Sheridan County's Daily NEWSpaper
Sheridan County's Daily NEWSpaper
Webspinner's Note: Obituaries are archived as to the DAY THE NOTICE WAS IN OUR NEWSPAPER.
Dixie L. Holmes, 74, of Sheridan died Saturday, Dec. 26, 2009, at her residence. A viewing is 6-7 p.m. Jan. 7 at Kane Funeral Home. A celebration of life is 2 p.m. Jan. 8 at the funeral home with a reception following at the Elks Lodge. Burial is in Sheridan Elks Cemetery. Born March 22, 1935, in Havre, Mont., to Richard H. "Dick" and Isabelle R. (Achenbach) Ellis, she graduated from Sheridan High School in 1953 and married George B. "Sonny" Holmes on Oct. 10, 1953, at the Methodist Church here. Before moving to Sheridan in 1977, she lived at the family ranch, Rancholme Cattle Co., in Decker, Mont. From 2000 to June 2003, she lived in Arizona. Mrs. Holmes enjoyed being a full-time wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. She also enjoyed dancing, playing cards, video poker machines, rodeos, fishing, travel, meeting and learning about people and their families, and telling good jokes. She especially enjoyed going to Las Vegas with her husband. She was a member of the Benevolent Patriotic Order of Does. She was preceded in death by a son, Mark Dennis Holmes, in 1973 and her husband in 2002. Survivors include a daughter, Michele Denise “Shelly” Holmes of Cave Creek, Ariz.; a brother, Rick Ellis of Cave Creek; two grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews. In lieu of flowers, memorials may benefit Elks Youth Rodeo, P.O. Box 624, Sheridan, WY 82801 or Hospice of the Big Horns, 1401 W. Fifth St., Sheridan.
The funeral for Walter Schlenker, 85, Wishek, ND will be Saturday, January 2, 2010 at 10:30 AM at St. Luke Lutheran Church, Wishek, ND. Visitation will be Friday, January 1, 2010 from with a prayer service at 7:00 PM at Dahlstrom Funeral Home, Wishek, ND. Walter died Tuesday, December 29, 2009 at the Wishek
Community Hospital, Wishek, ND. Dahlstrom Funeral Home of Wishek, ND entrusted with arrangements. Walter Schlenker son of Dan and Ella (Kusler) Schlenker was born February 8, 1924 at Wishek, ND. Walter grew to manhood in Wishek and attended Wishek Public Schools. He started working at Schlenker Garage at the age of 13. Walter married Bernice Kopplin June 23, 1946 at the Lehr Baptist Church, Lehr, ND. Walter became a master mechanic and was shop foreman for 25 years. Walter joined the Wishek Volunteer Fire Department in 1942 and served 21 years. He also served on the Wishek city council Board for 8 years and served as Director of the Association of Commerce for 5 years. One of Walter’s pet projects was the annual Sauerkraut Day celebration. Walter was known as Mr. Fix-Itin south central North Dakota. In 1963 Walter accepted employment as the plant engineer at the Wishek Community Hospital. Walter was a Charter EMT member of the Wishek Ambulance service and served on the ambulance squad. Walter was a long time member of St. Luke Lutheran church at
Wishek, ND. Walter died Tuesday, December 29, 2009 at the Wishek Community Hospital, Wishek, ND. He was 85 years old. Walter is survived by his wife Bernice, Wishek, ND; daughter, Vernell (Jerry) Lehr, Fargo, ND; two sons, Steve (Beth) Schlenker, Sheridan, WY; Robert (Kimberly) Schlenker, Bozeman, MT; three grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; two brothers, Milbert Schlenker, Lake Wood, WA; Daniel (Dorothy) Schlenker, St. Peter, MN; two sisters, Meta (Shorty) Heiser, Mesa, AZ and Donna (Paul) Gall, Ashley, ND. Walter was preceded in death by his parents and one brother Arnold.
No obituaries reported.
Mabel A. Parker, 94, died Thursday, Dec. 24, 2009, in her Sheridan home. Private family service will be later. Arrangements are with Champion Ferries Funeral Home. Born Oct. 17, 1915, in Healey, Kan., to Mr. and Mrs. Theodore Thon, she grew up and attended schools in Kansas. She married William Parker on June 3, 1936. They moved to Sheridan in the late 1930s. Mrs. Parker cared for elderly people for several years. She enjoyed gardening, shopping and watching TV. She attended church at the Family Life Center and the Salvation Army. She was preceded in death by her husband in 1994; a daughter, Gladys Ann; and a brother. Survivors include a daughter, Dorothy Darco, and a son, Charles Parker, both of Sheridan; four grandchildren; and 13 great-grandchildren.
Frederick Valentine, 73, died Wednesday, December 23, 2009, in his Sheridan residence. Arrangements are pending with Champion Ferries Funeral Home.
Longtime Sheridan resident Jessie F. Mitchell, 85, died Sunday, Dec. 27, 2009, in Sheridan Memorial Hospital. A celebration of his life is planned later. Born Nov. 17, 1924, she was preceded in death by her husband, Kenny Mitchell, two grandchildren, and several siblings. Survivors include four children, Sandra Marmar of Woodstock, Vt., and Thomas and Larry Mitchell and Victoria Sarokon, all of Sheridan; 10 grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild. Memorials may benefit Sheridan Wesleyan Church or Sheridan Senior Center.
Former Sheridan resident Nancy “Ruth” Ainsworth, 80, died Friday, Dec. 25, 2009, in Greeley, Colo. Memorial service is 9:30 a.m. Wednesday at Cornerstone United Methodist Church in Watertown, S.D. Born July 27, 1929, to Harold and Bertha Houck in Wilmington, Del., she attended school in Wilmington, graduated from Sullins College in Bristol, Va., and worked for a short time at DuPont Corp., where she met Frank Ainsworth. They were married Dec. 26, 1949, and moved to Logan, Utah, where Mr. Ainsworth finished college at Utah State. They then moved around the Midwest before settling in Sheridan, where they raised five children. They divorced in 1972. Mrs. Ainsworth worked many years sewing drapes at her Sheridan home. She retired in 2001. In 2003, she was diagnosed with cancer and moved to Watertown to live with family. A Christian, she enjoyed her children and grandchildren, cooking, sewing and crafting gifts, her flower garden, playing Skip-bo, reading, and especially celebrating the holidays. She was preceded in death by a daughter, Susan Allen. Survivors include three daughters, Janet Crego of Greeley, Christy Kinney of Watertown, and Laurie Warich of Milford, Mass.; a son, Jeffrey Ainsworth of Brighton, Colo.; 12 grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren. Arrangements are with Moser Funeral and Cremation Service in Greeley.
James L. (Jim) Benepe Jr., MD, 82, of Sheridan died Wednesday, December 23, 2009, at his residence. Jim was born November 3, 1927, in St. Paul, MN to James and Gladys (Bond) Benepe Sr. He graduated high school in 1945, served in the Navy V-5 Program from 1945-1948 in Dickinson, ND, graduated from Macalester College, St. Paul MN in 1952, and Washington University Medical School, St. Louis MO in 1956. During his medical residency at the V.A. Medical Hospital in St.
Paul, he met and later married Sheila Hanson, in 1957, they divorced in 1976. He established his lifelong career in the V.A. Hospital system with a brief stay in Palo Alto, CA before settling in Sheridan in 1959 and remaining in Sheridan except for six years in Northampton, MA from 1967-1973. His titles while in Sheridan were Psychologist, Chief of Staff, Director and Chief of Psychiatry until his retirement in 1987. He was also active in and retired a Full Colonel in the Army Reserve. He married Mary (Johnson) Amundson in 1989. His passions in life were golf–winning various Club Championships, bird hunting, big game hunting, and all kinds of fishing. He also enjoyed telling jokes, cooking a good meal, a glass of wine, classical music, and the occasional poker game. He was preceded in death by a brother Dick in 2000. Survivors include his wife Mary, sons Jim (Barbara) Benepe III - Sheridan and Mark Benepe-Portland OR, a brother Tom, sisters Barbara and Portia and granddaughter Amanda. Funeral services are at 11:30 a.m., Wednesday, December 30, 2009, at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church with Father Kevin Jones officiating. A reception will immediately follow at the Sheridan Country Club. Cremation has taken place. Memorials may benefit the Sheridan Senior Citizens Center, 211 Smith St., Sheridan, WY 82801. Kane Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements.
James L. “Jim” Benepe Jr., 82, of Sheridan died Wednesday, Dec. 23, 2009, at his residence. Cremation has taken place. Funeral services are 11:30 a.m. Wednesday at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church with the Rev. Kevin Jones officiating. A reception will follow at Sheridan Country Club. Born Nov. 3, 1927, in St. Paul, Minn., to James and Gladys (Bond) Benepe Sr., he graduated from high school in 1945 and served in the Navy V-5 Program from 1945-1948 in Dickinson, N.D. He graduated from Macalester College in St. Paul in 1952 and from Washington University Medical School in St. Louis in 1956. During his medical residency at the Veterans Administration hospital in St. Paul, he met Sheila Hanson. They married in 1957 and divorced in 1976. Dr. Benepe had a career in the VA medical care system, working briefly in Palo Alto, Calif., then in Sheridan starting in 1959. He was with the VA in Northampton, Mass., from 1967-1973, then returned to Sheridan. He retired in 1987. While at Sheridan VA Medical Center, he was employed as psychologist, chief of staff, and director and chief of psychiatry. He married Mary (Johnson) Amundson in 1989. He was active in the Army Reserve, retiring as a full colonel. He enjoyed hunting, fishing and golf and won various club championships. He also enjoyed telling jokes, cooking a good meal, classical music, and an occasional poker game. He was preceded in death by a brother, Dick, in 2000. Survivors include his wife; sons Jim Benepe III of Sheridan and Mark Benepe of Portland, Ore.; a brother, Tom; two sisters, Barbara and Portia; and one granddaughter. Memorials may benefit Sheridan Senior Citizens Center, 211 Smith St., Sheridan, WY 82801.
Dixie L. Holmes, 73, of Sheridan died Saturday, Dec. 26, 2009, at her residence. Arrangements are pending with Kane Funeral Home.
Services for Kathryn Ann “Kay” Crosby, 86, of Sheridan that were planned today have been rescheduled. Funeral service is 1 p.m. Tuesday at St. John's Episcopal Church in Deadwood, S.D., with the Rev. Thomas Campbell officiating. Burial will be in Black Hills National Cemetery in Sturgis, S.D. Mrs. Crosby’s obituary appeared in the Dec. 23 Sheridan Press.
A celebration of life for Tristan Schomer will be held at 11:00 a.m., Monday, December 28, 2009 at Family Life Church with Pastor Martin Crump officiating. Burial will follow at Mount Pisgah Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 4:00-7:00 p.m., Sunday, December 27, 2009 at Gillette Memorial Chapel. Tristan Schomer, age 13, of Gillette, Wyoming passed away on Tuesday December 22, 2009, at home surrounded by family and friends. Tristan was born November 1, 1996, the son of Greg and Becca (Bartow) Schomer in Sheridan, Wyoming. As a baby Tristan was diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy. He struggled with many medical
conditions throughout his life. He was cared for at home by his family, aunt Bridget and grandma Sharon. Tristan found joy in loud noises and visits from family and friends. He was a fighter until the end of his long battle. Tristan will be missed by all who knew and loved him. Tristan is survived by his mother and father, Becca Schomer and Blair Schwartz; biological father, Greg Schomer; sister, Mikayla Schomer; all of Gillette, Wyoming; brother, Chris Schwartz of Hutchinson, Minnesota; grandparents, Linda Smith of Lead, South Dakota; Julie Schomer of Gillette, Wyoming; Butch (Deb) Schomer of Elko, Nevada; Jerry (Sharon) Schwartz of Gillette, Wyoming; and Tim Bartow of Joplin, Missouri; great grandparents, Harry (Ruth) Wolff and Shirley Schomer all of Gillette, Wyoming; Martin (Wanda) Heining of Minneapolis, Minnesota; several aunts, uncles, cousins as well as many doctors, nurses, and therapists. He was preceeded in death by his paternal great grandparents, Albert Leroy and Marilyn Bartow. Memorials and condolences may be sent in Tristan’s name in care of Gillette Memorial Chapel, 210 W. 5th Street, Gillette, Wyoming 82716, or via the internet at www.gillettememorialchapel.com.
No obituaries reported.
No newspaper printed.
Ginger Lacek, 77, of Sheridan died Monday, Dec. 21, 2009, at Sheridan Memorial Hospital. A viewing will be 6-7 p.m. Sunday followed by a Christian wake service at 7 p.m. at Kane Funeral Home with the Rev. Ron Stolcis officiating. Funeral Mass is 10 a.m. Monday at Holy Name Catholic Church. Burial is in Sheridan Municipal Cemetery in the Elks section with a reception to follow for family and friends in the Catholic Church Parish Hall. Born April 4, 1932, in Sheridan, to Lee and Belva Smith, she married Paul Lacek Jr. on Feb. 16, 1952. She enjoyed playing bingo, travel, crafts and taking care of children (and her grandchildren) at Marion Daycare Center, where she worked for 30 years. She was preceded in death by a daughter, Ginger Depue, and three grandchildren. Survivors include her husband and eight children, Michael Wayne Lacek, Belle Maddux, Sherrie Shanor, Pattie Burgess, Paul “Shane” Lacek, John Lacek, Cindy Malyurek and Laurie Renish. Memorials may benefit Holy Name Catholic School, 337 E. Burkitt St., Sheridan, WY 82801.
James Benepe Jr., 82, of Sheridan died Wednesday, Dec. 23, 2009, at his residence. Arrangements are pending with Kane Funeral Home.
Tyler J. Hodgins, 14, foster son of Jan and Craig Wetterlund of Buffalo, died Monday, Dec. 21, 2009, in Buffalo. Visitation is 1-9 p.m. Monday at Adams Funeral Home Chapel. A celebration of life is 10 a.m. Tuesday at the new Wesleyan Church on North Main Street in Buffalo with the Rev. Bob McHenry officiating. Burial will be in Willow Grove Cemetery with graveside services to follow the funeral. Memorials may benefit Bread of Life Food Pantry in care of Adams Funeral Home, 351 N. Adams Ave., Buffalo, WY 82834.
Harold Hobbs, 74, of Sheridan died Tuesday, Dec. 22, 2009, at his home. Arrangements are pending with Kane Funeral Home.
Kathryn Ann “Kay” Crosby, 86, of Sheridan died Sunday, Dec. 20, 2009, at Westview Health Care Center. Funeral service is 11:30 a.m. Monday at St. John's Episcopal Church in Deadwood, S.D., with the Rev. Thomas Campbell officiating. Burial will be in Black Hills National Cemetery in Sturgis, S.D. Born Jan. 23, 1923, in Aberdeen, S.D., to Garrett “Pat” and Anna (Strand) Ryan, she was raised in Deadwood and graduated from Deadwood High School in 1940. She began her business career in Denver at the War Office issuing gas rationing coupons. She married Harold Crosby on March 8, 1943. Mr. Crosby served 28 years in the military, during which time the couple made their home in Germany, Kansas, Hawaii, Wyoming, California, Labrador, Nebraska, and South Dakota. Mrs. Crosby worked as executive secretary to the superintendent of schools in Goose Bay, Labrador, and as an assistant librarian at Stevens High School in Rapid City. She enjoyed tole painting and crocheting. She and her husband were members of Good Sam and enjoyed traveling the United States in their motor home. Rapid City was their home for 37 years. After her husband died, she moved to Sheridan in 2005 to be near family. She enjoyed attending her grandchildren’s sports events. She was also known as “Besta,” a Norwegian name for grandmother. In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by a sister, Mary Jane Hardin, and a brother, John Ryan, both of Rapid City. Survivors include a son, Mike of Long Beach, Calif.; a daughter, Pat Quist of Sheridan; a brother, Larry Ryan of Deadwood; five grandchildren; two great-granddaughters; two nieces; and four nephews. Memorials may benefit Sheridan Senior Citizens Center, 211 Smith St., Sheridan, WY 82801. Arrangements are with Champion Ferries Funeral Home.
Virginia Lacek, 77, of Sheridan died Monday, Dec. 21, 2009, at Sheridan Memorial Hospital. Arrangements are pending with Kane Funeral Home.
Kathryn Ann “Kay” Crosby, 86, of Sheridan died Sunday, Dec. 20, 2009, at Westview Health Care Center. Funeral service are 11:30 a.m. Monday at St. John’s Episcopal Church in Deadwood, S.D., with the Rev. Thomas Campbell officiating. Interment will be in Black Hills National Cemetery in Sturgis, S.D. Memorials may benefit Sheridan Senior Citizens Center, 211 Smith St., Sheridan, WY 82801. Arrangements are with Champion Ferries Funeral Home.
William “Bill” Bremkamp, 87, of Greenwood Village, Colo., father of James Bremkamp of Sheridan, died Tuesday, Dec. 8, 2009, at his home with his family by his side. A private family memorial is planned later. Born May 22, 1922, in Brighton, Colo., he married Josephine Rombeck on Jan. 29, 1949, in Denver, where he started his lifelong career in the oil and gas business and raised his family. Survivors include his wife; another son, Stephen Bremkamp of Loveland, Colo.; four daughters, Susan Lang of Centennial, Colo., Carole Shank of Durango, Colo., Roxanne Sienkiewicz of Casper, and Karen Carnahan of Fort Collins, Colo.; a sister, Elizabeth Hattendorf of Brighton; 13 grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren. Memorials may benefit The Denver Hospice, 501 S. Cherry Street, Suite 700, Denver, CO 80246-1328, or visit www.thedenverhospice.org.
Kathryn A. Crosby, 86, of Sheridan died Sunday, Dec. 20, 2009, in Westview Health Care Center. Arrangements are pending with Champion Ferries Funeral Home.
Steve Miller, 57, of Buffalo died Saturday, Dec. 19, 2009, in Sheridan Manor. Arrangements are pending with Kane Funeral Home.
DeMaris Gwen Little Chief, 62, of Ashland, Mont., died Monday, Dec. 21, 2009, at Sheridan VA Medical Center. Private services at the family home are later. Arrangements are with Kane Funeral Home.
No obituaries reported.
Former Sheridan resident Gary L. Brunke, 73, died Wednesday, Dec. 16, 2009, in Colorado after a brief illness. Memorial services were at Howe Mortuary in Longmont, Colo. Ashes will be interred at Fort McPherson National Cemetery in Nebraska in the spring. Born Dec. 20, 1935, in Webster County, Neb., he served in the U.S. Navy and was honorably discharged in 1963. He worked more than 20 years for Big Horn Coal in Sheridan. Survivors include his wife, Julie Brunke of Frederick, Colo.; seven children, Laura Krebsbach, Michael Brunke, Patricia Hathorne, Shawna Kulp, Barbara Leavitt, Megan Brunke, Dustin Brunke; and nine grandchildren. Memorials may benefit American Legion Post 169, Campbell, NE 68932.
Former area resident Raymond Alexander McCoul, 73, died Wednesday, Dec. 16, 2009, at Wyoming Medical Center in Casper. Memorial service and flag presentation will be 10 a.m. Friday at Oregon Trail State Cemetery in Evanston. Arrangements are with Newcomer Funeral Home in Casper. Born June 28, 1936, to Minnie (Stout) and Alexander McCoul, he was raised throughout Wyoming, as his father worked jobs from ranching to carpentry. He graduated from Sheridan High School in 1955 and enlisted in the U.S. Air Force. He married Billie Achenbach on Oct. 14, 1972, in Sheridan. Mr. McCoul and his father built a store in Story. He later moved to Elk Mountain to work in the Arch Mineral coal mines. From 1986 to 1995 he and his wife owned Keyhole Marina and Resort. He was preceded in death by a son, Demery; and a sister, Maxine Sipe. Survivors include his wife; seven children, Barbara Hourt, Ray Allen McCoul, Trish Coulter, Shawn McCoul, Roxene Ventling, Dart Ventling and Kevin Ventling; a brother, Alexander McCoul; a sister, Unda Zitsman; and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Donations may benefit the National Rifle Association.
Former Sheridan resident Susan Ainsworth Allen, 58, died Thursday, Nov. 19, 2009, at Tampa General Hospital in Tampa, Fla., after battling sepsis. A memorial service is 10 a.m. Saturday at Faith Evangelical Church, 3145 Sweet Water Drive, in Billings. Born May 17, 1951, to Nancy “Ruth” and Frank Ainsworth in Logan, Utah, she settled with her family in Sheridan early in her life. She left Sheridan after high school to pursue a degree in English at the University of Wyoming. While at UW she met William “Bill” Arthur Allen. When he graduated, the couple moved to Denver and were married Nov. 2, 1973. She was a homemaker who was active in her children’s schools, church, and social programs. In 1991 the family moved to Ghana, West Africa, where Mr. Allen took a senior management position for a gold mine. The family returned to the United States in 1997 and settled in Billings, where Mrs. Allen was active in social groups. She was diagnosed with rapid kidney failure in 1999 due to complications of diabetes and received a kidney donated by her sister Janet. Her husband died in 2003. She moved to Gainesville, Fla., in March to live with her son, Joshua. In addition to her son and sister, survivors include her mother; two daughters, Alexandra and Katherine; two sisters, Christy and Laurie; a brother, Jeff; and one granddaughter. Donations may benefit a memorial for the future education of her grandchildren.
Richard Bybee, 68, died Wednesday, Dec. 16, 2009, at his home south of Buffalo. Visitation is 1-9 p.m. Friday at Adams Funeral Home chapel. Funeral service is 2 p.m. Saturday at Big Horn Baptist Church in Buffalo with the Rev. Clay Alexander officiating. Burial will follow in Willow Grove Cemetery with graveside services. Memorials may benefit Big Horn Baptist Church in care of Adams Funeral Home, 351 N. Adams Ave., Buffalo, WY 82834.
Betty Long, 82, of Buffalo died Tuesday, Dec. 15, 2009, at Johnson County Health Care Center in Buffalo. Funeral services are 11 a.m. Saturday at Adams Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Nancy Brooks officiating. Private burial will follow. Donations may benefit Susie Bowling Lawrence Hospice c/o Adams Funeral Home, 351 N. Adams Ave., Buffalo, WY 82834.
Laura Mae (Hopf) Stevenson, 36, of Sheridan died Wednesday, Dec. 9, 2009, in Sheridan. Vigil service is 6 p.m. Wednesday at Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home Chapel in Forsyth, Mont. Mass of Christian Burial is 10 a.m. Thursday at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Forsyth. Rite of committal will follow in the family lot of the McTague addition in Forsyth Cemetery. Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.stevensonandsons.com.
Harold F. “Sonny” Zentner, 60, of Buffalo died Friday, Dec. 11, 2009, in Sheridan VA Medical Center. Visitation is 1-9 p.m. today and 8-9:30 a.m. Wednesday at Adams Funeral Home Chapel. Funeral service is 10 a.m. Wednesday at the chapel with Pastor Tom Saur officiating. Burial will be in Willow Grove Cemetery with the American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars in charge of military graveside rites. Memorials may benefit the VAMC Respiratory Care Unit c/o Adams Funeral Home, 351 N. Adams Ave., Buffalo, WY 82834.
Carolyn Louise Blyth, 74, of Sheridan died Saturday, Dec. 12, 2009, in Westview Health Care Center from complications of Parkinson’s disease. A memorial service is planned in the spring. Arrangements are with Kane Funeral Home. Born Nov. 14, 1935, in Louisville, Ky., to Lyle and Stella (Bock) Burr, she married Gary Blyth on Dec. 27, 1956, in Ogden, Iowa. She lived in New Mexico, Texas, then Sheridan for the past 32 years. She was a teacher at Highland Park Elementary School for many years. She enjoyed travel, reading and time spent with family. She was a member of the Sheridan Historical Society, American Association of University Women, and the Methodist Church. She was preceded in death by a brother, Bob Burr. Survivors include her husband; a daughter, Ann Doyle of Erie, Colo.; a son, Lance Blyth of Colorado Springs, Colo.; and two grandchildren.
Mass of Christian burial for David “Big Dave” A. Eldridge Sr. will be held at 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, December 15, 2009 at St. Matthew’s Catholic Church with Father Cliff Jacobson officiating. Visitation will be held from 4:00-7:00 p.m., Monday, December 14, 2009 at St. Matthew’s Catholic Church with a rosary at 7:00 p.m. David Allen Eldridge Sr. our beloved husband, father, and grandfather passed away December 10, 2009 at his home in Gillette. David was born May 2, 1950 in Gillette, Wyoming to Wayne Eldridge and Marjorie (Hubbard) Eldridge. David was a lifelong resident of Gillette. He graduated from Campbell County High School in 1969. He joined the army on August 16, 1969, serving in Vietnam as a MP receiving the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal, the Vietnam Campaign Medal, the Army Commendation Medal, and the Bronze Star Medal being honorably discharged on March 24, 1971. David married the love of his life, Deborah K. Davila, November 26, 1971. They just recently celebrated their 38th wedding anniversary. They were blessed with three children, Desiree Eldridge, David Eldridge Jr., and Deidre (Jeremy) McInerney. David was part owner of Eldridge Excavating, Inc. until May of 2003, when David, Deb and their children formed their own business D.A. Eldridge, Inc. His interests included golfing, fishing, boating, and camping (most recently in his front yard) with his grandchildren. He enjoyed traveling with his wife, Deb, the highlight was his dream cruise to Alaska. He was an avid follower of his children and grandchildren’s sporting activities and traveled extensively throughout the state and country to watch them. He felt it was very important to support the youth of Wyoming sponsoring and coaching teams. He was a member of the American Legion Post 42, the Knights of Columbus, Elks Foundation, and Ducks Unlimited. David is survived by his wife, Deborah; children Desiree, David, and Deidre; eight grandchildren: Dylan, Demitria, Deja, Joshua, Miya, Mason, Dalton, and Paul; his mother, Marjorie McKinzie; his brother, Ed Eldridge; sister, Deanne (Doug Dinsmoore) of Gillette, Wyoming; sister, Juanita (Bart) Cook of California and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, Wayne Eldridge, his brother, Donald Eldridge, his father-in-law, John Davila, and his brother-in-law, Manuel Michael Davila. David was loved and respected by all who knew him. David will be greatly missed. Memorials and condolences may be sent in Big Dave’s name in care of Gillette Memorial Chapel, 210 W. 5th Street, Gillette, Wyoming 82716 or via the internet at www.gillettememorialchapel.com.
Josephine Jane Dickens passed early morning Friday, Dec. 11, 2009 in Sun City, CA. She was born Aug. 10, 1926 in Kansas City, MO fifteen minutes after her twin sister, JoAnn. Her parents were William "Del" Hardin and Dorothy M. Smith of Junction City, KS. She married Doyne "Dick" Dickens in Little Rock, AR. He died in 1990. They had one daughter, Sandra Jean. She is survived by her daughter, recently of Sun City, CA; three grandchildren: Shelley Uhrmann of Washington State, Sheila (Adrian) Chavira and Phred (Charlene) Uhrmann; three great grandchildren: Adrian, Jr, Garrick and Nicole Chavira; plus three great-great grandchildren, all of CA. Josephine attended school in Junction City, KS before moving to Little Rock at the beginning of WWII, then lived in Sheridan during the early 50's and was a beauty operator. In 1955 she moved to southern California where she went to work as a seamstress for several bathing suit manufacturers. She returned to Sheridan in 1992 and stayed until November of this year. She was an avid collector of dolls. She is also survived by her twin, JoAnn McKinney of Sheridan, brother Norman Douglas of Sun City, AZ, Darlene (David) Price of Gilbert, AZ and Connie Halsey of Phoenix, AZ, as well as her niece Faith Keahey of Sheridan.
Lorene Rosamond Birkholz, 88, of Wellington, KS, died Tuesday, December 8, 2009. Survivors include her daughter, Judy Reed and her husband Max of Great Bend, Kansas; son, Dick Birkholz and his wife Sandy of Sheridan, Wyoming; four grandchildren, Alicia Reed, Alexis Reed, Paul Birkholz and Denise Lecholat; three great-grandchildren, Alexina Birkholz, Susan Birkholz, Avery Lecholat and a sister, Irma Krone of Wichita, Kansas. Funeral services for Lorene were held Saturday, December 12, 2009 in Argonia, KS. A memorial has been established in her name and loving memory with the Argonia Friends Church, 202 North Pine Street, Argonia, KS 67004. For further information or to leave condolences, please visit ww.dayfuneralhome.info.
Arrangements are by Day Funeral Home & Crematory, Wellington, Kansas.
Beatrice “Tress” Mclean, 95, of Sheridan died Tuesday, Dec. 8, 2009, in Sheridan Memorial Hospital. Funeral service is 2 p.m. Wednesday at First Christian Church with the Rev. Douglas Goodwin officiating. Burial will be in Sheridan Municipal Cemetery. Arrangements are with Champion Ferries Funeral Home. Born March 26, 1914, in York, Neb., to Ralph and Goldie (Elarth) Trussell, she moved with her family to Sheridan, where it opened a bakery. She graduated from Sheridan High School in 1933 and received her teaching certificate at the University of Montana. She taught school in Big Horn County, Mont., for several years. She later moved to California, where she married cattle rancher Robert Moller. They moved their registered Hereford cattle to a ranch near Big Horn. She enjoyed being a ranch homemaker and cook before her husband’s death in 1983. She then moved to her North Heights home in Sheridan. She was later reunited with an old friend, Kenneth Mclean. The couple were married in Coeur D’Alene, Idaho, in 1985. Mr. Mclean died in 2000. Mrs. Mclean was a member of First Christian Church in Sheridan. She enjoyed reading, lunching with friends and family, and her cat, Queenie. In addition to her husbands, Mrs. Mclean was preceded in death by a sister, Mildred Lomax. Survivors include one brother, Bud Trussell of Boise, Idaho; one stepson; two stepdaughters; a nephew and a niece; and a great-nephew and great-niece. Memorials may benefit First Christian Church, 102 S. Connor St., Sheridan, WY 82801.
Carolyn Louise Blyth, 74, of Sheridan died Saturday, Dec. 12, 2009, at Westview Health Care Center of complications from Parkinson’s disease. A memorial service is planned in the spring. Arrangements are with Kane Funeral Home.
Marthafern “Marty” Sexton Wright Bacon, 67, died December 11, 2009, at her home in Farmington, NM of complications of ovarian cancer. Cremation has taken place and services will be held in Sheridan, WY in July, 2010. Marthafern was born March 24, 1942 in Phillipi, West Virginia to Virginia Linger Wright and Dr. Eugene O. Wright. She moved to Sheridan with her parents when she was three years old. She attended Sheridan schools, graduating from Sheridan High School in 1960. She attended Sheridan College, Goucher College in Baltimore, MD and graduated from the University of Wyoming. She taught school for many years in Anchorage, AK and Deaver, WY. She married Aldrich Kuchera Sept. 1, 1967 and was blessed with two daughters, Virginia Anne and Mandana Louise. They were divorced in 1976. She married the love of her life, Richard Dean Bacon, on May 18, 1983 in Deaver, WY. She enjoyed doing genealogy, knitting, crocheting and sewing. She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Fern Morgan Linger and Freeman Sexton Linger, parents and her brother, Major Eugene O. Wright II. She is survived by her husband, Richard, of Farmington, NM: her daughters, Virginia (John) "Ginny" Anne Corbett, Sewickley, PA and Mandana (Mandy) Louise Kuchera, Farmington, NM; and three grandchildren, Chelsie Morgan Corbett, Connyre Anne Corbett and John Aldrich Corbett, Sewickley, PA. Memorials may be made to: The Wyoming Room, c/o Karen Woinoski, Sheridan County Fulmer Public Library, 335 West Alger, Sheridan, WY 82801. Marthafern is in the care of Desert View Funeral Home, North US Highway 491 of Shiprock, New Mexico (505) 368-4607.
Gary Young Dean, 57, died Nov. 27, 2009, in Centennial, Colo. Cremation has taken place. Arrangements were with Ellis Funeral Home in Denver. Memorial service is 10 a.m., Dec. 19, at Story school followed by a gathering at the Story Woman's Club. Born May 25, 1952, in Boulder Colo., he graduated from Fairview High School in Boulder in 1971, where he was known in the Centennial League for his athletic abilities on the track field. He married Cindy Hammack of Boulder. The couple had one daughter, Portia Marie Dean. Mr. Dean retired from a career in restaurant management in 1985 due to a battle with brain cancer. He lived the remainder of his life at the family cabin in Story where he enjoyed simple pleasures. He was an active member of the Episcopal church and a Story library volunteer. He was known for a hearty greeting, warm smile and generous heart. It was said he will be fondly remembered by nieces and nephews for his white support socks, the hat full of hat pins, and his “man purse.” Memorials may benefit the American Brain Tumor Association and visitors to the Web site may sign the guest book at www.abta.org (click on Garden of Hope).
The photo was omitted for the following obituary which ran in Friday’s Sheridan Press.
Donald Mehling, 69, of Sheridan, died Tuesday, Dec. 8, 2009, in Sheridan Memorial Hospital. Private family services are pending. Arrangements are with Kane Funeral Home. Born Sept. 11, 1940, in Park City, Mont., to Conrad and Eugenia Mehling, he worked as an upholsterer for most of his adult life. He enjoyed fishing, camping, sightseeing, traveling, and coaching baseball. He was preceded in death by numerous brothers and sisters. Survivors include four sons; James Mehling, Ron Mehling, Ken Mehling and Rick Mehling; and ten grandchildren.
Karen Green, 60, of Sheridan, died Tuesday, Dec. 8, 2009, in Westview Health Care Center. Committal of cremains is 11 a.m. Monday in the Elks section at Sheridan Municipal Cemetery with the Rev. Phil Wold officiating. A reception will follow the service at the Elks Lodge 520. Arrangements are with Champion Ferries Funeral Home. Born March 25, 1949, in Sheridan to Maren and Ora Mae (Troutt) Bell, she grew up in the Sheridan area. She graduated from Big Horn High School and Sheridan College. She married Loren “Snook” Green on Sept. 29, 1982, in Sheridan. Mrs. Green was employed in the operation division of First Interstate Bank for 30 years. She was a well-known local artist, avid hunter and fisherwoman. She was preceded in death by her father, her grandparents, five uncles, an aunt and two cousins. Survivors include her husband of Sheridan; brother Dave Heuff of Boulder Creek, Calif.; sister Janis Little of Sheridan; and several nieces and nephews.
Donald Mehling, 69, of Sheridan, died Tuesday, Dec. 8, 2009, in Sheridan Memorial Hospital. Private family services are pending. Arrangements are with Kane Funeral Home. Born Sept. 11, 1940, in Park City, Mont., to Conrad and Eugenia Mehling, he worked as an upholsterer for most of his adult life. He enjoyed fishing, camping, sightseeing, traveling, and coaching baseball. He was preceded in death by numerous brothers and sisters. Survivors include four sons; James Mehling, Ron Mehling, Ken Mehling and Rick Mehling; and ten grandchildren.
Former Sheridan resident David C. Morgan, 80, of Worland, died Monday, Dec. 7, 2009, in Worland. Visitation is 10 a.m. to noon Monday at Champion Ferries Funeral Home. Graveside service are 2 p.m. Monday in the Dayton Cemetery with the Rev. Robert Logan officiating. Mr. Morgan was born Dec. 8, 1928, on the family homestead on Ash Creek. He grew up and attended schools on Ash Creek and in Monarch. He left home at age 14 to work on various ranches in the Sheridan area. After a number of years he was employed at the Sheridan Commercial Mill on Broadway where was eventually the mill manager. He ranched on Ash Creek, and also leased the Kester place. He later moved to Gillette, then Buffalo, then Worland. Mr. Morgan enjoyed hunting, fishing, spending time in the mountains and with his animals. He especially enjoyed spending time with his wife. He was preceded in death by five brothers. Survivors include wife Ella of Worland; several children; 12 grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.
Paul D. Paustian, 90, of Sheridan, died Tuesday, Dec. 8, 2009, in Westview Health Care Center. Visitation is 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday at Champion Ferries Funeral Home. Graveside services are 11 a.m. Tuesday in the Elks section of the Sheridan Municipal Cemetery with George Tellez officiating. Arrangements are with Champion Ferries Funeral Home. Born February 18, 1919, to Henry and Stella (Maxwell) Paustian in Balantine, Mont., the family moved to Ranchester in 1925 and operated the HN Ranch on Wolf Creek. He attended Ranchester schools for 12 years and graduated in 1937. He attended the University of Wyoming and was a 1941 graduate with a degree in agronomy. At UW he was a member of the stock judging team in 1940 and 1941, enrolled in the Army Reserve Officer Training Corps, was a member of Alfa Zeta Honorary Fraternity, and was president of the University of Wyoming Association of Independent Students. He married Helen Kumor in 1942, then ran his father’s ranch, the Box J, until it sold in 1948. He taught veterans under an agriculture training program for six years, and later ran a number of businesses in Ranchester prior to working for the Wyoming Employment Security Commission, where he retired as an Unemployment Area Manager after 20 years. After retirement in 1984, he volunteered as a veteran escort at the Sheridan VA Medical Center through 2008, acquiring more than 5,000 volunteer hours. He was a life member of the Elks Lodge 520 since 1945 where he volunteered for numerous activities and was named 1990 Elk of the Year. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, dancing, gardening, time spent with family and helping others. Mr. Paustian was preceded in death by his wife; two brothers, Chris and Clarence Paustian; and four sisters, Gladys Janich, Mamie Zoutte, Dorothy Hayes, and Thelma Clark. His long time companion is Ada Smith of Sheridan. Survivors include four sons, Larry Paustian of Phoenix, Dan Paustian of Sheridan, Jim Paustian of Albuquerque and Paul Paustian of Las Cruces, N.M.; nine grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; a sister, Lois Washut of Sheridan; and numerous nieces and nephews. Memorials may benefit Elks Lodge 520 Building Fund, PO Box 2031, Sheridan, WY 82801.
Russell Pierce, 65, of Dayton, died Wednesday, Dec. 9, 2009, in Sheridan Memorial Hospital. Cremation has taken place. Services are planned at a later date. Born April 13, 1944, in Evanston to Joseph and Stella (Cook) Pierce, he spent most of his life as a lumberjack. He was said to be a mountain man who enjoyed the woods, fishing, the outdoors, and spent many hours puttering around the house. His life partner was Barbara Fritzel. Survivors include his daughters Kristy Pierce, Sandra Briggs, Sherrie Pierce and Angie Morrow; four brothers; and eight grandchildren.
Former Sheridan County resident David C. Morgan, 80, of Worland, died Monday, Dec. 7, 2009, in Worland. Arrangements are pending with Champion Ferries Funeral Home.
Beatrice Mclean, 95, of Ranchester, died Tuesday, Dec. 8, 2009, in Sheridan Memorial Hospital. Arrangements are pending with Champion Ferries Funeral Home.
Paul Paustian, 90, of Sheridan, died Tuesday, Dec. 8, 2009, in Sheridan Memorial Hospital. Arrangements are pending with Champion Ferries Funeral Home.
Karen Green, 60, of Sheridan, died Tuesday, Dec. 8, 2009, in Westview Health Care Center. Arrangements are pending with Champion Ferries Funeral Home.
Donald Mehling, 69, of Sheridan, died Tuesday, Dec. 8, 2009, in Sheridan Memorial Hospital. Private family services are planned. Arrangements are with Kane Funeral Home.
Russell Pierce, 65, of Dayton, died Wednesday, Dec. 9, 2009, in Sheridan Memorial Hospital. Services are planned at a later date. Arrangements are with Kane Funeral Home.
Robert P. Morris, 80, of Sheridan, passed away on Monday, December 7, 2009 at Sheridan Memorial Hospital. Memorial services will be held at 11:00 a.m., December 11, at Kane Funeral Home with Pastor Sherman Weberg officiating. Reception to follow immediately at the Big Horn Mountain Eagles. Viewing to be held Thursday, December 10, from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. at Kane Funeral Home. Cremation will take place with graveside services planned for next year. Robert was born on November 30, 1929, to Robert and Dora (Sievers) Morris in Worland, Wyoming. His early childhood was spent in the Worland, Basin, Greybull and Shell area where his parents farmed. He had two daughters from a previous marriage, Candace and Suesan. He later married Billie Rhoads in 1954. They were blessed with 6 children; Dave, Mike, Tony, Debby, Kathy and Teresa. Robert worked construction as a truck driver and heavy equipment operator. He worked 5 years at the landfill in Los Angeles, CA, then the family moved to Buffalo in 1970. Besides construction work, Robert sold, moved and set-up mobile homes. He started working for Decker Coal so the family moved to Sheridan in 1991. He retired from Decker Coal after working there for 7 years, but continued driving truck part-time for various construction companies in the Sheridan area. Robert was preceded in death by his parents; brothers Leslie Morris, Ken Morris and Don Morris; sisters Thelma Winter, Nellie Johnson and Doralena Cathcart; and daughter Debby McCaffrey. Survivors include his wife, daughters Candace Nordman of Antioch, TN; Susan (Dave) Quinn of Franklin, TN; Kathy (Richard) Dellit of Ranchester, WY and Teresa (Kenny) Montgomery of Glenrock, WY; and sons David (Pam) Morris and Mike (Susan) Morris of Farmington, NM; and Tony (Gail) Morris of Buffalo, WY; brothers Vern Morris of Sheridan, WY, Leland Morris of Basin, WY and Delmar Morris of Cowley, WY; 17 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Dog and Cat Shelter, 84 East Ridge Road, Sheridan, WY 82801.
The following information was omitted in the obituary for David R. Roberts published in the Dec. 5 edition of The Sheridan Press: Mr. Roberts was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, Fred and Daniel Roberts. This information was not provided by the funeral home and is being published at the request of the family.
Dola A. Yockers, 87, of Sheridan, died Monday, Dec. 7, 2009, in Westview Health Care Center. Services are planned in Salina, Kan. Arrangements are with Champion Ferries Funeral Home. Born June 5, 1922, in Sylvan Grove, Kan., she spent most of her life in Salina where she was an active member of the Unity Church family. She enjoyed dancing and singing and participated in the senior choirs in Salina and with the SheridanAires in Sheridan. She enjoyed crafts, daily walks and spending time doing yard work. She was cared for by her daughter and son-in-law of Sheridan for ten years. She resided in Westview Health Care Center for the past year. Survivors include daughter Cindy Gowler of Sheridan; two sons, Stephen and Daniel Bishop; and several grandchildren.
Luther Glynn Lobstein, 65, of Gillette, husband of former Sheridan resident Francie (Gates) Lobstein, died Saturday, Dec. 5, 2009, at Wyoming Medical Center in Casper. Memorial service is 3 p.m. Thursday in the Wyoming Room at Campbell County Library in Gillette.
Robert Morris, 80, of Sheridan, died Monday, Dec. 7, 2009, at Sheridan Memorial Hospital. Viewing is 6-8 p.m. Thursday at Kane Funeral Home. Memorial services are 11 a.m. Friday at Kane Funeral Home with Pastor Sherman Weberg officiating A reception will follow at the Big Horn Mountain Eagles. Cremation and graveside services are planned at a later date. Mr. Morris was born Nov. 30, 1929, to Robert and Dora Morris in Worland. He was preceded in death by brothers Leslie Morris, Ken Morris and Don Morris; sisters Thelma Winter, Nellie Johnson, Doralena Cathcart; and daughter Debby McCaffrey. Survivors include his wife, Billie; daughters Candace Nordman of Antioch, Tenn., and Susan Quinn of Franklin, Tenn., Kathy Dellit of Ranchester, and Teresa Montgomery of Glenrock; sons David Morris and Michael Morris of Farmington, N.M., and Tony Morris of Buffalo; brothers Vern Morris of Sheridan, Leland Morris of Basin, and Delmar Morris of Cowley; 17 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. In lieu of flowers, memorials may benefit the Dog and Cat Shelter, 84 East Ridge Road, Sheridan, WY 82801.
Private family services and interment for Daryle Husman, 77 year old Buffalo resident who passed away early Monday morning, quietly at his home surrounded by his family will be held this coming summer. It was Daryle_s explicit wish that no formal funeral be held. Donations in his memory may be made to Heifer International in care of the Adams Funeral Home at 351 N. Adams in Buffalo, Wyoming 82834. Heifer International is an organization that provides impoverished families and communities all over the world with animals and education to improve their lives and achieve self sufficiency. Daryle Olen Husman was born on November 27, 1932 in Hardin, Montana to Albert and Hazel Turner Husman. He spent the first years of his life with his parents at the Boulder Dam construction site. When he was 8 years old he moved with his family to the Panama Canal Zone during the construction of the canal. Daryle returned with his family to Sheridan where he graduated from Sheridan High School in 1951. After high school he enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corp and served during the Korean Conflict. After his military service he returned to Wyoming and attended both the University of Wyoming and the University of Colorado in Boulder. He was married on May 27, 1961 in Sheridan to Earleen (Lee) Ingalls and they made their home in Sheridan where Daryle worked for Husman Brothers. In 1969, he took a job with Cedar Rapids Inc. and they moved to Cedar Rapids, Iowa. He spent his entire working life in engineering and construction. Daryle was promoted to International Sales Rep and traveled all over the world, including Argentina, Iran, Saudi Arabia, Libya and Korea, providing developing areas the equipment they needed to develop. Daryle retired in 1999 and in 2005 he and his wife moved to Buffalo, where they lived until the time of his death. Daryle is survived by his wife Earleen (Lee) Husman of Buffalo; two daughters, Dr. Jenefer Husman and Dr. Sarah Brem both of Fountain Hills, Arizona; one son Christopher Olen Husman of Buffalo; one brother John Husman and his wife Cheryl of Boise, Idaho and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents.
Kathleen Mary Marshall, 69, of Sheridan, died Friday, Dec. 4, 2009, in Sheridan Memorial Hospital. Memorial services were 10:30 a.m. today at First Presbyterian Church with the Rev. Doug Melius officiating. Arrangements are with Champion Ferries Funeral Home. Mrs. Marshall was born Dec. 23, 1939, in Baltimore, Md., to Henry and Johanna Brodt. Her husband, Paul Warner Marshall, also of Baltimore, preceded her in death. Survivors include children Paul Warner Marshall Jr. of Shepherdstown, W. Va., Michael Joseph Marshall and Lisa Anne Milner of Sheridan, and Vicki Lynn McVey of Forest Hill, Md.; sisters Anne Murphy of Baltimore and Melinda Smith of Clearwater, Fla; and eight grandchildren. Memorials may benefit Compassion International, 12290 Voyager Parkway, Colorado Springs, CO 80921-3668.
Robert Morris, 80, of Sheridan, died Monday, Dec. 7, 2009, at Sheridan Memorial Hospital. Visitation will be 6-8 p.m. Thursday at Kane Funeral Home. Funeral services are 10 a.m. Friday at Kane Funeral Home with Sherman Weberg officiating.
Marjorie Shaffer, 84, of Sheridan passed away at Sheridan Memorial Hospital on December 2, 2009. Marjorie was born on February 26, 1925 to Gladys M. and Alba Craft in Sheridan, Wyoming. She graduated from Sheridan High School and also from Heiman’s Business School. On April 10, 1943 she married Frank Shaffer in Champaign, Illinois, where he was stationed at the U.S. Navy Signal School. Marjorie worked in several offices, including B.H.J., Inc and served on the Boys State Staff in Douglas for 14 years. She was also a member of the American Legion Auxiliary. She was preceded in death by her parents and two brothers, Alba Doyne and Francis “Pete” Dale. Survivors include her children, Sheryll (Chuck) Seagrave of Big Horn, Wyoming, Charlene Lee of Newport News, Virginia and Frank Jr. (Sharon) Shaffer of Sheridan, Wyoming; grandchildren, Susanne, Courtenay, Ryan, Hayden, Gretchen, Giesella and Gavin; greatgrandchildren, Lia, Janna and Natalie. Marjorie enjoyed spending time with her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and doing her word puzzles and reading. She was known for her outgoing sense of humor and devotion to her family and her honesty. A private family service will be held at a later date. Kane Funeral Home is entrusted with the arrangements. Memorials may benefit the Sheridan Senior Center or the American Legion Boys State program.
Kathleen Marshall, 69, of Sheridan, died Friday, Dec. 4, 2009, in Sheridan Memorial Hospital. Arrangements are pending with Champion Ferries Funeral Home.
Dola Yocker, 87, of Sheridan, died Monday, Dec. 7, 2009, in Westview Health Care Center. Arrangements are pending with Champion Ferries Funeral Home.
Hayden Spencer Trujillo, infant son of Codie and Kayla (Tenny) Trujillo of Sheridan, died at birth Tuesday, Dec. 1, 2009, in Sheridan Memorial Hospital. A private family memorial service is planned with Father Ronald Stolcis officiating. Arrangements are with Champion Ferries Funeral Home.
Janet Searan, age 16, of Billings, passed away Dec. 1, 2009, at St. Vincent Healthcare, as the result of a car accident. Janet was an honor student in her junior year at Senior High School. Janet loved animals and was planning to go to college to become a veterinarian. She liked playing basketball and was looking forward to playing softball in the spring. Janet touched everyone’s life with her smile and her caring personality. Janet loved her job at the Heights McDonalds, and took pride in her work. Janet was a neat freak. She loved the ’80s style with brightly colored shoes and Punky Brewster wardrobe. Janet was full of life and laughter, and was excited about her future. She was always dependable and put others before herself. She lived her life to the fullest and was a leader in her own quiet way. Everyone she met was impacted by her bubbly personality. Janet volunteered at Head Start and dressed up as Clifford during the Week of the Young Child. Janet loved working with children and hoped to someday adopt and help other kids who are in the foster care system. Janet was preceded in death by her father, Frankie Searan. Survivors include her sister, Lacey Lane and nephew Brennon Hoerster; her parents, JD and Vicki Ingraham; brothers Tyler and Josh; sisters Jamie, Kristy, Barb, Heather and Kayla. Janet is very loved and will be greatly missed. A memorial to celebrate Janet’s life will be Monday, Dec. 7, 2009, at 10 a.m., at LifeWay Church at 3100 Rimrock Road. The burial will follow at Terrace Gardens Cemetery. A memorial fund has been set up at Western Security Bank to assist with funeral arrangements. Funds that are left will go to a local veterinary clinic or in a scholarship for someone attending veterinary school.
David R. Roberts, 67, of Sheridan died Wednesday, Dec. 2, 2009, at St. Vincent's Hospital in Billings. Funeral service will be 1 p.m. Saturday at Bethesda Worship Center with the Rev. Scott Lee officiating. Burial will be in Mount Hope Cemetery in Big Horn. Arrangements are with Champion Ferries Funeral Home. Born Aug. 17, 1942, in Sheridan to Elmer and Lavoris (Wyrick) Roberts, he grew up and attended schools in California. He returned to the Sheridan area in 1961. He married Cheryl Pease on Aug. 12, 1962, in Lodge Grass, Mont. They moved in 1968 to Oregon, where he worked as a meat cutter. The couple returned in 1975 to Sheridan, where he worked for Jersey Creamery until operating the Broadway Exchange store. He sold the store in the mid-1990s and then worked at Shipton’s Big R. Mr. Roberts spent summers in Alaska guiding fishermen with one of his sons. In retirement, he ran a business sharpening knives. A deacon at Bethesda Worship Center and life member of the National Rifle Association, he enjoyed hunting, fishing and the mountains. Survivors include his wife; five sons, David of Dayton, Rodney of Victor, Idaho, Monte of Soldotna, Alaska, Keith of Sheridan, and Rick of Monterey, Calif.; a daughter, Debra Gardner of Sutler Creek, Calif.; a brother, Michael Roberts of Sheridan; four sisters, Barbara Ellis and Doris Ledford of Sheridan, Judy Roberts of Big Horn, and Iva Graham of Loveland, Colo.; nine grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. Memorials may benefit Joseph's Storehouse food bank or Adopt-A-Block c/o Bethesda Worship Center, 1100 Big Horn Ave., Sheridan, WY 82801.
Gene Carlton Kilpatrick, age 61, died November 30, 2009. Gene was born on September 25, 1948, to Dueward Watson and Annie Laurie (King) Kilpatrick in Sinton, Texas. As a young boy, Gene moved with his family to Sinclair, Wyoming where he attended schools in Rawlins. Gene was an Eagle Scout and spent summers working at a Boy Scout Camp in the Poudre Valley, Colorado. After graduating from Rawlins High School, Gene joined the Wyoming National Guard where he earned the rank of Captain in the Artillery Unit. After 13 years he was honorably discharged. In 1969 he married Patsy (Tully) Hinman, and they had two daughters, Colleen and Maureen. They later divorced. In 1973 Gene started work for Glenrock Coal as a mechanic’s apprentice. In 1981 he transferred to Spring Creek Coal as Plant Supervisor and eventually Production Manager. Gene married Cindi (Cooper) Kilpatrick on May 18, 1985 in Sheridan. In 1993 Gene traveled to Russia and Siberia with the Mining People to People Ambassadors. He stayed across from the Red Square in Moscow during the coup and the burning of the white house. In 1995 Gene left Spring Creek Coal. After ten months and deciding all of his friends couldn’t fish every day, he started The Home Place where he remained until ill health forced him to close the business. Gene was also a partner with The Three Left Handers (TLH) in developing Osprey Subdivision. He thoroughly enjoyed the infrastructure being built as he felt at home from his mining days with all the digging and dirt moving activities. Gene loved to go fishing, camping, ride his four wheeler, hunt whitetail, golf with a cigar and good friends, or simply do anything outdoors. He also was an accomplished cook and loved entertaining family and friends. He especially loved his grandkids, and always thought the best sound was the grandkids running and laughing throughout the house. He was rarely seen without his Jack Russell Terrier, Ruby, who was his constant work companion. Those who knew Gene well knew of his ability to listen, his witty sense of humor and his ability to tell a good joke. He was perpetually late and he had a knack for fixing anything. Gene is survived by his wife Cindi, daughters and sons-in-law Colleen and Michael Butler, and Maureen and Jason Neavill, grandchildren, Molly and Nora Butler, Monica and Cooper Neavill all of Sheridan, and Kasey Bresso of California. Special nephew and niece, Kevin (Penny) Kilpatrick of Georgia, and Laura (Bill) Mahoney of Indiana. Mother and father-in-law, Chan and Joyce Cooper of Willow Creek, MT., sisters-in-law Laura (Steve) Barry of Helena, MT., Cathy (Jack) Wilson of Auburn, WA., Marla (Ron) Richardson of Three Forks, MT., Chanelle Cooper of Seattle and brother-in-law Britt (Lisa) Cooper of Harrison, MT. He also had numerous nieces and nephews-in-law. He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Bob Kilpatrick. A Celebration of life will be held at Kane Funeral Home on Monday, December 7, 2009, at 10:00 A.M., with burial following at Mount Hope Cemetery in Big Horn. A reception will be held afterwards for family and friends at the family home. Memorials may be donated to the Dog and Cat Shelter, 84 Eastridge Road, Sheridan, Wyoming, 82801. Kane Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements.
Marjorie Shaffer, 84, of Sheridan passed away at Sheridan Memorial Hospital on December 2, 2009. Marjorie was born on February 26, 1925 to Gladys M. and Alba Craft in Sheridan, Wyoming. She graduated from Sheridan High School and also from Heiman’s Business School. On April 10, 1943 she married Frank Shaffer in Champaign, Illinois, where he was stationed at the U.S. Navy Signal School. Marjorie worked in several offices, including B.H.J., Inc and served on the Boys State Staff in Douglas for 14 years. She was also a member of the American Legion Auxiliary. She was preceded in death by her parents and two brothers, Alba Doyne and Francis “Pete” Dale. Survivors include her children, Sheryll (Chuck) Seagrave of Big Horn, Wyoming, Charlene Lee of Newport News, Virginia and Frank Jr. (Sharon) Shaffer of Sheridan, Wyoming; grandchildren, Susanne, Courtenay, Ryan, Hayden, Gretchen, Giesella and Gavin; great- grandchildren, Lia, Janna and Natalie. Marjorie enjoyed spending time with her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and doing her word puzzles and reading. She was known for her outgoing sense of humor and devotion to her family and her honesty. A private family service will be held at a later date. Kane Funeral Home is entrusted with the arrangements.
Marjorie Shaffer, 85, of Sheridan died Wednesday, Dec. 2, 2009, in Sheridan Memorial Hospital. Arrangements are pending with Kane Funeral Home.
Gene Carlton Kilpatrick, 61, of Sheridan died Monday, Nov. 30, 2009, at Sheridan Memorial Hospital. A celebration of life will be 10 a.m. Monday at Kane Funeral Home with burial to follow at Mount Hope Cemetery in Big Horn. A reception for family and friends will follow at the family home. Born Sept. 25, 1948, in Sinton, Texas, to Dueward Watson and Annie Laurie (King) Kilpatrick, he moved as a young boy with his family to Sinclair and attended schools in Rawlins. He was an Eagle Scout and spent summers working at a Boy Scout Camp in Colorado’s Poudre Valley. After graduating from Rawlins High School, he joined the Wyoming National Guard, where he earned the rank of captain in the artillery unit. He was honorable discharged after 13 years. In 1969 he married Patsy (Tully) Hinman. They had two daughters before divorcing. In 1973 he went to work with Glenrock Coal as a mechanic’s apprentice. In 1981 he transferred to Spring Creek Coal as plant supervisor and later was production manager. He married Cindi Cooper on May 18, 1985, in Sheridan. In 1993 he traveled to Russia and Siberia with the Mining People to People Ambassadors program. In 1995, he left employment with Spring Creek Coal and 10 months later opened The Home Place, where he remained until ill health forced him to close the business. He was also a partner with The Three Left Handers in developing Osprey Subdivision. He enjoyed fishing, camping, riding his four-wheeler, hunting whitetail deer, golf with a cigar and good friends, outdoors activities, and “fixing things.” Known as an accomplished cook, he also enjoyed entertaining family and friends and spending time with his grandchildren. He was rarely seen without his Jack Russell terrier, Ruby. He was preceded in death by a brother, Bob Kilpatrick. Survivors include his wife; two daughters, Colleen Butler and Maureen Neavill of Sheridan; five grandchildren; several nephews and a niece; and extended family. Memorials may benefit the Dog and Cat Shelter, 84 East Ridge Road, Sheridan, WY 82801.
Former Sheridan resident Marylou Naomi Weddle Stroud, 52, died Tuesday, Dec. 1, 2009, in Brenham, Texas. Memorial service is 2 p.m. Dec. 12 at Cornerstone Church in Sheridan with Pastor Tony Forman officiating. Fellowship will follow the service. Arrangements are with Kane Funeral Home. Born Nov. 8, 1957, in Harvey, Ill., to Norman H. and Annamae (Monik) Weddle, she lived with her family in Sheridan for a time and graduated from Sheridan High School. She married Dail Stroud on Nov. 8, 2007, in Brenham. Mrs. Stroud enjoyed socializing with friends and participating in card games. It was said her greatest joy was being a devoted mother, aunt and grandmother. She was preceded in death by her mother. Survivors include her father; her husband; three children, Norman, Danny and Cari; two brothers, James and Terry; a sister, Suzanne; three grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Patricia Lee Koch, 80, passed away Monday, November 28, 2009 in Highlands Ranch, Colorado. Patricia was born on September 21, 1929 to Earl and Valgene (Talbot) Hughes in Sheridan, Wyoming. She grew up and graduated High School in Buffalo, Wyoming. She moved to Sheridan after graduation and where she met Orval Koch and married him on May 17, 1953. She worked for the telephone company as an operator for ten years. Following the birth of her second daughter she stayed at home to raise her family. When their five daughters were older she became a CNA and worked for Eventide Nursing Home for six years, then moved on to the V.A. Hospital in Sheridan where she worked for seventeen years until she retired in 1995. She enjoyed cooking, canning and going to the mountains. However, her greatest passion was spending time with family and friends. Unfortunately, her last years were spent battling kidney disease but she always remained caring, loving and courageous without complaint. Patricia was preceded in death by her husband Orval Koch, sister Jean Whitted of Illinois, brother Bill Hughes of Cheyenne, Wyoming and granddaughter Krista Ekis. Survivors include her three sisters June Hale of Casper, Wyoming, Mary Lou Bernard of Douglas, Wyoming and Phyllis Hepp of Buffalo, Wyoming; children Cheryl Romanjenko of Sheridan, Debbie Koch of Aurora, Colorado, Susan Koch of Highlands Ranch, Colorado, Linda Koch of Park City, Utah and Amy (Dwayne) Koch-Kobielusz of Highlands Ranch, Colorado; grandchildren Lawrence Ekis II, Jennifer Koch, Kendra Lenz, Joshua Kobielusz, and Dylan Kobielusz; great- grandchildren Tailea Daniels, Logun Ekis, and Kyah Main as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Memorial Service will be held 2:00 p.m., Friday, December 4, 2009 at Kane Funeral Home with Doug Goodwin officiating. Inurnment to follow at the Sheridan Municipal Cemetery. Memorials can be made to the National Kidney Foundation, 30 E. 33rd Street, New York City, New York, 80016. Kane Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements.
Edward Conley Smith, 83, who passed away November 20th, 2009, at the V.A. Hospital, was born on April 30, 1926 to Mildred (Pat) Conley and Edward B. Smith in Sheridan. Ed was enlisted in the U.S. Navy from 1943 to 1947, and from 1950 to 1954, serving in World War II and the Korean War. After serving his country, Ed returned to Sheridan. He worked for Consolidated Freightways, and retired after working for CF for 40 years. While driving for CF, Ed received awards for four million driving miles with no accidents. Ed married Mary Ann Hager in 1953 in Sheridan. They had three sons, John, Bill, and Bob. The family moved to Lakewood, CA where Ed lived until 1980. He moved to Tennessee, and lived there until his retirement in 1991, at which time he returned to Sheridan. Ed married Jean (Wootton) Kurpjuweit in February, 1997. Ed loved the mountains. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, boating, and snowmobiling. He also enjoyed gardening, watching sports and M&M’s. Ed was a member of the American Legion Post #7, a lifetime member of the Elks Lodge 520, and the Big Horn Mountain Eagles Aerie 4169. He was preceded in death by his parents, brother, Ernest _Matt_ Smith, and sister Laura. Ed is survived by his wife Jean, sons, John and Bill of Sheridan, Bob of Long Beach, CA, step children Jodye (Deryle) Wilmes of Rock Springs, Andrea (Ron) Garner of Idaho, and Jim (Jenifer) Shassetz of Sheridan, and sisters Arlene (Charles) Larson of Benson, AZ, and Marge (Alan) Ehling of Fallon, NV, 2 grandsons and numerous nieces, nephews, step-grand children and great-grandchildren. A memorial service and a gathering for family and friends will be held on Saturday, December 5, 2009, at 1:00 p.m. at the Big Horn Mountain Eagles with Chaplan Arden Haeffner officiating, with Military Honors to follow. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the American Legion Baseball, c / o Dan Bilyeu, 137 N. Brooks Street, Sheridan, Wyoming, 82801, Elks Youth Rodeo or the Elks Building Fund, 45 West Brundage, Sheridan, Wyoming 82801. Kane Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements.
James B. (Jim) Clark, 90, of Sheridan, passed Saturday, November 28, 2009 at the V.A. Hospital where he had resided since February of 2007. He was preceded in death by his wife, Jeanne M. (Demple) Clark, in June of 2008. Born in Billings, Montana, March 19, 1919, to William and Marie Bradbury Clark, Jim moved to Sheridan where he lived from 1923 until the present, except for a 30 year career in the Air Force. He married Jeanne Demple in August, 1945, at St. Augustine Cathedral in Tucson, Arizona. They had known each other since age five where they attended Holy Name School and later Sheridan High School. Clark enlisted in the Army Air Corps in 1940 and served in Italy from 1943-1945 with a World War II rank of Master Sergeant. His other military service included the Wyoming National Guard (1947- 1949); the U.S. Army Reserves (1951-1957); and the U.S. Air Force from 1957 to 1971. Sergeant Clark served in Korea 1950-1951, Germany 1964-1966, and again in Italy 1967, and towards the end of his career, Vietnam, 1968-1969. He was decorated with two presidential unit citations during World War II along with ten battle stars and he received three battle stars in Vietnam. Most of his career was spent at Lowry Air Force Base in Denver, Colorado, where he was a technical instructor in munitions. He retired from the U.S. Air Force in 1971 with the rank of 2nd Lieutenant. Clark worked as a building inspector for the City of Sheridan and the Town of Ranchester after his retirement from the military. His passions were history, geography, sports, model trains and dogs, among many other things. He was a member of the Elks, the VFW, and the 450th Bomb Unit- “The Cottontails”. Jim is survived by his sister Joan (Fred) Carr of Casper; son Jon (Carol) Clark; daughters Jane Clark (Phillip Huckins) of Sheridan and JoAnne Heron (Dr. Fayette Krause) of Port Townsend, Washington; five grandchildren, Chris Clark and Cassandra Clark of Sheridan, Chris Popham of Palmer, Alaska, Earline Huckins and David Huckins of Spokane; nephew Douglas Carr, MD of Billings, Montana; nieces Deborah (Carr) O_Brien of Casper, Wyoming and Martha (Carr) Oyler of Phoenix, Arizona and seven great-grandchildren, Sierra Huckins, Logan Huckins, Riley Huckins, Harper Huckins-Olson, Tristen Clark, Danielle Ackels and Tabitha Brown. Services will be conducted at Holy Name Catholic Church on Friday, December 4th at 10:00 a.m. A celebration of Jim’s life will be held at the Shrine Hall, 145 W. Loucks following burial in the Elks section of the Sheridan Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please make any memorials in his name to the VFW of Sheridan #1560, 758 Broadway, VA Volunteer Services, 1898 Fort Road or the American Legion Post #7 at 137 N. Brooks. Kane Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements.
LaVerne E. Weberg, 91, of Ranchester died Wednesday, Nov. 25, 2009, in Sheridan Manor. A memorial service is 3 p.m. Sunday at Big Horn Church with Pastor Sherman Weberg officiating. Arrangements are with Champion Ferries Funeral Home. Born Nov. 10, 1918, on a Montana farm between Homestead and Froid, she grew up on the homestead and moved in 1931 to Froid, where she graduated from high school in 1936. She married Clarence A. Weberg in Froid on May 10, 1937. Mrs. Weberg clerked at a grocery store in Froid. In Sheridan, she worked at Schreibeis Bakery, the Post Office Snack Bar, the Holly Sugar Experimental Lab, Central Junior High School, and Linden Elementary School. She was active in the church where she was a pastor’s wife, taught Sunday school, worked with Pioneer Girls and the Women's Circle Groups, sang in the choir, attended the Christian Women's Club, and served on the board. She also volunteered at Sheridan Senior Center. She enjoyed sewing, embroidery, baking, volunteer work, and especially spending time with her family. She was preceded in death by her husband, two brothers, and one sister. Survivors include two sons, Douglas Weberg of Elizabethtown, Tenn., and Sherman Weberg of Ranchester; two daughters, Louise Kishpaugh, of Sparks, Nev., and Sylvia Phillips of Sheridan; 11 grandchildren; and 21 great-grandchildren. Memorials in memory of Mrs. Weberg may be made to the Gideons for bible distribution.
Former Sheridan resident Marylou Naomi Weddle Stroud, 52, died Tuesday, Dec. 1, 2009, in Brenham, Texas. Arrangements are pending with Kane Funeral Home.
John E. Whitworth, 74, of Sheridan died Wednesday, Dec. 2, 2009, at Sheridan Manor. Arrangements are pending with Kane Funeral Home.
James B. “Jim” Clark, 90, of Sheridan died Saturday, Nov. 28, 2009, at Sheridan VA Medical Center, where he had resided since February 2007. Services are 10 a.m. Friday at Holy Name Catholic Church. Burial will be in the Elks section of Sheridan Municipal Cemetery. A celebration of life will follow at Kalif Shrine Hall, 145 W. Loucks St. Arrangements are with Kane Funeral Home. Born March 19, 1919, in Billings to William and Marie Clark, he moved to Sheridan in 1923. He married Jeanne Demple in August 1945 in Tucson, Ariz. The couple had known each other since age 5, attending Holy Name School and Sheridan High School together. He enlisted in the Army Air Corps in 1940 and served in Italy from 1943-1945 with a World War II rank of master Sergeant. Other military service included the Wyoming National Guard (1947-1949), the U.S. Army Reserve (1951-1957), and the U.S. Air Force (1957 to 1971). He also served in Korea from 1950-1951, Germany from 1964-1966, again in Italy in 1967, and Vietnam from 1968-1969. He was decorated with two presidential unit citations during World War II along with 10 battle stars and received three battle stars in Vietnam. Most of his career was spent at Lowry Air Force Base in Denver, where he was a technical instructor in munitions. He retired from the U.S. Air Force in 1971 with the rank of second lieutenant. Mr. Clark worked as a building inspector for the city of Sheridan and the town of Ranchester after retirement from the military. He enjoyed history, geography, sports, model trains and dogs, among many other things. He was a member of the Elks, Veterans of Foreign Wars, and the 450th Bomb Unit — "The Cottontails." He was preceded in death by his wife in June 2008. Survivors include a sister, Joan Carr of Casper; a son, Jon Clark; two daughters, Jane Clark of Sheridan and JoAnne Krause of Port Townsend, Wash.; five grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; several nieces and a nephew. In lieu of flowers, donations may benefit Sheridan VFW Post 1560, 758 Broadway; VAMC Volunteer Services, 1898 Fort Road; or American Legion Post 7, 137 N. Brooks St., Sheridan WY 82801.
J.R. Mitchell, 82, passed away on Thursday, November 26, 2009, at Sheridan County Memorial Hospital. J.R. Mitchell was born on December 28, 1926, in Buffalo, Wyoming, to Robert E. Mitchell and Stella Bowline Mitchell. He attended the Clearmont Schools for 12 years. During that time he was a member of the Piney Beef 4-H Club and earned his first heifer by thinning and hoeing three acres of sugar beets. After graduation, he was drafted into the Army and served in the Army of Occupation in Toyko, Japan, as a clerk-typist. He was discharged in 1947 with a rank of corporal. In 1952, he married Helen Cook and they ranched near Clearmont for 42 years until they retired and moved to Sheridan in 1994. While at Clearmont, Helen and Junior had an egg laying business called Clearcreek Eggs for sixteen years, and they raised and showed Registered Suffolk Sheep. He was an avid supporter of 4-H and FFA. He enjoyed being a weather observer, completing 40 years with the US Government and receiving the John Campanius award. During his lifetime, he helped organize the Cadiz Corporation, a reservoir company designed to help save agricultural water in the county. He also served as a director of the Lower Clearcreek Water Users Association and the Pratt and Ferris Ditch Company; served on boards of the Clearmont School District, the Agricultural Stabilization and Conservation Board and on the Chamber of Commerce Agricultural Resource Development Committee; and he was a member of Famers Union, Farm Bureau, Wyoming Wool Growers, the Sheridan County Wool Pool and AARP. In 1980, he was picked as outstanding man in agriculture. After moving to Sheridan, he served as Chairman of the Woodland Hills Improvement District and helped get the road paved into the district. Junior was well known for his gardening abilities and raised produce to sell, give away and show at the county fair. He also enjoyed reading, bowling, and doing water filings and playing cards. He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Helen Mitchell, four children; Betty Mitchell of Sheridan, Bonnie Drake (Lester) of Buffalo and Arvada, Robert Mitchell (Christal) of Miles City, Montana, and Jessie Mitchell of North Carolina. He is also survived by five grandchildren, Jennifer and Levi Drake, Alexander, Brandon and Nicholas Mitchell. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Mary Jones. A Memorial Service will be held on Friday, December 4 th , at 10:00 am at Kane Funeral Home with Pastor Marty Rostad officiating. Inurnment to follow at Sheridan Municipal Cemetery with Military honors with a reception to be held at the American Legion Club. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Senior Center, 211 Smith Street, Sheridan, WY 82801, or the donor's choice. Kane Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements.
Former Sheridan resident, Larry Lee Lewis, 58, passed away Friday, November 20, 2009 at St. Charles Hospital in Bend, OR. Cremation has taken place. Born September 11, 1951 in Corydon, IA to Willa "Billie" and Eugene W. Lewis of Sheridan, Larry attended Sheridan schools graduating from Sheridan High School in 1969. Upon graduation, he enlisted in the U.S. Army and trained at Ft. Bliss, Texas and was assigned to a Hawk Missile Unit. He was honorably discharged on February 7, 1973. Following his discharge he enlisted in the Wyoming National Guard. Larry married Mary Christine Bond of Sheridan in 1971. They have one son, David Anthony. The family later moved to Caldwell, ID. Larry attended Boise State University studying Forestry and Range Management. They later divorced. He married Linda Hager of Sisters, OR in 1990. They have two sons, James Weston and Kevin Cory Hager. He was an avid musician and played and sang in many bands throughout Central Oregon. Larry was employed by G. J. Construction for over 25 years where his craftsmanship helped create many homes in the Sisters area. He recently found his love of fishing and spent his free time enjoying the outdoors where his love of drawing was also rekindled. Larry was preceded in death by his father. He is survived by his wife Linda of Sisters; 3 sons, David Anthony Lewis of Seattle, WA; James Weston Lewis of Sisters; and Kevin Hager of Eugene, OR; his mother, Billie Lewis of Sheridan; one brother, Rick (Pat) of Silverton, OR; 2 sisters, Carol (Skip) Channel of Sheridan, WY; Janet (George) Buszkiewic of Sheridan, WY; his grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews. A Celebration of Life took place in Sisters on Monday, November 23, 2009. Larry was a loving son, husband, father, brother, grandfather, uncle and friend. He will be truly missed.
Richard Edmunds Wright was born on December 12, 1936 in Rock Springs, Wyoming to William D. and Ida Wright. Richard died on November 29, 2009 at the age of 72. Mr. Wright is survived by daughter Sherrill of Newbury Park, CA, daughter Tina Finn (David) of Cocoa, FL, and son Richard (Tracy) of Melbourne, FL. Mr. Wright is also survived by grandchildren Bradley, Ryan, Nicholas and Krista, and great grandchild, Aaron. Dick always enjoyed seeing his nieces and nephews - Cathy, Kaelene, Mark, Grant, Gina, Vicki, Kristi and Karyn - at family dinners Richard Wright attended schools in Sheridan Wyoming and was employed as a sign builder for Frontier Neon in Sheridan during the glorious era of neon signs. He also worked in that industry for a time in Oklahoma. Dick loved having the latest in technology and also enjoyed computer games and CB radios. Woodcarving was a favorite pastime for Richard in later years. Dick enjoyed taking road trips to visit his children and grandchildren. Richard was preceded in death by his wife Lola and by his parents. His siblings Tom (Estella) Wright, Bill (Em) Wright and Mary Hamilton all of Sheridan survive him. Memorial Services will be Thursday, December 3, 2009, 10:00 a.m. at Kane Funeral Home with Reverend Doug Goodwin officiating. Memorials may benefit First Christian Church c/o Doug Goodwin at 102 S. Connor, or The Sheridan Senior Center c/o Carmen Rideout at 211 Smith St. Kane Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements.
Clearmont native Beatrice “Bea” Ygnacia Guerrero, 65, died Sunday, Nov. 15, 2009, in Portland, Ore. A celebration of life was Nov. 21 at Ross Hollywood Chapel in Portland. Born Aug. 15, 1944, in Clearmont to Ygnacia and Celso Guerrero, she was raised in Sheridan. She attended Sheridan College majoring in journalism. She moved in 1969 to Oregon, where she worked for the U.S. Forest Service retiring after 30 years as a dispatcher in 2001. Her life partner was Robert Ed Williams. Survivors include two sisters, Josie Vigil and Theresa Guerrero; six brothers, Arthur, Frank, Nick, Mike, Joaquin and Louie Guerrero; three stepchildren, Robert Jr., Lucinda and Trusley Williams; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Gene Kilpatrick, 61, of Sheridan died Monday, Nov. 30, 2009, at Sheridan Memorial Hospital. Memorial services are 10 a.m. Monday at Kane Funeral Home with the Rev. Tom Ogg officiating.
Richard Edmunds Wright, 72, died Sunday, Nov. 29, 2009, at Sheridan Manor. Memorial services are 10 a.m. Thursday at Kane Funeral Home with the Rev. Doug Goodwin officiating. Born Dec. 12, 1936, in Rock Springs to William D. and Ida Wright, he attended schools in Sheridan and worked as a sign builder for Frontier Neon here. He also was employed in the same industry for a time in Oklahoma. Mr. Wright enjoyed the latest in technology, computer games and CB radios. In his later years, he also enjoyed woodcarving and road trips to visit children and grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife, Lola. Survivors include two daughters, Sherrill of Newbury Park, Calif., and Tina Finn of Cocoa Fla.; one son, Richard of Melbourne, Fla.; two brothers, Tom and Bill Wright of Sheridan; a sister, Mary Hamilton of Sheridan; four grandchildren; a great-grandchild; and numerous nieces and nephews. Memorials may benefit First Christian Church c/o Doug Goodwin, 102 S. Connor St., Sheridan, or The Sheridan Senior Center c/o Carmen Rideout, 211 Smith St.
Sheridan native Patricia Lee Koch, 80, died Saturday, Nov. 28, 2009, in Highlands Ranch, Colo. Memorial service is 2 p.m. Friday at Kane Funeral Home with the Rev. Doug Goodwin officiating. Burial will follow at Sheridan Municipal Cemetery. Born Sept. 21, 1929, in Sheridan to Earl and Valgene (Talbot) Hughes, she was raised and graduated from high school in Buffalo. She moved to Sheridan after graduation, where she met Orval Koch. They were married May 17, 1953. Mrs. Koch worked for the telephone company as an operator for 10 years. Following the birth of her second daughter, she stayed at home to raise her family. When their five daughters were older, she became a certified nursing assistant and worked six years for Eventide Nursing Home, then 17 years at Sheridan VA Medical Center until retirement in 1995. She enjoyed cooking, canning, the mountains, and spending time with family and friends. During her later years she battled kidney disease but was known to remain caring, loving and courageous without complaint.She was preceded in death by her husband; a sister, Jean Whitted of Illinois; a brother, Bill Hughes of Cheyenne; and a granddaughter. Survivors include three sisters, June Hale of Casper, Mary Lou Bernard of Douglas, and Phyllis Hepp of Buffalo; five children, Cheryl Romanjenko of Sheridan, Debbie Koch of Aurora, Colo., Susan Koch of Highlands Ranch, Linda Koch of Park City, Utah, and Amy Koch-Kobielusz of Highlands Ranch; five grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.Memorials may benefit the National Kidney Foundation, 30 E. 33rd St., New York City, NY 10016.
Joan Lucas Dixon, 86, died Thursday, November 26, 2009, in Westview Healthcare Center in Sheridan. Joan was born in Paoli, Pennsylvania on Midstream Farm, to Gerald Lucas and Adelaide Loughead. As a child she loved the horses and pets she had on the farm. Her love of animals stayed with her through her life, and she was always thrilled to provide a home to whatever stray or homeless pet came her way. As a young woman Joan spent three summers in Birney, Montana on a working dude ranch. That experience cemented her love of the west, and she developed a strong desire to one day make her home near the western mountains. Joan also loved the ocean and particularly enjoyed spending her summers in Maine on the Atlantic coast. As a young woman she also learned to ski at Mount Tremblant in Quebec, where she eventually obtained her certificate as a ski instructor. During World War II Joan nursed wounded veterans at Valley Forge. At the same time she obtained her pilot_s license with the ultimate aim of joining the Air Force. For a short time she was part of an adventurous group of civilian women pilots who shuttled warplanes for the Air Force; however her goal of joining the armed services was cut short when the war ended. After the war she married Morris Dixon, and as an avid horsewoman, she spent several years helping him train thoroughbred racehorses. Eventually they both gave in to their desire to live in the west. She and Morris bought Rapid Creek Ranch in Sheridan and they moved the family there in 1962. They raised registered Red Angus cattle on the ranch for many years. Joan spent many happy years teaching skiing at Antelope Butte ski area in the Big Horn Mountains. For a time she also taught honors literature and reading classes part-time at Holy Name School. She loved her home near the mountains, and continued to cherish her horses and pets until her death. She had a vibrant personality and loved working with people. She was also a skilled pianist and artist. She spent much of her time riding, gardening, reading, listening to music, and watching the wildlife surrounding her home. Survivors include her sister Barbara, her four children, Kathy Smiley, Daniel Dixon, Mark Dixon and Shawn Dixon, and four grandchildren. Memorials may benefit the Sheridan Animal Shelter. Private family services will be held at a later date. Kane funeral home has been entrusted with arrangements.