was being a great mother to her four children all of whom she was very proud. Not only was she a great mother, but she was a good cook and loved preparing food for family vacations, picnics and camping trips....and later that would include loving her seven grandchildren. Maxine loved pets and when possible chose pets from shelters and rescues. Maxine is survived by her daughter Marcie Wolters and husband Tim of Victorville, CA; son William (Bill), III, Doran and wife Sharon of Pinon Hills, CA; son John Doran and wife Ana of Apple Valley, CA; son Patrick Doran and wife Tami of Apple Valley, CA; seven grandchildren, James, Andrew, Paul, David, Shelby, Travis and Jenelle Doran; brothers and sisters Leon, Joyce, Derald, Belinda and Lonnie of Sheridan, Wyoming and Myrna of Buffalo, Wyoming. She is preceded in death by her husband William J. Doran Jr., her parents Emmett and Thelma Stiles and brother Berdon Stiles. Services will be held at Desert View Funeral Home on Friday, April 17. Visitation and viewing will be from 10 am to 11 am. The service will start at 11 am with a graveside burial service immediately afterward. Flowers may be sent to Desert View Funeral Home 11478 Amargosa Road, Victorville, CA 92392 and/or donations may be made to Camp Bethel, P.O. Box 70, Dayton, Wyoming 82836 in Maxine’s name.
Charles “Charlie” Edgar Kinslow, 81, of Sheridan died Monday, April 13, 2009, at Sheridan Manor. No services are planned. Burial will be at Black Hills National Cemetery in South Dakota with arrangements by Kane Funeral Home. Born July 13, 1927, in Indianapolis to Charles Kinslow and Thelma Whitney Kinslow, he served in the U.S. Air Force from Sept. 7, 1945, to Aug. 30, 1948. He then returned to Indiana to farm. He also worked as a merchantman and long-haul truck driver. He spent many years at the Veterans Home in Buffalo before making his home at Sheridan Manor.
Sheila J. Damm, 52, of Sheridan died Monday, April 13, 2009, at Sheridan Memorial Hospital. Kane Funeral Home is in charge of cremation arrangements. A memorial service is 2 p.m. April 24 at Eagles Aerie 186. Born July 15, 1956, in Worland to Clyde and Bonnie Frisbee, she was a 1974 graduate of Rock Springs High School. She married Ricky Damm in Worland on May 19, 1986. Mrs. Damm enjoyed working as a waitress, fishing, dancing, singing, camping, community fundraising, cross-stitch, rock hunting, meeting new people, and spending time with her grandchildren. Having fun was important to her, and she was known as a jokester. She was preceded in death by her mother. She is survived by her husband. In lieu of flowers memorials may benefit Eagles Aerie 186.
Michael Markley, 49, of Sheridan died Tuesday, April 14, 2009, at his residence.
Arrangements are pending with Champion Ferries Funeral Home.
Former Sheridan resident David Satterlee MacClean, 41, of Los Angeles died Saturday, March 28, 2009, after an extended illness, according to family. Cremation has taken place and no services are planned. Born Sept. 5, 1967, in Salt Lake City to Dr. Walter and Nancy (Strale) MacClean, he attended Sheridan elementary schools, St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, the University of Colorado, Le Cordon Bleu Culinary Institute in London, and Beverly Hills Playhouse acting school. Survivors include his father of Sheridan; his mother, Nancy MacClean Haskew, of Port Aransas, Texas; and a sister, Carrie MacClean of Monroe, N.C. Condolences may be sent to Walter MacClean, Mountain View Living Center, 1898 Fort Road, Sheridan, WY 82801.
Ruth Talmadge Semmens, 101, of Buffalo died Monday, April 13, 2009, at Amie Holt Care Center in Buffalo. Visitation is 1-9 p.m. Sunday and 8-9:30 a.m. Monday with 10 a.m. services at Adams Funeral Home Chapel, the Rev. Russ Murphy officiating. Burial will be in Willow Grove Cemetery with graveside rites. Born Oct. 24, 1907, in Lander to John and Olive Driver Chandler, she attended schools in Fremont County and married William C. Talmadge in 1922. They divorced. She married James Semmens, and the couple lived in Midwest. She worked as a waitress and sales representative for Unique Clothes Co. of New York. During World War II, she was a reporter for the Casper Star-Tribune and also taught Italian hemstitching and needlework through the county extension office. She supplemented her income as a seamstress and worked at Midwest Drug Store and the Midwest Commissary as main cashier. In the 1950s, she opened her own drug and variety store and soda fountain, selling the store after 15 years. After the death of her husband, she traveled extensively. She moved to Casper, where she was a cashier at the Ramada Inn. In 1973, she moved to Buffalo to be near her sister. She began oil painting and completed 100 paintings in two years. She lost her sight in 1981. She enjoyed playing the steel guitar, clarinet and alto saxophone, horseback riding, swimming, ice skating, gardening, and spending time at her cabin west of Buffalo. She was a member of St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, a member of Rebekah for more than 40 years, and a lifetime member of Veterans of Foreign Wars Auxiliary. She was preceded in death by two sons and a sister. Survivors include two grandsons; numerous great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren; a great-great-great granddaughter; a niece and two nephews. Memorials may benefit Rocky Mountain Lions Eye Bank in care of Adams Funeral Home, 351 N. Adams Ave., Buffalo, WY 82834.
Bradford Spear passed away in Sheridan on Monday, 13 April. He was 83. Brad was born in Sheridan on 15 May 1925, the seventh child of Jessamine (n_e Spear) and William Victor Johnson of the Rosebud X4 Ranch near Kirby, Montana. He was the grandson of Willis Moses Spear, Wyoming and Montana pioneer and cattleman. He changed his name to Spear in order to carry on the family name. Brad attended primary school at the Kirby Log Schoolhouse, the Waters School on the Cheyenne Reservation and the Corral Creek School on the Crow Reservation, riding his horse to and fro in all kinds of weather. He graduated from Sheridan High School with the class of 1943 while in the US Navy, which he joined in 1942. He served mainly in the Pacific, participating in landings at Guam, Iwojima, Okinawa, Saipan and others. The youngest radioman in the Navy, he was awarded seven medals and citations. He was especially proud of being among the first on 12 April 1945 to intercept, decode and transmit the Japanese Emperor_s message announcing Japan_s surrender. On 7 September 1950, Brad married Patricia Ann Brooder, daughter of Charlotte (n_e Vigness) and Jack Brooder of Sheridan. She accompanied him back to Colorado State University at Fort Collins, where he received a B.S. in Economics and Range Management in 1951. He was a member of the Sigma Chi fraternity. After graduating, they spent their early married life at the Spear- O Ranch near Kirby, and started their herd of Angus cattle. Later they moved to the Padlock Ranch near Dayton, where Brad held a number of management posts until he retired. They raised four children and travelled the world, visiting six continents. They moved to Sheridan in 1992. Brad was an active member of the Montana Stockgrowers Association, holding the chairmanships of the Brand and Theft Committee and the Reservation Ranchers Committee. He was also President of the Big Horn County Livestock Association (Montana) and Chairman of Weed and Pest Control in both Sheridan and Big Horn Counties. In addition to playing the guitar and piano, Brad was a talented actor, participating in numerous Civic Theatre Guild plays. A committed Rotarian, he was a longstanding member of the Dayton- Ranchester and Sheridan Rotary chapters. And many in Sheridan will remember him as the _voice_ and instigator of Crime Stoppers. Brad, Patricia and the children were enthusiastic skiers, and Brad was a founder-director of the Fun Valley Corporation, which ran the Antelope Butte Ski Area for many years. He and Patricia put away their downhill and crosscountry skis only a few years ago. Brad is survived by Patricia; their children Andrea of Geneva, Switzerland, Mary Pat Obermiller (Rod) of Dayton, Willis (Ann) of Riverton, and Tenley of Billings; and their grandchildren Seth Gleason and Suzie Gleason-Trumbull of Sheridan, and Maor Spear of Berlin, Germany. Services will be held at Saint Peter_s Episcopal Church on Friday, 17 April, at 1100 am. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations should go to Saint Peter_s Youth Group (tel. 674 7655) or to the Senior_s Minibus Service (tel. 672 2240).
Word has been received of the death of Dorothy G. Bennett on April 10, 2009 in Lincoln, Nebraska. Dorothy Lura Guyer was born October 12, 1906 in Sheridan, Wyoming to pioneer residents Edmund Grant Guyer and Anna Johnson Guyer. She received her early education in the Sheridan schools, later attending the University of California at Los Angeles and graduating from Hastings College, Hastings, Nebraska in 1930. On August 20, 1930, Dorothy married William Eugene _Gene_ Bennett, of Sheridan. The young couple settled in Buffalo, Wyoming, where Gene became associated with the Buffalo branch of the Pioneer Lumber Company. Two children were born to the couple: a son, William E. (Bill) Bennett, Jr., and a daughter, Ruth Marian. Buffalo was the family_s home for nearly 40 years with the exception of temporary residences during World War II while Gene was on active duty in the Army. In 1968, the couple built a retirement cottage in Story, Wyoming, where for six years they spent summers. Winters were spent in San Diego, California. In 1974 they moved to Phoenix, Arizona, to be near their son_s family. Gene passed away in 1975. In 1998, Dorothy moved to her daughter_s home in Lincoln, Nebraska. Dorothy retained her memberships in the Union Congregational Church of Buffalo, the Wyoming Chapter J of PEO Sisterhood, and Goldenrod Chapter #13 of O.E.S. She was also a former long time member of the Friends in Council Study Club in Buffalo. Dorothy was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, her son; a brother, Dr. E. E. Guyer; and a sister, Ruth C. Jones. Survivors include her daughter and son-in-law, Rev. Lonnie and Marian Eschliman of Lincoln; daughter-in-law Yasuko Bennett of Goodyear, Arizona, 7 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild. Memorial services were held at St. Luke United Methodist Church in Lincoln, Nebraska, officiated by Pastors Dan Safarik and Lonnie Eschliman. A graveside service followed in West Resthaven Park Cemetery, Phoenix, Arizona. Memorials may be sent to Hospice of Tabitha, 4720 Randolph Street, 68510.
Sheridan native Joseph D. Kurtz, 92, of Sequim, Wash., died Sunday, April 12, 2009, in Sequim. A memorial service is 10 a.m. Thursday at Sequim Community Church. Cremation has taken place and cremains will return to Sheridan. Local arrangements are with Champion Ferries Funeral Home. Born Feb. 16, 1917, in Sheridan to Noah and Martha Kurtz, he graduated from Sheridan High School. He attended the University of Colorado, then the University of Wyoming as a pre-med student. In the summer of 1938, working for the Yellowstone National Park post office, he met his future wife, Nyla Glenn. World War II and his 1941 enlistment in the Army intervened in his education. After officer's school, he served as a captain from 1942 until Dec. 17, 1945, largely in the British West Indies, American Theater. Following the war, he completed his pre-medical biochemistry degree at UW. While fulfilling residency requirements for enrollment in the University of Washington School of Medicine, he was diverted into a career in brewing beer, beginning with Sick Century Brewing in Seattle. He subsequently enrolled in the Siebel Institute of Technology, Chicago, where he received a degree in brewing technology. In 1950, he moved to Frankenmuth, Mich., as a brewer. Mr. and Mrs. Kurtz spent 40 years traveling the country applying his skills in the brewing industry for a number of breweries including Rainier, Schlitz, and Carlings. He retired to Issaquah, Wash., in 1985 and to Sequim in 1990. Mrs. Kurtz died in October 2001. Mr. Kurtz met his second wife through the Sequim Community Church choir. Survivors include his wife, Laura Kurtz; a son, Jonathan of Hawaii; a sister, Mary Jane Culver of Laguna Hills, Calif.; a brother, James Kurtz of Auburn, Wash.; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Sheila J. Damm, 52, of Sheridan died Monday, April 13, 2009, at Sheridan Memorial Hospital.
Cremation arrangements are with Kane Funeral Home. A memorial service is 2 p.m. April 24 at Eagles Lodge 189.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may benefit Eagles Lodge 189.
Charles E. Kinslow, 81, of Sheridan died Monday, April 13, 2009, at Sheridan Manor. Interment will be in Black Hills National Cemetery in Sturgis, S.D. Kane Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Brad Spear, 83, of Sheridan died Monday, April 13, 2009, in Sheridan Memorial Hospital.Memorial service is 11 a.m. Friday at St. Peter's Episcopal Church with the Rev. Kevin Jones officiating. Inurnment will be in the church columbarium. Arrangements are with Champion Ferries Funeral Home.
David Satterlee MacClean, 41, of Los Angeles, CA died March 28, 2009 in Los Angeles after an extended illness. Cremation has taken place and no services are planned. Born Sept 5, 1967 in Salt Lake City to Dr. Walter and Nancy (Strale) MacClean, he attended Sheridan elementary schools, St. Peters Episcopal Church, the University of Colorado, Le Cordon Bleu Culinary Institute, London, England and the Beverly Hills Playhouse acting school. He is preceded in death by his great grandmother Nona Satterlee Kibben, uncle Edward MacClean of Hardin, MT, grandparents Edward and Eleanor (Dixie) MacClean of Cheyenne and Sheridan. Survivors include; father, Walter MacClean, mother, Nancy MacClean Haskew, Port Aransas, TX, sister, Carrie MacClean, Monroe, NC, June Kibben, Sheridan and Marjorie MacClean, Billings MT. Condolences maybe sent to Walter MacClean, Mt View Living Center, 1898 Fort Rd, Sheridan WY 82801.
Clarice Ann Anderson, 60, of Sheridan died Friday, April 10, 2009, in Sheridan Memorial Hospital.Funeral service is 10 a.m. Wednesday at Ranchester Community Church with the Rev. Dan Keller officiating. Burial will be in Alamo, N.D., next to her parents and other family members. Arrangements are with Champion Ferries Funeral Home.Born March 23, 1949, in Williston, N.D., to Arnold and Viola (Bilquist) Berve, she grew up on the family farm near Alamo and graduated from Alamo High School. She graduated from Minot State College in North Dakota with a degree in music.She married her high school sweetheart, Norman Anderson, Aug. 8, 1970 in Williston. They divorced in 2001. Mrs. Anderson lived in Mankato, Minn., for a few years, then moved to Ranchester in 1976, where she taught music in the Tongue River schools until retirement. She gave private piano and voice lessons the rest of her life. She was an active member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Sheridan, where she played the organ and was choir director. She also attended Ranchester Community Church. In 2000 she moved to Billings and attended Faith Lutheran Church and Peace Lutheran Church, where she also played the organ. She moved to Sheridan in 2008. She loved music and enjoyed cross-stitch, telling jokes, playing pinochle with friends and family, and cooking Swedish and Norwegian specialties.
She was preceded in death by an infant sister.
Survivors include two sons, Randall of Litchfield, Maine, and Reid of Frankfurt, Germany; and a brother, Jerry Berve of Billings.
Memorials may benefit Lupus Foundation of America, Box 631047, Baltimore, MD 21263 or www.lupus.org/Memorial Donation.
Sheridan-native Kenneth Yellowtail Jr., 50, of Wyola, Mont., died Tuesday, April 7, 2009, from injuries sustained in an automobile accident. Funeral services are 1 p.m. Saturday at Wyola Baptist Church. Burial will follow in Lodge Grass (Mont.) Cemetery. Bullis Mortuary of Hardin, Mont., is in charge of arrangements. Born Dec. 20, 1958, in Sheridan to Kenneth and Christine Lujan Yellowtail Sr., he grew up in the Wyola area and graduated from Intermountain Intertribal High School in Brigham City, Utah. While in high school he excelled in football, was recognized as an exceptional quarterback, and was selected to attend a quarterback school in California. Following his education, he worked in the Tucson, Ariz., area for 11 years as a miner and welder and later became a journeyman carpenter. He returned to Montana and worked as a self-employed carpenter. Mr. Yellowtail was a member of Wyola Baptist Church and a child of the Greasy Mouth Clan. He enjoyed socializing with his family and friends and swimming and fishing in the Little Big Horn River. He also enjoyed attending the annual Sheridan rodeo, camping, branding, working on the family ranch, and giving nicknames and teasing or joking with his nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father. Survivors include his mother; two sons, Richard and Kevin Yellowtail; two sisters, Irene Yellowtail of Wyola and Karen McKenzie of Lodge Grass; two brothers, Randy of Alaska and Wailes Yellowtail of Ranchester; one grandson, Kevin Jr.; numerous nieces and nephews; and extended family.
Charlie Wolfer, 82, of Sheridan died Thursday, April 9,
2009, at Sheridan VA Medical Center. Cremation has taken place. Cremains will
be placed with his wife in Sheridan Municipal Cemetery. Kane Funeral Home is in
charge of arrangements
Clarice Ann Anderson, 60, of Sheridan died Friday, April 10, 2009, in Sheridan Memorial Hospital. Funeral service will be 10 a.m. Wednesday at Ranchester Community Church with the Rev. Dan Keller officiating. Interment will be in Alamo, N.D. Arrangements are with Champion Ferries Funeral Home. Memorial may benefit Lupus Foundation of America, Box 631047, Baltimore, MD 21263.
No new obituaries reported.
Carl Frank McCoy, 95, of Sheridan died Tuesday, April 7, 2009, at Sheridan VA Medical Center after a brief illness, according to family. Funeral service is 10 a.m. Monday at Champion Ferries Funeral Home with Chaplain Arden Haeffner officiating. Burial will follow in Sheridan Municipal Cemetery with military graveside rites by the Wyoming National Guard and Sheridan American Legion. A luncheon at the Sheridan Senior Center will follow the graveside service. Born Jan. 4, 1914, in Sheridan to Charles and Mary (Lyle) McCoy, he attended Sheridan schools and graduated from Sheridan High School. He served in World War II as a tank driver in Italy and North Africa for three years and received the Purple Heart. After the war, he returned to Sheridan and worked 30 years for Cook Ford. He enjoyed wildlife, his garden, his Kubota tractor, and his favorite cat, Charles. He was preceded in death by three brothers, Lyle, Bob and Jack; and three sisters, Grace, Helen and Ester. Survivors include numerous nieces and nephews. Memorials may benefit Sheridan Cat & Dog Shelter or Sheridan Senior Center.
Loretta J. Ley, 72, of Sheridan died Wednesday, April 8, 2009, at Sheridan Memorial Hospital. Cremation has taken place. A memorial service is 10 a.m. Tuesday at First Baptist Church in Sheridan. Kane Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. Born in Hardin, Mont., on July 5, 1936, to Jake and Linda Butkay, she moved with her family to Sheridan in 1942, attended Holy Name School, and graduated from Sheridan High School in 1954. She married Marvin Ley at Holy Name Catholic Church on Feb. 12, 1955. She worked at Safeway, Boyd’s Supermarket, and as a secretary for Ley’s Water Well Drilling and Service. Mrs. Ley enjoyed travel, playing cards and the mountains. She also took great joy in being a homemaker and grandmother. She was preceded in death by two sisters, Carol Ann Butkay and Barbara Ketcham. Survivors include her husband; a son, Robert Ley of Sheridan; a daughter, Karen Kjerstad of Sheridan; two sisters, Charlene White of Soldotna, Alaska, and Marilyn Murphy of Story; five grandsons; two great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews. Memorials may benefit Dayton Community Hall, c/o Sally Hager, 108 South Fork Ave., Dayton, WY 82836.
Loretta J. Ley, 72, of Sheridan died Wednesday, April 8, 2009, at Sheridan Memorial Hospital.
Cremation arrangements were with Kane Funeral Home.
Memorial services will be 10 a.m. Tuesday at First Baptist Church with the Rev. Ken Doolin officiating.
James J. Belus, 74, of Sheridan died Tuesday, April 7, 2009, at Sheridan VA Medical Center. Visitation will be 8-9:30 a.m. Friday at Kane Funeral Home. Services are 10 a.m. Friday at the funeral home with the Rev. Tom Ogg officiating. Burial will follow at Mount Hope Cemetery in Big Horn. Born March 30, 1935, in Sheridan to Joseph and Helen (Kobielusz) Belus, he graduated from Sheridan High School in 1953, Sheridan College in 1959, and received a Bachelor of Science degree from the College of Agriculture at the University of Wyoming in 1963. He entered the U.S. Army in 1955 and graduated as a superior student in demolition, mines, and booby traps from Army engineering school. He served with the Company A 41st Engineering Battalion 10th Division, U.S. Army in Germany. Before the Berlin Airlift he was stationed on the “Iron Curtain” on the German border with orders to destroy bridges should Russian troops advance into West Germany. He received an honorable discharge in 1958. He married Sandra M. (Webber) Belus in 1961. He was superintendent of the University of Wyoming Experimental Farm in Torrington from 1963 to 1966. Returning to Sheridan, he worked for the U.S. Post Office and ranched south of Sheridan and on the family ranch on Dutch Creek. An original member of The Peters Grazing Association, he took pride in his Black Angus cattle, was an avid fisherman, and enjoyed yearly goose-hunting trips in Torrington with special friends. He was preceded in death by a sister, Florence, and a granddaughter, Jessica Nolene. Survivors include his wife; his mother; two sons, David Belus and Mark Belus of Wyarno; a brother, Robert Belus of Banner; four grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. In lieu of flowers, memorials may benefit donor’s choice.
Gladys Arilla (Carpenter) White, 100, died Friday, April 3, 2009, at Sheridan Manor. Services will be April 17 in Hutchinson, Kan., at Fairlawn Cemetery in the mausoleum where she will be interred next to her husband. Local arrangements are with Kane Funeral Home. Born June 6, 1908, in Saint Louis to Minnie Mae Tally and Charles Fayette Carpenter, she moved with her family briefly to Hutchinson, then Crow Agency, Mont., due to her father's employment with the U.S. government. The family then moved to Livingston, Mont. At age 18, she returned to Hutchinson, where she married John Lloyd White on June 24, 1933. They had two daughters. After the death of her husband in 1974, she moved to Sheridan to be near family. On her 100th birthday, she received a birthday card signed by President Bush and his wife thanking her for her centennial of U.S. citizenship. She credited her longevity to hard work. She enjoyed sewing, ceramics, cross-stitching, gardening, woodworking, waitressing, clerking, and playing cribbage. She was a member of First United Methodist Church, Church Circle, and Eastern Star. She was preceded in death by her husband; a grandson, Tip Skinner; five brothers, Bud, Everett, Alfred, Raymond, and R.V. Survivors include two children, Connie Zempel of Sheridan and Dorothy Skinner of Pensacola, Fla.; two siblings, Custer Stanton Carpenter of Temecula, Calif., and Elva Ellen Duffield of Dallas; five grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews. Memorials may benefit First United Methodist Church, 215 W. Works St., Sheridan.
Gordon Otto “Pete” Telford, 79, of Sheridan died Wednesday, March 25, 2009, at St. Vincent’s Hospital in Billings. Cremation has taken place. A memorial wake service is 4 p.m. Friday at West Leopard Street Gentleman’s Club. Born Aug. 6, 1929, in Onida, S.D., to Charles and Velva (Cotrill) Telford, he grew up and attended school in Onida, graduating from high school in 1948. After high school he worked various jobs, entering the Navy in 1950. He was honorably discharged in 1951 and married Loretta June (Alleman) in 1953. Mr. Telford worked as a heavy-equipment operator for many years, retiring from Decker Coal in Decker, Mont. He enjoyed playing cards, woodworking, drawing, spending time with family and friends, and living life to the fullest. He was a member of a country band, Warnes Western Swing, in the late 1950s and early 1960s. He was preceded in death by two sisters, Della Faye and Patty; two brothers, Pod and Don; and an infant son, Charles Allen. Survivors include four sons, Robert “Bob” of Sheridan, James “Ringo” of Bloomfield, N.M., William “Bill” of Chugiak, Alaska, and Virgil “Bud” of Sheridan; one daughter, Lanette of Pierre, S.D.; two sisters, Chuckie of Alpine, Calif., and Terry of Modesto, Calif.; 11 grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews. In lieu of flowers, the family requests remembrance cards be sent to the Telford family, 1475 Leopard St., Sheridan. Arrangements were with Cremation and Funeral Home in Billings.
Carl Frank McCoy, 95, died Tuesday, April 7, 2009, at Sheridan VA Medical Center. Arrangements are pending with Champion Ferries Funeral Home.
Memorial services for Douglas Paul Swanson, 53, of Sheridan are 2 p.m. Friday at Sheridan VA Medical Center Chapel with Chaplain Arden Haeffner officiating.
Mr. Swanson died Sunday, March 29, 2009, at his residence. His death notice appeared in the April 1 Sheridan Press.
Arrangements are with Champion Ferries Funeral Home.
James Belus, 74, of Sheridan died Tuesday, April 7, 2009, at Sheridan VA Medical Center. Funeral services are 10 a.m. Friday at Kane Funeral Home with the Rev. Tom Ogg officiating. Burial will follow at Mount Hope Cemetery in Big Horn.
Former Sheridan resident Esther “Bea” Leugers, 88, of Manheim, Pa., died Tuesday, March 31, 2009, at Lancaster (Pa.) General Hospital. Funeral services were in Lancaster with arrangements by the Charles F. Snyder Funeral Home and Chapel. Born in Brooklyn, N.Y., to Jack L. and Beatrice (Carpenter) Castle, she was the wife of Raymond G. Leugers, who died in 1989. She was a Catholic and a homemaker who loved traveling, the Wyoming mountains, the beach, gardening, birds, seafood, and most of all time with her family. She was preceded in death by two grandchildren and one great-grandchild. Survivors include three sons, Raymond G. Leugers of Sheridan, Bruce E. Leugers of Millersville, Pa., and David B. Leugers of Newtown Square, Pa.; two daughters, Patricia L. Erickson of New Tripoli, Pa., and Christine J. Keim of Lititz, Pa.; 10 grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren. To send an online condolence or for more information, visit www.snyderfuneralhome.com.
Former Sheridan resident Steven Hayes, 55, of Cambridge, Wis., died Friday, April 3, 2009, at his home of a cardiac event, according to family. Visitation is 5-7 p.m. today and one hour before funeral services. Funeral services are 11 a.m. Wednesday at East Koshkonong Lutheran Church. Born in Lewiston, Idaho, he spent much of his life in the Western United States working as a civil engineer until moving to rural Cambridge in 2004. He married Karen Christianson on July 20, 1988. He enjoyed fishing, horseback riding, the mountains and working with animals. Survivors include his wife; three children, Nathan Levi Meirer of Wyoming, Heidi Marie Buond of Colorado, and Justin Hayes of Utah; and two grandchildren. Memorials may benefit Koshkonong Lutheran Church.
John W. Shaw, 52, of Sheridan died Sunday, April 5, 2009, at Sheridan Memorial Hospital. Per his request, cremation has taken place and no services are scheduled. Kane Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
A graveside memorial service will be 10 a.m. Friday in the Elks section of Sheridan Municipal Cemetery for Thelma C. Huff, 93, of Sheridan. The Rev. Kevin Jones will officiate, and a luncheon will follow at Story Woman’s Club. Mrs. Huff died March 3 in Westview Health Care Center. Her obituary appeared in the March 6 Sheridan Press. Memorials may benefit donor’s choice. Arrangements are with Champion Ferries Funeral Home.
Margaret C. Killworth, 82, of Sheridan died Friday, April 3, 2009, at Sheridan Manor. Rosary will be recited 7 p.m. Tuesday at Kane Funeral Home. Mass of Christian Burial will be 10 a.m. Wednesday at Holy Name Catholic Church with the Rev. Ron Stolcis officiating. Born June 10, 1926, in Appleton, Wis., to Matthew and Rose (Steger) Smith, she married Ed Redle on Feb. 9, 1952, in Appleton. The couple moved to Sheridan, where they raised two children. After Mr. Redle’s death, she married Pat Killworth. One of the highlights of her life was a hole-in-one at the Buffalo Golf Course on June 19, 2001. She served on the mental health board and was a member of the Altar and Rosary Society, Friends of the Library, and the Book Review Club. In addition to her first husband, she was preceded in death by two sisters, Irene Redle and Sister Grace Smith; and a brother, Richard Smith. Survivors include her husband; a son, Matt Redle of Sheridan; a daughter, Peggy Redle of Denver; and numerous stepchildren, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Memorials may benefit Sheridan County Fulmer Public Library Foundation, 335 W. Alger Ave., Sheridan, WY 82801 or Holy Name Catholic Church, 260 E. Loucks St., Sheridan.
Robert J. Prusak, 79, of Sheridan died Thursday, April 2, 2009, at Sheridan VA Medical Center. Cremation has taken place and private family services will be later. Burial of cremains will be in Sheridan Elks Cemetery. Kane Funeral Home is in charge arrangements. Born May 24, 1929, in Joliet, Ill., to Andrew and Elizabeth Prusak, he attended Ulm and Sheridan schools. He married Nancy Fryberger on July 30, 1954. Mr. Prusak was employed by the original Stevens Fryberger Co. until 1960, when he and his wife bought a ranch on the Ulm Divide, where they remained throughout their lives. He served on the Agriculture and Soil Conservation committees, with the 160th Infantry, and later with the 8th Army Military Police in Korea. He was a life member of the Elks, Scottish Rite, Kalif Shrine, and Masonic lodges and St. Peter’s Episcopal Church. An award-winning country western performer, Mr. Prusak played with various bands and at many jams and benefits. He was a member of the Wyoming and Black Hills Country Music associations. He was a licensed pilot and in 1999 received a 50-year pin with the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association. He enjoyed his livestock and ranch work. He was preceded in death by his wife. Survivors include one son, Robert E. Prusak of Sheridan; a brother, Andrew J. Prusak, of Bend, Ore; and several nephews. Memorials may benefit Sheridan Historical Society, P.O. Box 73, Sheridan, WY 82801 or donor’s choice.
Janet May, 94, of Buffalo died Wednesday, April 1, 2009, at Amie Holt Care Center in Buffalo. Visitation will be 1-9 p.m. Sunday and 8-9:30 a.m. Monday followed by services at 10 a.m. at Adams Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Bob McHenry officiating. Graveside services and burial will be in Sheridan Municipal Cemetery. Born July 30, 1914, in Sheridan to Henry and Florence Pate Warriner, as a small child she lived on a homestead in Whittemer Draw near Clearmont. Her father died in 1917, and her mother attended the University of Wyoming and became a teacher. She lived with her paternal grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. W.S. Warriner, on a ranch on Crazy Woman Creek and also in Sheridan. Mrs. May attended schools in Idaho, Wyoming, and Nebraska for the first three years of school. In 1923, her mother married W. Clyde Sheely and they moved to Seward, Neb., where she attended school. After graduating, she attended the University of Nebraska from 1932-1935. In 1935 she taught at Highland School north of Newcastle, where she met Clyde E. May. They were married in Custer, S.D., on May 15, 1936. They moved to Cody, where they lived from 1936-1942. During World War II the family lived in Lincoln, Neb., Buffalo, N.Y., and St. Louis. They moved to Sheridan in April 1945, then to Buffalo in 1969. She attended the University of Wyoming from 1967-1968, graduating with a bachelor’s degree in education. She taught fourth grade in Buffalo from 1968 to June 1977, when she resigned due to family illness. In Sheridan, she was active in the Methodist Church, PTA, Daughters of the American Revolution, United Church Women, Order of the Eastern Star Friendship Chapter 51, and a charter member of Cheeri Chix Homemakers Club. In Buffalo, she was active in the Wesleyan Church, AARP, Johnson County Historical Society, Delta Kappa Gamma, and remained active in Friendship Chapter. She was preceded in death by her husband in 1989, a daughter, two brothers and a sister. Survivors include a son, C. Willard May of Queen Creek, Ariz.; six grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; and four great-great-grandchildren. Donations may benefit the Wesleyan Church in care of Adams Funeral Home, 351 N. Adams Ave., Buffalo WY 82834.
Sheridan native Wendell “Oakly” Neard, 76, died Wednesday, April 1, 2009, at Eastern Montana Veterans Home in Glendive. A memorial service with military honors is 11 a.m. today at United Methodist Church of Glendive. Interment will be at a later date in Sheridan. Silvernale-Silha Funeral Home of Glendive is in charge of arrangements. Born Dec. 1, 1932, in Sheridan to Frank and Arlene (Tibbets) Neard, he was raised and educated in Sheridan, graduating with the class of 1952. He joined the U.S. Air Force and served overseas during the Korean War. After his honorable discharge, he returned to Sheridan, where he met Erlys Hunt. They were married June 16, 1958. The couple moved to Minot, N.D., where he attended Minot State University for two years before transferring to Ellendale Teachers College, part of the University of North Dakota, where he graduated with the class of 1963. The couple moved to Sawyer, N.D., for his first teaching job. Three years later they moved to Kaycee, remaining there for the next 21 years. Before retiring, they moved to Lignite, N.D., where he taught one more year. During his career, he taught high school shop class, elementary through high school physical education, and was a high school basketball coach. After retirement, the couple moved to Minot for nine years before moving to Glendive in 1999. Mr. Neard enjoyed woodworking, painting and was known as an excellent finish carpenter. He was proud to own one share of the Boston Celtics and was good friends with the late singer Chris Ledoux. He was a member of the Kaycee Lions Club for 21 years and a club officer for 10 years. He was preceded in death by a grandson, Aaron T. Jr.; one brother, J.O.; and one sister, Bernice Plumb. Survivors include his wife of Glendive; one daughter, Wendy Buck of Bismarck, N.D.; one son, Aaron Neard, of Glendive; one sister, Lowene McNeese of Billings; one brother, Alvin Neard of Sheridan; seven grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews. Memorials may benefit Alzheimer’s Research Office, 225 N. Michigan Ave., Floor 17, Chicago, IL 60601-7633. Remembrances and condolences can be shared with the family at www.silvernale-silhafuneralhome.com.
Gladys Arilla (Carpenter) White, 100, of Sheridan died Friday, April 3, 2009, at Sheridan Manor. Services are pending in Hutchinson, Kan., where she will be buried next to her husband in Fairlawn Cemetery. Kane Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. Memorials may benefit First United Methodist Church, 215 W. Works St., Sheridan, WY 82801.
Mary Jo Yonkee, 74, of Sheridan died Wednesday, April 1, 2009, at her home. No services are planned. Her remains will be buried in Sheridan Elks Cemetery. Kane Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Margaret C. Killworth, 82, of Sheridan died Friday, April 3, 2009, at Sheridan Manor. Mass of Christian Burial with rosary will be at a later date. Kane Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Frances Roberta Smith, 88, of Buffalo died Tuesday, March 31, 2009, at Johnson County Healthcare Center. Visitation is 1-9 p.m. Sunday and 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Monday at Adams Funeral Home Chapel. Services are 2 p.m. Monday at the chapel with Pastors Don Paulson and John Constantine officiating. Burial and graveside services will follow at Willow Grove Cemetery. Born Jan. 16, 1921, in Rocky Point, Wyo., to George and Ella Jones, she attended school in Rocky Point and graduated from Gillette High School. She earned a teaching certificate and taught school for several years. She married Paul C. Smith on April 22, 1943, in Broadus, Mont., and they resided on a ranch near Spotted Horse. The couple had a second ranch south of Sheridan where they lived from 1948 until 1955. They moved back to Spotted Horse, where they lived and ranched until retiring to Buffalo in May 1977. Mr. Smith died in May 1982, and Mrs. Smith continued living in Buffalo, where she baby-sat for many children. A member of Big Horn Baptist Church, she enjoyed garage sales and spending time with family. In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by an infant son, two sisters, and two brothers. Survivors include a brother, Ben Jones of Spearfish, S.D.; one stepson, Clifford Smith of Sheridan; two stepdaughters, Maxine Yule of Austin, Texas, and Jean Samsel of Scottsdale, Ariz.; several grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews. Memorials may benefit Big Horn Baptist Church in care of Adams Funeral Home at 351 N. Adams in Buffalo.
Rachel Schmidt, 95, of Sheridan died Thursday, April 2, 2009 in Westview Health Care Center. Arrangements are pending with Champion Ferries Funeral Home.
Lolita Mae “Lee” Anderson, 93, of Sheridan died Sunday, March 29, 2009, in Sheridan Memorial Hospital. Cremation has taken place. A private family service will be later in Loveland, Colo. Arrangements are with Champion Ferries Funeral Home. Mrs. Anderson was born May 15, 1915, in Lenox, Iowa, to Joe and Mary (Hearing) Boltinghouse. She married Max Mills Anderson in 1938. She started work with Western Light and Telephone as a phone operator. During World War II, she worked for the federal government in Washington, D.C. After the war, she had a radio program in Loveland called “Linger with Lee.” She later moved to Denver and worked for KIMN Radio as the “weather girl.” In 1973, she moved to Greeley, Colo., and began a 20-year career as the surgical coordinator with Northern Colorado Ear, Nose, and Throat Clinic. Mr. Anderson died in 1991 and Mrs. Anderson retired and moved to Sheridan. Until 2004, she and her daughter owned and operated North Main Antiques. Survivors include a son, Terry Lynn of Fort Collins, Colo.; a daughter Vicki Taylor of Banner; three granddaughters; and one great-grandson.
Sheridan native Audre Rae Beckenhauer, 79, of Lincoln, Neb., died Monday, March 16, 2009, in Lincoln. Funeral services were March 20 at St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church in Lincoln with arrangements by Lincoln Memorial Funeral Home. Born Dec. 9, 1929, in Sheridan to Max and Dixie (Eversole) Lowe, she was married 39 years to Dr. William Beckenhauer in Sheridan. She attended Colorado Women’s College in Denver and earned a bachelor’s degree in biochemistry at the University of Wyoming, where she was a member of Delta Delta Delta Sorority. She earned a master’s degree at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in history and taught in Lincoln public schools. She worked as a medical technologist with the Fort Collins, Colo., hospital, the Student Health Center at UNL, and the community blood bank. Mrs. Beckenhauer was a member of Eastern Star, Daughters of the Nile, and Daughters of the American Revolution. She enjoyed travel, golf and bowling. She was preceded in death by her husband. Survivors include two sons, Joel Beckenhauer of Lincoln and Kurt Beckenhauer of Washington, D.C.; a daughter, Barbara Beckenhauer of Lincoln; and two grandchildren.
Oscar Benson, 90, of Sheridan died Sunday, March 29, 2009, in Sheridan Manor. Cremation has taken place and private graveside services will be later. Born July 13, 1918, in Big Horn to Emil and Lora (Hepp) Benson, he graduated from Big Horn High School and married Betty Coughran on Feb. 24, 1956, in Hardin, Mont. Mr. Benson spent his life ranching in Big Horn and on Youngs Creek. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and reading. He was preceded in death by his wife, one brother and two sisters. Survivors include two daughters, Pam Stevenson of Sheridan and Cathy Salveson of Chandler, Ariz.; two sisters, Shelia Garber of California and Karleen Anderson of Laramie; four grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; and three great-great-grandchildren. Arrangements are with Champion Ferries Funeral Home. Memorials may benefit Sheridan Senior Center Meals on Wheels, 211 Smith St., Sheridan, WY 82801.
Douglas P. Swanson, 53, of Sheridan died Sunday, March 29, 2009, at his residence. Arrangements are with Champion Ferries Funeral Home.
Lolita M. Anderson, 94, of Sheridan died Sunday, March 29, 2009, in Sheridan Memorial Hospital. Arrangements are with Champion Ferries Funeral Home.
Dorothy J. Stampka, 77, of Sheridan died Tuesday, March 31, 2009, in Sheridan Memorial Hospital. Arrangements are with Champion Ferries Funeral Home.