Sheridan County's Daily NEWSpaper
Sheridan County's Daily NEWSpaper
Webspinner's Note: We are starting to archive our obituaries. They are archived as to the DAY THE NOTICE WAS IN OUR NEWSPAPER.
January 31, 2005 Edition
Eva McNealey, 84, of Sheridan died Friday, Jan. 28, 2005, in Sheridan Memorial Hospital. Viewing is 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Tuesday at Kane Funeral Home. Funeral services will be 2 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home with the Rev. Don Derryberry officiating. Burial will be in Sheridan Municipal Cemetery. Mrs. McNealey was born Jan. 18, 1921, in Sheridan to Walter and Regie Hampton. She married Glen Warden in 1939. He died in 1943. She married Dean McNealey in 1950. She worked at Sheridan Memorial Hospital for 24 years until 1992, when she retired. In addition to her first husband, she was preceded in death by Mr. McNealey, four brothers and an infant sister. Survivors include two sons, Jim of Clarksville, Tenn., and Mike of Buffalo; a daughter, Mary Feindt of Denver; a sister, June Kepp of Cheyenne; a brother, Claude Hampton of Alamogordo, N.M.; seven grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren.
Arden L. “Mick” Darnell, 83, of Sheridan died Saturday, Jan. 29, 2005, at Sheridan Manor. Cremation has taken place. Memorial services will be 10 a.m. Saturday at First Presbyterian Church in Scottsbluff, Neb. Local arrangements are with Kane Funeral Home. Mr. Darnell was born June 20, 1921, in Lynch, Neb., to Luke and Sera (Chambers) Darnell. He grew up and attended schools in Lynch. He joined the U.S. Marine Corps in 1942 and served with the 1st Marine Division on Guadalcanal and Bogainville. He was honorably discharged in 1946. He married Dorothy Braithwaite on Oct. 15, 1944, in Spencer, Neb. After his discharge, he worked as a butcher until 1990, when he retired. He enjoyed woodworking, working with animals — especially horses — and spending time with his grandchildren. He was a lifetime member of Veterans of Foreign Wars. He was preceded in death by his wife, two sisters and eight brothers. Survivors include two sons, Michael of Sheridan and Maurice of Greeley, Colo.; seven grandchildren; and one great-granddaughter. Memorials may be made to St. Peter's Discretionary Fund in care of Kay Roush, First Federal Savings Bank, P.O. Box 6007, Sheridan, WY 82801.
Harley G. Bartenhagen, 78, of Sheridan died Friday, Jan. 28, 2005, at Sheridan Manor. Cremation has taken place. Memorial services will be 10 a.m. Tuesday at First United Methodist Church with the Rev. Don Derryberry officiating. Inurnment will in Sheridan Elks Cemetery with military honors. Arrangements are with Kane Funeral Home. Mr. Bartenhagen was born March 29, 1926, in Casper to William and Eleanor (Purkey) Bartenhagen. He grew up and attended schools in Sheridan and graduated from Sheridan High School. He joined the Navy in March 1944 in Bremerton, Wash., and served on the aircraft carrier USS Belleau Wood. He was honorably discharged in May 1946. After the service, he worked at Sheridan VA Medical Center, first as a nursing assistant and later in the water and sewage treatment plant. He married Mary Moshovsky in 1950 in Sheridan. After retirement, he enjoyed travel, hunting, camping, fishing and being with his grandchildren. He taught his sons, grandsons and many neighborhood children how to work on bicycles, motorcycles and cars. A life member of Sheridan Elks Lodge 520, he was preceded in death by a sister, Lois Miech, and a half brother, Wesley Hoffman. Survivors include three sons, Steven of Denver, David of Williston, N.D., and Keith of Oklahoma City; a daughter, Lexie Culligan of Sheridan; a sister, Eunice Hansen of Sandy, Utah; a brother, Carl of Sheridan; and nine grandchildren. Memorials may be made to Sheridan Senior Center Meals on Wheels in care of Brenda Torrens and Nicole Christensen, Bank of the West, P.O. Box 9000, Sheridan, WY 82801.
Helen Holwell, 100, of Sheridan died today, Jan. 31, 2005, at Sheridan Manor. Arrangements are pending with Kane Funeral Home.
Kenneth Copp, 60, of Ranchester died Sunday, Jan. 30, 2005, in Gillette. Arrangements are pending with Kane Funeral Home.
Elizabeth `Tina' Niedringhaus, 78, of Sheridan died Monday, Jan. 24, 2005, in Westview Health Care Center. A memorial service will be 11 a.m. Saturday at St. Peter's Episcopal Church with the Rev. David Duprey officiating. Arrangements are with Champion Ferries Funeral Home. Memorials may be made to the Sheridan Dog & Cat Shelter, 84 East Ridge Road, Sheridan, WY 82801.
January 29, 2005, Edition
Kenneth D. Lesh
Sheridan native Kenneth D. Lesh, 66, of Vernal, Utah, died Wednesday, Jan. 26, 2005, at his residence. A memorial service will be 11 a.m. Monday at St. Paul's Episcopal Church in Vernal with the Rev. Nina Stasser officiating. Arrangements are with Thomson-Blackburn Vernal Mortuary. Mr. Lesh was born March 29, 1938, in Sheridan to Fae Clark and Kenneth Boyd Lesh. He was the stepson of Harold E. Atterbury. He attended schools in Sheridan and was a 1960 graduate of the University of Wyoming with a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering. He served in the U.S. Air Force from 1961-66 and in the Reserve from 1966-72. He was a navigator/countermeasures officer and member of the 13th Bomb Squadron. While serving in Vietnam, he received the Air Force medal for meritorious achievement during military flights. He moved to Vernal in 1966 and worked at Slumberger Wells Services until 1967, when he became a civil engineer for the U.S. Forest Service. He retired in 1994. He married Janet Banks on Nov. 18, 1967. He enjoyed the outdoors, including hiking, fishing, skiing and horseback riding. In addition to participating with his daughters in horse shows, he was a show announcer. He also belonged to Phi Delta Theta fraternity, Vernal Elks Lodge, National Association of Retired Federal Employees and Rising Star Riders saddle club. Survivors include his wife; two daughters, Kathy Kunz and Heidi Iverson; and a granddaughter. Memorials may be made to St. Paul's Episcopal Church.
Arthur L. Ward
Former Sheridan resident Arthur Lee “Bub” Ward, 81, died Tuesday, Jan. 11, 2005, at his home in Alliance, Neb. Funeral services were Jan. 14 at the Bates-Gould Funeral Home Chapel. Graveside services with military rites were at Crawford Cemetery. Mr. Ward was born June 8, 1923, in Alliance to Benjamin and Olive (Benjamin) Ward. He married Mary Jane Strick on July 6, 1947, in Alliance. He worked for the Nebraska Fish and Wildlife Game Commission for many years and served in the 2nd Cavalry Brigade at the end of World War II. He was a herdsman for the Beckton Stock Farm in Sheridan for many years and foreman for the Star Ranch north of Lakeside, Neb. He enjoyed fishing with his brother at Deer Field, S.D. He was a lifetime member of Veterans of Foreign Wars, Elks and the Red Angus Association. He was preceded in death by two sisters. Survivors include his wife; five daughters, Sandra S. Suhr of Minatare, Neb., Janet L. Woodworth of Gillette, Connie J. Hilliker of Gordon, Neb., Thelma L. Muhr of Alliance and Linda J. Heflin of Harlan, Iowa; 11 grandchildren; and 15 great-grandchildren. Memorials may be made to the VA or the Good Samaritan Health Care Center Alzheimer's Unit.
Donald `Pete' Lay
BUFFALO — Donald “Pete” Lay, 67, died Friday, Jan. 28, 2005, in Johnson County Health Care Center. Funeral services will be 2 p.m. Tuesday in the Adams Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Kirk Peters officiating. Visitation will be 1-9 p.m. Monday in the funeral home chapel. Burial will be in Willow Grove Cemetery with military graveside honors by Veterans of Foreign Wars and American Legion. Memorials may be made to the Buffalo Cancer Support Group in care of Adams Funeral Home.
January 28, 2005 Edition
Berneice Todd, 74, of Alliance, Neb., died Wednesday, Jan. 26, 2005, in Rapid City Regional Hospital. She was mother of Janelle Kukuchka of Sheridan and Susan Lanka of Ranchester. A funeral Mass will be celebrated 10:30 a.m. Saturday at Holy Rosary Catholic Church in Alliance with the Rev. Brian Ernest officiating. A rosary will be recited at 7 p.m. today at the church. Mrs. Todd was born June 11, 1930, in Hemingford, Neb. She married Jack V. Todd on Nov. 23, 1950. Survivors include her husband; two other children, Gretchen Rischling and Jim Todd of Alliance; two sisters, Madelyn Boyer of Alliance and Sharon Engel of Rushville, Neb.; a brother, Don Christensen of Gering, Neb.; 10 grandchildren; and one great-grandson. Memorials may be made to the Alliance Public Schools Foundation-Band Program, 1601 Sweetwater, or to Holy Rosary Catholic Church, 1104 Cheyenne, Alliance, NE 69301.
Hulda Faye Kysar, 90, of Sheridan died Tuesday, Jan. 25, 2005, in Sheridan Manor following a long illness. Cremation has taken place. A memorial service will be 2 p.m. Monday at Champion Ferries Funeral Home with the Rev. Don Derryberry officiating. Mrs. Kysar was born March 31, 1914, in Poughkeepsie, N.Y., to Henry Allen and Hazel May (Vradenburg) Moore. She grew up and attended schools in New York and moved to California in 1958. She moved to Sheridan in 1972 and lived in Heritage Towers for many years before moving to Sheridan Manor. She was a volunteer worker at the Sheridan VA Medical Center and member of the Rebekah Assembly of Wyoming for many years, serving as district deputy president and noble grand. She also belonged to Navy Mothers and Veterans of Foreign Wars. She was preceded in death by her husband. Survivors include a daughter, Barbara Steve of Seal Beach, Calif.; a son, Raynard Wrobleski of Oregon; two granddaughters; and four great-grandsons.
Elizabeth Shepley Niedringhaus, 78, of Sheridan died Monday, Jan. 24, 2005, in Westview Health Care Center. Memorial services will be 11 a.m. Saturday at St. Peter's Episcopal Church with the Rev. David Duprey officiating. Arrangements are with Champion Ferries Funeral Home. Memorials may be made to the Sheridan Dog and Cat Shelter, 84 East Ridge Road, Sheridan, WY 82801.
Harley G. Bartenhagen, 78, of Sheridan died this morning, Jan. 28, 2005, at Sheridan Manor. Arrangements are pending with Kane Funeral Home.
January 27, 2005 Edition
Former Sheridan resident Laura F. Michalek, 80, died Wednesday, Jan. 19, 2005, in Cheyenne. At her request, cremation has taken place, and a private memorial service will be later. Mrs. Michalek was born Aug. 28, 1924, to Andrew Garom and Pauline (Sumgallal) Brenkus. She attended schools in Sheridan. She married Joseph Peter Michalek. He preceded her in death. She later lived with her sister in Denver, Sheridan and Cody before moving to Cheyenne. She was an avid reader and enjoyed crossword puzzles and watching sports on television. In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by a daughter, Terry Ann (Deutsch) Edgar of Cody. Survivors include a son, Michael of Denver; a sister, Charlotte Newton of Cheyenne; and a brother, John of Banner.
Hulda Faye Kysar, 90, of Sheridan died Tuesday, Jan. 25, 2005, in Sheridan Manor. Cremation has taken place. A memorial service will be 2 p.m. Monday at Champion Ferries Funeral Home with the Rev. Don Derryberry officiating.
January 26, 2005 Edition
Frances F. Eckerman, 87, of Sheridan died Sunday, Jan. 23, 2005, in Sheridan Manor. At her request, cremation has taken place, and a private family memorial service will be later. Arrangements are with Champion Ferries Funeral Home. Mrs. Eckerman was born Dec. 31, 1917, in Miles City, Mont., to Frank and Lulu Belle (Miller) Kelsey. She grew up and attended school in Powder River County, Mont. She graduated from Sheridan High School. After high school, she married. She was later divorced. She spent most of her adult life in Wyoming. She was preceded in death by two brothers and four sisters. Survivors include many nieces and nephews.
Hulda Faye Kysar, 90, of Sheridan died Tuesday, Jan. 25, 2005, in Sheridan Manor. Arrangements are pending with Champion Ferries Funeral Home.
January 25, 2005 Edition
James A. Wisner, 75, of Sheridan died Sunday, Jan. 23, 2005, in Sheridan VA Medical Center. Viewing is until 7 p.m. today at Champion Ferries Funeral Home. Funeral services will be 2 p.m. Wednesday at Trinity Lutheran Church with the Revs. Ronald Nelson and Wilbur Holz officiating. Burial will be in Sheridan Municipal Cemetery with military rites by the American Legion and Wyoming National Guard. Mr. Wisner was born Nov. 4, 1929, in Metz, Ind., to Liston and Luella (Porter) Wisner. He grew up and graduated from high school in Metz. He enlisted in the U.S. Army, serving in the military police. After service he was a police officer in Angola, Ind., for 22 years. He married Norma French on April 16, 1954, in Angola. After leaving the police force, he became a probation officer. He also worked part time at Weight Funeral Home for a number of years. He moved to Sheridan in 1992. He was a member of the Odd Fellows, American Legion, Moose Lodge and Fraternal Order of Police. He also belonged to Calvary Lutheran Church in Angola and Trinity Lutheran Church in Sheridan. He enjoyed hunting, fishing and bowling. Survivors include his wife; a son, Stephen French of Aurora, Colo.; two daughters, Linda Prosser-Livingston of Colorado Springs, Colo., and Julie Adams of Sheridan; a brother, Richard of Auburn, Ind.; a sister, Glida Wisner of South Bend, Ind.; and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
BUFFALO — Lynn Smith, 52, of Buffalo died Sunday, Jan. 23, 2005, after a battle with cancer. Funeral services will be 10 a.m. Friday in the Adams Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Su DeBree officiating. Visitation will be 1-9 p.m. Thursday and 8-9:30 a.m. Friday in the chapel. Burial will be in Willow Grove Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the Johnson County YMCA in care of the funeral home.
Elizabeth Shepley Niedringhaus, 78, of Sheridan died Monday, Jan. 24, 2005, in Westview Health Care Center. Arrangements are pending with Champion Ferries Funeral Home.
January 24, 2005 Edition
Sheridan native Tony Julio, 91, of Denver, died Friday, Dec. 31, 2004. Funeral services were Jan. 4 in Mount Olive Lutheran Church in Aurora, Colo. Mr. Julio was born Aug. 11, 1913, to Nick and Lucy Julio. He was a 1931 graduate of Thermopolis High School and a 1939 graduate of Rapid City School of Mines, where he earned a degree in chemical engineering. He worked on nuclear power plants throughout the United States and Europe. He volunteered at his church and at Hamilton Middle School, constructing manipulative devices for mentally and physically challenged children. Survivors include his wife, Selma; three daughters; one son; two sisters, Lucile Thompson of Pine Bluffs and Delma Latham of Salem, Ore.; nine grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.
Wiley J. Brimmer, 88, of Sheridan died Saturday, Jan. 22, 2005, in Sheridan VA Medical Center. Cremation has taken place, and at Mr. Brimmer's request, no services are planned. Arrangements are with Kane Funeral Home. Mr. Brimmer was born July 17, 1916, in Hulett to Lyall and Iva M. (Butts) Brimmer. He married Edna I. “Pinky” Thorn in Deadwood, S.D. He worked as a rancher until the beginning of World War II, then entered the U.S. Army and served until 1945. He returned home and resumed ranching. The couple moved to Sheridan in 1975 to be near their children. Mr. Brimmer enjoyed horseback riding, fishing and other outdoor activities as well as spending time with family and friends. He was preceded in death by three brothers, Lorraine, K.C. and Thadeus; a son, Timothy; and a grandson. Survivors include his wife; a daughter, Judy Pehringer of Sheridan; a son, David “Mike” of Sheridan; a sister, Freda Roberts of Whitefish, Mont.; eight grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren.
Doris Witzleben, 92, of Billings and Sheridan, died Friday, Jan. 21, 2005, at St. John's Lutheran Home in Billings. Graveside services will be 11 a.m. Tuesday at Terrace Memorial Gardens. Arrangements are with Smith Funeral Home. Mrs. Witzleben was born May 15, 1912, in Sheridan. She was the adopted daughter of C.B. Moore. She married Carl Witzleben on March 2, 1935, in Sheridan. She was a homemaker. She was preceded in death by her husband and a brother. Survivors include three children, Bob and Norma of Billings and David of Tigard, Ore.; three grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.
James A. Wisner, 75, of Sheridan died Sunday, Jan. 23, 2005, in Sheridan VA Medical Center. Viewing will be 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Tuesday at Champion Ferries Funeral Home. Funeral services will be 2 p.m. Wednesday at Trinity Lutheran Church with the Revs. Ronald Nelson and Wilbur Holz officiating. Burial will be in Sheridan Municipal Cemetery with military rites by the American Legion and Wyoming National Guard. Memorials may be made to Lutheran World Relief in care of Trinity Lutheran Church, 135 Crescent Drive, Sheridan, WY 82801. Frances F. Eckerman Frances F. Eckerman, 87, of Sheridan died Sunday, Jan. 23, 2005, in Sheridan Manor. Arrangements are pending with Champion Ferries Funeral Home.
January 21, 2005 Edition
Elizabeth Kinmont Wilkins, 70, of Sheridan died today, Jan. 21, 2005, at Sheridan Memorial Hospital. Cremation has taken place. Inurnment will be in Lindenwood Cemetery in Fort Wayne, Ind. Arrangements are with Kane Funeral Home. Memorials may be made to the Sheridan Dog & Cat Shelter or a recipient of the donor's choice in care of Kay Roush, First Federal Savings Bank, P.O. Box 6007, Sheridan, WY 82801.
January 20, 2005 Edition
Shirley Anne Poston, 68, of Ucross died Tuesday, Jan. 18, 2005, at her residence. Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Saturday in the Adams Funeral Home Chapel in Buffalo with the Rev. Tim Tromble officiating, followed by a celebration of Mrs. Poston's life at noon at the White Buffalo. Visitation will be 1-9 p.m. Friday and 8-10:30 a.m. Saturday at the funeral home. A private burial by the family will be later. Mrs. Poston was born May 12, 1936, in Sheridan to Harold and Halcyon Scott. She grew up in Story and was a 1954 graduate of Sheridan High School. She participated in high school rodeo and was the Sheridan-WYO Rodeo Queen in 1953. She married Louie Brock in 1954 in Story. They moved to Bozeman, Mont., where they attended college. They returned to Wyoming and resided on the family ranch south of Buffalo for 15 years. Mrs. Poston worked for several years as a secretary for the Northern Wyoming Mental Health Center. She later was employed on the Texaco ranch north of Buffalo as a secretary, wrangler and groundskeeper and later was a guide and outfitter. She worked for Texaco for more than 25 years, until her death. She moved to Story in 1971 and married Chuck Poston there on Aug. 20, 1977. The Postons ranched in Story until 1998, when they moved to the ranch on Piney Creek near Ucross. Mr. Poston died in 1999. Mrs. Poston sponsored high school rodeo for many years and was a 4-H leader and a member of the Wyoming Cattle Women's Association, Beta Sigma Phi, PTO and the Piney Homemakers. She enjoyed bowling and playing darts. She continued to rodeo until ill health forced her to quit in 2002. She was an avid gardener, a member of the Wyoming Art Association and did craft shows with Western Handicraft. Survivors include two daughters, Berva Brock of Banner and Sherry Harms of Chandler, Ariz.; a sister, Galeen Rice of Hudson, Fla.; and four grandchildren.
Sheridan native Harry Bruce Marker, 75, of Cheyenne died Monday, Jan. 17, 2005, in Lake Havasu City, Ariz. A memorial service will be at a later date. Arrangements are with Lietz-Fraze Funeral Home & Crematory. Mr. Marker was born April 11, 1929, in Sheridan to Phillip and Katherine (Miller) Marker. He was a veteran of the Army during the Korean conflict and worked as an environmental specialist for the Wyoming Fish and Game in Cheyenne for many years. He was a member of the Cheyenne Rifle & Pistol Club, the National Rifle Association and Rock Hound. He was an avid outdoorsman and enjoyed hunting, fishing, hiking and teaching those skills. He and his wife, Donna, began spending winters in Lake Havasu six years ago. He was preceded in death by a sister, Edith Lou Eaton. In addition to his wife, survivors include a son, David Bruce of Cheyenne; a sister, Lorna Worswick of Pahoa, Hawaii; and three grandchildren.
BUFFALO — Max Lowther, 83, of Buffalo died Wednesday, Jan. 19, 2005, at his residence. Funeral services will be 2 p.m. Saturday at First United Methodist Church in Buffalo with the Rev. Su Debree officiating. Arrangements are with Adams Funeral Home. Memorials may be made to the Buffalo Chapter of Compassionate Friends in care of the funeral home.
January 19, 2005 Edition
Longtime Birney, Mont., rancher Marcus L. Nance III, 88, died Friday, Jan. 14, 2005, at his residence in Billings. Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Monday at Kane Funeral Home in Sheridan. Mr. Nance was born Aug. 1, 1916, in Jackson, Miss., to Mamie Powell Nance and Dr. Marcus L. Nance II. Dr. Nance died in 1917, and the family, including Mr. Nance's grandparents, later moved to Montana. Mr. Nance graduated from Sheridan High School, where he played basketball, and enrolled at Tulane University in 1934. His roping skills earned him a place as the opening act for Ethel Merman at the Roosevelt Hotel. He transferred to the University of Minnesota as a junior in college and graduated with a degree in psychology. He married Ruth Ellison in 1939 in St. Paul, Minn. The couple made their home in Birney. Mrs. Nance died in 1979. Mr. Nance remained active in ranching until August 2004, when he moved to Billings following hip surgery. Survivors include two sons, Marcus L. Nance IV of Seattle and Jay T. of Birney; a daughter, Susanne Boedecker of Billings; seven grandchildren; and 14 great-grandchildren. Memorials may be made to a charity of the donor's choice.
Sheridan native Kenneth Leroy Sackett, 70, of Newcastle died Saturday, Jan. 15, 2005, in Weston County Health Services following a long illness. At his request, no services are planned. Burial will be at a later date. Mr. Sackett was born May 26, 1934, in Sheridan to Big Horn City pioneers LeRoy Otice and Bessie Irene (Collins) Sackett. Mr. Sackett grew up in Big Horn and was a 1954 graduate of Big Horn High School, where he played football. He worked with his father at the Big Horn service station on evenings and weekends. He joined the volunteer fire department while still in school, making him the department's youngest member. The department gave him a ring when he moved away. He worked for the U.S. Forest Service after graduation, marking timber, and later became a Wyoming highway patrolman. He served as a photographer/investigator for two years with the U.S. Army Military Police. He married Eugenia Burdette. After service in the Army, he returned to the WHP and was transferred to Newcastle in 1960 as supervisor of the Port of Entry, overseeing operations for Campbell, Crook and Weston counties. He was employed by the state of Wyoming for 20 years. He married Dorla Study (Webb) in 1969 in Gillette. He owned and operated the Wyoming Trailer Park and later, after attending Western College of Auctioneering, conducted auctions for several years. He also worked as a licensed realtor and operated a sewing and vacuum sales and repair store in Newcastle and Gillette. He worked at the Amax Coal Co.'s Belle Ayr Mine until 1990, when ill health forced his retirement. He was an avid outdoorsman and enjoyed hunting, trapping, camping, snowmobiling, motorcycling, four-wheeling and fishing. He was a founding member and first president of the Weston County Sno-Thumpers Club. He also enjoyed photography. He was a Cub Master and Boy Scout committee member for many years, enjoyed flying and was a member of the Civil Air Patrol, Odd Fellows, Eagles and Elks lodges and the West County and Big Horn Historical Society. Survivors include his wife; three children, Kenneth Wayne of Ventura, Calif., Daniel Wallace of Kemmerer and Kathy Elaine Sackett of Newcastle; five stepchildren, Valorie Elliott and Bart F. Webb, both of Gillette, Robert A. Webb of Newcastle, Pat F. Webb of Rapid City and Kari Sue Webb of Deadwood, S.D.; a sister, Dolores Clifton of Greybull and Mesa, Ariz.; and 14 grandchildren. Memorials may be made to the Weston County Tobacco Free Coalition or to the Big Horn Museum.
January 18, 2005 Edition
Phyllis Elizabeth Gillis, 87, of Sheridan died Saturday, Jan. 15, 2005, in Bonnie Bluejacket Memorial Nursing Home in Greybull. At her request, cremation has taken place, and a private memorial service will be later. Arrangements are with Champion Ferries Funeral Home. Mrs. Gillis was born July 30, 1917, in Denver to Frederick William and Katherine Christine (Gimple) Nichols. She attended St. Joseph Catholic School in Fort Collins, Colo., through eighth grade, then attended school in Denver, where she graduated from South High School. She married Roy Gillis on July 25, 1945, in Denver. She concentrated on being a homemaker and mother and enjoyed sewing and making clothes for her daughters. She was involved with photography for 50 years. She enjoyed being outdoors, sitting on her front porch feeding the squirrels and birds. She was a member of Holy Name Catholic Church in Sheridan. She was preceded in death by her husband in 1985, a daughter, two brothers, a sister and a granddaughter. Survivors include a son, Robert of Sheridan; three daughters, Margaret Schwabauer and Anne Chivers, both of Sheridan, and Christine McMillan of Greybull; a brother, Fred Nichols of Grand Junction, Colo.; a sister, Mary Quinn of Denver; 15 grandchildren; and 18 great-grandchildren. Memorials may be made to Veterans of Foreign Wars in care of Karen Green, First Interstate Bank, P.O. Box 2007, Sheridan, WY 82801.
Lena Audrey (Welch) Koltiska, 76, of Sheridan died Saturday, Jan. 15, 2005, in Sheridan Memorial Hospital. Vigil service will be 7 p.m. Wednesday at Champion Ferries Funeral Home. Funeral liturgy will be 10 a.m. Thursday at Holy Name Catholic Church with the Rev. Thomas Ogg officiating. Burial will be in Sheridan Memorial Cemetery. Mrs. Koltiska was born Feb. 21, 1928, in Big Horn to Everett J. and Maggie (Verley) Welch. She attended grade school at Big Horn and McCormick and was a 1944 graduate of Sheridan High School. She married George Koltiska on Sept. 14, 1946, at the home of her sister on Lower Prairie Dog. The Koltiskas resided on their ranch on Cat Creek. She was a Certified Nurse Assistant and worked at Sheridan Memorial Hospital for more than 30 years. She also worked as an Avon representative. She enjoyed sewing, quilting, needlework, knitting and crocheting. She also enjoyed weekly garage sale excursions. She was a 4-H leader for 25 years and took hundreds of children to Mountain Camp. She was past president of the Does. She was preceded in death by her husband; two brothers, Junior and Kao Welch; and five sisters, Marjorie Ensor, Florence “Shorty” Boyer, Mary Ellen Good Palmier, Ruth Sherard and Rosalie McCalla. Survivors include two sons, Gary and Robert; two daughters, Audrey Koltiska and Deborah Adams; a sister, Margaret Pilch; nine grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren. Memorials may be made to the Lena Koltiska Arbor Fund in care of Brenda Torrens, Bank of the West, P.O. Box 9000, Sheridan, WY 82801.
BUFFALO — Lloyd Thomas Kooima, 61, of Buffalo died Saturday, Jan. 15, 2005, at his residence. Funeral services will be 10 a.m. Jan. 25 at First Presbyterian Church in Sheridan and 10 a.m. Jan. 29 at Bethel Christian Fellowship Church in Denver with the Rev. Malcolm Schaad officiating. Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society in care of Adams Funeral Home, 351 N. Adams St., Buffalo, WY 82834.
Leo Marion Hollcroft, 89, of Buffalo died Sunday, Jan. 16, 2005, at Amie Holt Care Center. He was father of Kathleen Anne Hollcroft of Arvada. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 10 a.m. Friday at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Buffalo with the Rev. George Von Kaenel as celebrant. A rosary will be recited 7 p.m. Thursday at the church. Visitation will be 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Thursday at Adams Funeral Home. Burial will be in Willow Grove Cemetery with military graveside rites by the American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars. Mr. Hollcroft was born June 9, 1915, to Samuel and Goldie Hollcroft on the family ranch on Powder River in northeast Johnson County. He attended country school near Mickleberry Draw and worked on ranches as a youth. Mr. Hollcroft joined the U.S. Navy in 1937 and spent nine years as a radioman. He was promoted to radioman 1st class. His assignments included the Naval Air Patrol in California and Puerto Rico and the naval base in Port of Spain, Trinidad, for two years. He was the radioman on duty in New Hampshire and handled the original SOS and emergency messages when the submarine Squalus was lost. He also served on the USS Chachalaca, a minesweeper; the USS Drexler, a destroyer; and the USS Inflict, a destroyer escort during World War II. He was honorably discharged. He married Claire Carroll on June 25, 1944, in Boston. They returned to Wyoming after the war. Mr. Hollcroft was employed by Pure Oil. The family moved in 1948 to Powell, where Mr. Hollcroft farmed for 17 years. The family returned to Buffalo and the family ranch on Powder River in 1967. Mr. Hollcroft ranched until 1983, when he retired. He was a member of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, Knights of Columbus, VFW and the American Legion. He was preceded in death by a brother and a sister. Survivors include his wife; a son, Leo M. Jr. of Hawthorne, Nev.; two other daughters, Marilyn Anne Vercimak of Rawlins and Carol Marie Key of Missoula, Mont.; seven grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.
January 17, 2005 Edition
Lena Koltiska, 76, of Sheridan, died Saturday, Jan. 15, 2005, in Sheridan Memorial Hospital. Vigil service will be 7 p.m. Wednesday at Champion Ferries Funeral Home. Funeral liturgy will be 10 a.m. Thursday at Holy Name Catholic Church with the Rev. Thomas Ogg officiating. Burial will be in Sheridan Municipal Cemetery.
Marcus L. Nance, 88, of Birney, Mont., died Friday, Jan. 14, 2005, in Billings. Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Jan. 24 at Kane Funeral Home. Burial will be in the Sheridan Elks Cemetery.
Phyllis E. Gillis, 87, of Sheridan died Saturday, Jan. 15, 2005, in Bonnie Bluejacket Nursing Home in Greybull. Arrangements are pending with Champion Ferries Funeral Home.
January 15, 2005 Edition
Ramon “Ray” Nile, 74, of Forsyth, Mont., died Tuesday, Jan. 11, 2005. He was father of Bruce Nile of Sheridan. Visitation will be 1-7 p.m. Sunday in the Chapel of Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home in Forsyth. Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Monday at the Concordia Lutheran Church in Forsyth. Mr. Nile was born Oct. 6, 1930, in Forsyth to Ralph and Opal Nile. He was a 1948 graduate of Forsyth High School and graduated from Montana State University-Bozeman in 1952 with a degree in agriculture education. He served in the Army for two years in Korea and received a Purple Heart. He married Patricia Skaggs on Dec. 5, 1954. They moved to Deer Lodge, Mont., where Mr. Nile was county extension agent. In 1956, they started farming in the Howard Valley, Mont., near Mr. Nile's parents. Mr. Nile enjoyed spending time with his children and grandchildren, attending their events and helping with 4-H projects. He was a member of Concordia Lutheran Church and held many offices within the church. He served as a 4-H Leader, member of the school board, director of the First State Bank, School Board Member and Director of the First State Bank and was a member of Tax Appeal Board. He was a director on the Mountain States Sugar Beet Association board and a member of the Western Sugar Grower Research Committee. He served as president of the Rosebud/Treasure County Farm Bureau and was a director of the Montana State Farm Bureau, a director of Mountains West Farm Bureau Insurance and a member of the American Farm Bureau Sugar Advisory Committee. He enjoyed traveling, camping and visiting historical places in the United States and abroad. He was preceded in death by a sister, Maxine, and one grandchild. Other survivors include his wife; three other children, Kim of Forsyth, Dana of North Myrtle Beach, S.C., and Sharon of Billings; a brother, Francis of Forsyth; a sister, Bonnie Steiger of Cowley; 12 grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren. Memorials may be made to the Concordia Lutheran Church remodeling fund or to a charity of the donor's choice.
January 14, 2005 Edition
Former Sheridan resident Arlene Kay, 69, of Cheyenne died Tuesday, Jan. 11, 2005, in Cheyenne. Memorial services will be 1:30 p.m. Saturday at Schrader Chapel in Cheyenne with family and friends officiating. Inurnment of cremains will be in Mount Hope Cemetery in Big Horn at a later date. Local arrangements are with Kane Funeral Home. Ms. Kay was born Dec. 23, 1935, in Sheridan to Bert and Dorothy (Sackett) Kay. Survivors include a son, Joseph “Mike” French of Cheyenne; a daughter, Lisa Lofquist of Wittmann, Ariz.; a brother, Wallace of Tacoma, Wash.; a sister, Patricia Smith of Buffalo; and four grandchildren. Memorials may be made to the American Red Cross Tsunami Relief Fund.
January 13, 2005 Edition
Evelyn G. Brown, 84, of Sheridan died Tuesday, Jan. 11, 2005, in Sheridan Memorial Hospital. Visitation is noon-7 p.m. today and 8:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Friday at Champion Ferries Funeral Home. Graveside services will be 2 p.m. Friday in Sheridan Municipal Cemetery with the Rev. Doug Goodwin officiating. A celebration of Mrs. Brown's life will be at 3 p.m. Friday at the Sheridan Palace. Mrs. Brown was born May 18, 1920, in Sioux Falls, S.D. She grew up, attended schools and married Norman Brown there. The couple moved to Venice, Calif., in 1940. Mrs. Brown owned and operated a restaurant in Santa Monica, Calif. The couple returned to Sioux Falls in 1946, and Mrs. Brown managed the restaurant at Augustana College there. The couple moved to Sheridan in 1950, and Mrs. Brown owned and operated the Wally Windsor Restaurant. She later owned and operated restaurants in Nampa, Idaho, and Caldwell, Idaho, while the family lived in those communities. The Browns moved to the Spokane, Wash., area in 1964. They returned to Sheridan in 1970. Mrs. Brown enjoyed crafts, flowers, music, her dog and spending time with her family. Her husband died in 1998. Survivors include a son, Willis, and a daughter, Nancy Reuter, both of Sheridan.
Roland James “Butch” Ericksen, 77, of Comfrey, Minn., died Thursday, Dec. 30, 2004, in the Minneapolis VA Medical Center after a brief illness. He was father of Darla Judes of Sheridan. Funeral services were Jan. 1 at Sturm Funeral Home in Comfrey with burial there in Faith Lutheran Cemetery. Mr. Ericksen was born March 12, 1927, in Evan, Minn., to Jens and Louise (Guhlke) Ericksen. He attended schools in Evan and Sleepy Eve before his family moved to Comfrey. He later joined the U.S. Navy. He married Jeannette LaVoris Quarnstrom on Feb. 21, 1949. He worked at his parents' Coast-to-Coast Store, Quarnstrom & Son International Harvester and drove a bus for the Comfrey public schools. The family moved to Butterfield, Minn., in 1959, and Mr. Ericksen drove a truck for Butterfield Foods and worked for Ekstedt Implement, Echol's Ag Service, Hodgeman Construction and Cunningham Implement. He retired in 1989. He was a 59-year member of the American Legion. He enjoyed hunting, fishing and dancing. Survivors include his wife; two sons, Steve and Dana, both of St. James, Minn.; a second daughter, Dawn Hanson of Eagan, Minn.; three siblings, Gloria Teuful of Storden, Minn., Francis “Ike” of Comfrey, and Marion Pietz of Richland, Wash.; seven grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.
Former Sheridan resident Arlene Kay, 69, died Tuesday, Jan. 11, 2005, in Cheyenne. Arrangements are pending with Kane Funeral Home.
January 12, 2005 Edition
BUFFALO — Marcille Keller, 77, of Buffalo died Monday, Jan. 10, 2005, in Johnson County Health Care Center. Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Saturday in the Adams Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Bob McHenry officiating. Burial will be in Willow Grove Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the Johnson County YMCA in care of the funeral home.
Evelyn Brown, 84, of Sheridan died Tuesday, Jan. 11, 2005, in Sheridan Memorial Hospital. Arrangements are pending with Champion Ferries Funeral Home.
January 11, 2005 Edition
Former Sheridan resident Viola E. “Betsy” Brittain, 90, died Saturday, Jan. 8, 2005, in Pioneer Manor in Gillette. Viewing will be 2-6 p.m. today and 8:30 a.m.-noon Wednesday at Champion Ferries Funeral Home. Funeral services will be 2 p.m. Wednesday at First Congregational Church with the Rev. Bob Miller officiating. Burial will be in the Masonic Section of Sheridan Municipal Cemetery. Mrs. Brittain was born Oct. 6, 1914, in Perkins County, S.D., to Thomas and Polly (McNeil) Lewis. The family moved to Rapid City when she was 10, and she graduated from high school there in 1932. She worked as a billing clerk and secretary for Black Hills Transportation, which later merged with Burlington Transportation Co. She married Armond Jean Brittain on July 11, 1941. They moved to Sheridan and operated the bus depot for Burlington Transportation Co. The couple incorporated airline and tour sales into the business and became Brittain Travel Agency in 1945. They operated the business until selling it in 1982. Mr. Brittain died in 1992. Mrs. Brittain moved to Gillette in 1997 to be near her daughter. She was a member of First Congregational Church, Mayflower Club, Sheridan Women's Club, Eastern Star, Daughters of the Nile and the “Sewing Club,” an informal group of women who remained friends for more than 50 years. Mrs. Brittain also helped establish Sheridan College in the late 1940s/early 1950s. She was a Meals on Wheels volunteer and enjoyed dancing, travel, walking, yard work and being with friends and family. In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by three sisters and one brother. Survivors include a son, Phil of Sisters, Ore.; a daughter, Nancy Sorenson of Spotted Horse; six grandchildren; and 10 great-grandchildren. Memorials may be made to First Congregational Church in Sheridan or Pioneer Manor, 900 W. Eighth St. in Gillette.
Philip Larson, 91, of Sheridan died Saturday, Jan. 8, 2005, at his residence. Cremation has taken place. At Mr. Larson's request, no services are planned. Arrangements are with Kane Funeral Home. Mr. Larson was born Oct. 26, 1913, in Boulder, Colo., to Peter A. and Annamae (Wallace) Larson. After graduating from high school, he entered the military and served until he was honorably discharged. He married Geraldine Miller in 1938. He enjoyed woodcarving. He was preceded in death by his wife, two sisters, a brother and one granddaughter. Survivors include three daughters, Nancy Williams, Phyllis Fleming and Fay Puckett, all of Sheridan; six grandchildren; and 19 great-grandchildren. Memorials may be made to the American Heart Association in care of Sheridan State Bank, 29 N. Gould St., Sheridan, WY 82801.
Norman W. Chamberlain, 88, of Evansville died Monday, Jan. 10, 2005, in Sheridan VA Medical Center. Arrangements are pending with Champion Ferries Funeral Home.
January 10, 2005 Edition
Former Sheridan resident Karen Kay Powers, 56, of Sturgis, S.D., died Friday, Jan. 7, 2005, at her residence after a long illness, according to her family. Cremation has taken place, and a memorial is planned for a later date. Mrs. Powers was born Sept. 25, 1948, in Laramie to David P. And Betty K. Curby. She married Martin Powers of Wyola, Mont. They divorced but were lifelong companions. She enjoyed gardening, her animals, decorating, crafts and motorcycling. She was preceded in death by her parents and a sister, Diane Goodrich of San Diego. Besides Mr. Powers of Sheridan, survivors include four daughters, Corinne Ulmer, Kelle Wolf, Kathy Landers and Vanessa Mudlin, all of South Dakota; two sisters, Penny Scott of Sheridan and Casey Liberty of South Dakota; and eight grandchildren.
Former Sheridan resident Charles Merle “Chuck” Ellis, 63, of Buffalo died suddenly Thursday, Jan. 6, 2005, at his residence. Funeral services will be 2 p.m. today at St. Luke's Episcopal Church in Buffalo with the Rev. George Greer officiating. A private family burial will follow the services. Arrangements are with Adams Funeral Home in Buffalo. Mr. Ellis was born June 9, 1941, in Upton to Merle and Ida Ellis. The family moved to Sheridan, where Mr. Ellis grew up and attended school. He was a 1959 graduate of Sheridan High School. He received a degree in art education from the University of Wyoming. He married Nikki Booras on July 2, 1965, in Sheridan. They moved to Great Falls, Mont., where Mr. Ellis taught art. He also taught art in Wheatland from 1966 until 1968, when the family moved to Buffalo. Mr. Ellis received a master's degree in 1969 from UW and started an art program in Buffalo High School, where he taught until retiring in 1998. He was a member of St. Luke's Episcopal Church. He enjoyed fishing, painting and spending time with his family. Survivors include his wife of Buffalo; his mother of Sheridan; a daughter, Kristin Ellis of Buffalo; two sons, Mark and Matt, both of Buffalo; a sister, Shirley Roberts of Sheridan; a brother, Arthur of Cheyenne; and one granddaughter. Memorials may be made to the Chuck Ellis Art Scholarship Fund or a charity of the donor's choice in care of Adams Funeral Home.
Burton W. Sargent, 82, of Sheridan died Saturday, Jan. 8, 2005, in Sheridan Memorial Hospital. Cremation has taken place. Memorial services will be 10 a.m. Tuesday at Kane Funeral Home with the Rev. Alan Boyles officiating. Inurnment of cremains will be in Arvada Cemetery at a later date. Mr. Sargent was born July 29, 1922, in Craig, Colo., to Forrest E. and Nellie J. (Gatliff) Sargent. He grew up in Arvada and was a lifelong resident there except for 20 years he lived in Douglas County, Ore. He entered the U.S. Army in 1941 and served in the Army and Air Force until 1945, when he was honorably discharged. He married Brooxie Britt on April 4, 1945, in Marysville, Kan. Mr. Sargent built three houses. He enjoyed building, woodworking, gardening, hunting, fishing and spending time with his family. He was preceded in death by his wife and two sisters, Bonita Larke and Verna Sargent. Survivors include his son, Burton William “Bill” of Everett, Wash.; three daughters, Nancy Kosine of Sheridan, Bonnie Ruth Sargent of Casper and Elizabeth Gail Savoy of Houma, La.; a sister, Ruth Imogene Nelson of Florence, Ore.; four grandchildren; and one great-grandson. Memorials may be made to the Sheridan Memorial Hospital Emergency Room Renovation Fund in care of Brenda Torrens or Nicole Christensen, Bank of the West, P.O. Box 9000, Sheridan, WY 82801.
Larry J. Mason, 63, of Sheridan died Wednesday, Jan. 5, 2005, in Sheridan VA Medical Center. Cremation has taken place, and family memorial services were Saturday at Trinity Lutheran Church with the Rev. Wilbur Holz officiating. Arrangements were with Kane Funeral Home. Mr. Mason was born March 3, 1941, in Republic, Wash., to Sidney and Velma (Gent) Mason. He joined the Army in 1960 and served until 1965, when he was honorably discharged. He married Karon Goodell on May 27, 1978, in Kettle Falls, Wash. He enjoyed motorcycles, airplanes, animals, computers and playing and listening to his music collection. Survivors include his wife; two sons, Bud Davis and Cody Mason, both of Sheridan; two daughters, Sherry Mason of Sheridan and Teri Rancourt of Chewelah, Wash.; three grandchildren; and one great-grandchild. Memorials may be made to the Sierra Club in care of Karen Green, First Interstate Bank, P.O. Box 2007, Sheridan, WY 82801.
Former Sheridan resident Viola F. Brittain, 90, died Saturday, Jan. 8, 2005, in Gillette. Funeral services will be 2 p.m. Wednesday at First Congregational Church with the Rev. Bob Miller officiating. Burial will be in the Masonic Section of Sheridan Municipal Cemetery. Arrangements are with Champion Ferries Funeral Home.
Philip Larson, 91, of Sheridan died Saturday, Jan. 8, 2005, at his residence. Arrangements are pending with Kane Funeral Home. Memorials may be made to the American Heart Association in care of Sheridan State Bank, 29 N. Gould St., Sheridan, WY 82801.
January 8, 2005 Edition
Robert Lee Jacob Liebrich Sr.
Robert Lee Jacob Liebrich Sr., 72, of Winner, S.D., died Thursday, Jan. 6, 2005, in the Winner Regional Healthcare Center.He was father of Robert Liebrich of Sheridan. Funeral services will be 1 p.m. Monday at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church with burial in Winner Cemetery. Visitation will be 3-8 p.m. Sunday with a prayer service at 7 p.m. at the church. Arrangements are with Mason Funeral Home. Mr. Liebrich was born June 5, 1932, in White Lake, S.D., to Leonard and Mary (Koch) Liebrich. He graduated from the eighth grade in Sioux Falls, S.D. He served in the Army two years and was discharged in 1954. He settled in Winner, where he married Gloria Carter on Jan. 25, 1958. Mr. Liebrich drove for Redlinger Trucking, Wilson Transfer from 1960-63, American Freight from 1963-82, his own trucking company, L&L Transfer, from 1982-88, and Lewis Truck Lines from 1988-91. He also drove for Bob Curtis Trucking until 2002, when his health gave out. He belonged to the American Legion and the Veterans of Foreign Wars post of Winner. He was a member of the Men's Bowling Association and served as president for many years. He also was president of the Young American Bowling Alliance for many years. He participated in Boy Scouts of America with his sons and enjoyed fishing, hunting, bowling and playing cards with his family. He was preceded in death by a sister, Loretta Noldner, and a brother, Dale. Survivors include three other sons, Leonard and Mark, both of Winner, and Craig of Chamberlain, S.D.; a daughter, Brenda Bender of Winner; a brother, Kenneth of Winner; and 11 grandchildren. Memorials may be made to Winner Regional Hospice Care in care of Winner Regional Hospital.
Larry J. Mason
Larry J. Mason, 63, of Sheridan died Wednesday, Jan. 5, 2005, in Sheridan VA Medical Center. Cremation has taken place. Memorial services will be 4 p.m. today at Trinity Lutheran Church with the Rev. Wilbur Holz officiating. Arrangements are with Kane Funeral Home.
January 7, 2005 Edition
Evelyn Blanch Wood, 95, of Sheridan died Monday, Jan. 3, 2005, in Westview Health Care Center of natural causes. Cremation has taken place. Memorial services will be 1 p.m. Saturday at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints with Bishop Richard Welch officiating. Arrangements are with Kane Funeral Home. Mrs. Wood was born April 15, 1909, in Sheridan to Olaf and Bertha (Miller) Nelson. She grew up on her father's ranch on Beaver Creek. After she graduated from Sheridan High School, she filed for a homestead on Beaver Creek and proved up on it five years later. She was one of Sheridan County's oldest living homesteaders. She married Roy M. Wood on Aug. 23, 1934. They worked for many years on the WS Ranch at Wyarno. They bought land south of Sheridan in 1945 and operated a dairy there until 1960, when they purchased a ranch in Clearmont. They raised Red Angus cattle until 1981, when they retired. Mrs. Wood enjoyed outdoor activities, such as riding and fishing. She trained horses and taught her children horsemanship. In addition to her own children, she raised and cared for many foster children. She was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and a longtime member of the Clearmont Women's Club and Sheridan County CattleWomen. She was active in 4-H. She was preceded in death by her husband in 2000; two sisters, Margaret Morrow and Lillian Parmeter; and a brother, Andrew Nelson. Survivors include a daughter, Ethel Sheets of Sheridan; two sons, Ola Ray of Powell and McKinley D. of Gillette; five foster children, Georgia Rice and Richard Sickler, both of Gillette, Robert Sickler of Texas, Becky Dean of Colorado and Stormy Calentine of Sheridan; 11 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild. Memorials may be made to Child Advocacy of the Big Horns in care of Kane Funeral Home, 689 Meridian St., Sheridan, WY 82801.
Sheridan native Charles M. Ellis, 63, of Buffalo died Thursday, Jan. 6, 2005, in Buffalo. Arrangements are pending with Adams Funeral Home.
January 6, 2005 Edition
Blanch Wood, 95, of Sheridan died Monday, Jan. 3, 2005, in Westview Health Care Center. Cremation has taken place. Memorial services will be 1 p.m. Saturday at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Arrangements are with Kane Funeral Home. Memorials may be made to Child Advocacy of the Big Horns in care of Kane Funeral Home, 688 Meridian St., Sheridan, WY 82801.
Larry J. Mason, 63, of Sheridan died Wednesday, Jan. 5, 2005, in Sheridan VA Medical Center. Arrangements are pending with Kane Funeral Home.
January 5, 2005 Edition
William J. Kirven Jr., 84, of Buffalo died Monday, Jan. 3, 2005, in Amie Holt Care Center. He was father of Thomas Kirven of Sheridan and Brian Kirven of Banner. Mass of Christian Burial will be 10 a.m. Saturday in St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Buffalo with the Rev. George Von Kaenel as celebrant. Rosary will be recited at 7 p.m. Friday at the church. Burial will be in Willow Grove Cemetery with graveside rites. Arrangements are with Adams Funeral Home. Mr. Kirven was born May 10, 1920, in Chicago to William J. and Mary Lalor Kirven Sr. He attended high school in Chicago and graduated from St. Mel's Catholic School in 1938. He attended Northwestern University. He joined the U.S. Navy in 1941 and served in Naval Intelligence until 1945. He married Ellen F. Farrell on May 15, 1943. After leaving the Navy he attended DePaul University and graduated with a law degree in 1947. He moved to Buffalo and worked as an oil and gas land man in northeastern Wyoming and eastern Montana until 1948, when he began a law practice with longtime Buffalo attorney Burt Griggs. Mr. Kirven was the Buffalo city attorney from 1950 to 1954 and 1968 to 1970 and the Johnson County attorney from 1951-58. He was a member of the Rocky Mountain Mineral Law Foundation, past president of the Buffalo Rotary Club and Paul Harris Fellow, past president of the Buffalo Chamber of Commerce, Fourth Degree Knights of Columbus and past captain and original director of the Big Horn Mountain Roundup. He was a member of the Wyoming State Bar and president in 1974-1975, a Fellow of the American Bar Association, Wyoming's delegate to the American Bar Association from 1976-1986, past president of the Western States Bar Association and the Jackrabbit Bar, member of the American College of Trusts and Probate Counsel, a member of the Wyoming Water Development Commission and served on numerous State Bar committees. Mr. Kirven was nominated by his fellow lawyers as one of the best attorneys in America in six categories. Survivors include his wife of Buffalo; five other sons, William J. III of Denver, Dennis, Timothy and Larry, all of Buffalo, and David of San Diego; two daughters, Mary Beth Kirven of Denver and Lisa Lynch of Portland, Ore.; a sister, Evelyn Durkin of Pasadena, Calif.; 17 grandchildren; and two great grandchildren. Memorials may be made to the Amie Holt Care Center Alzheimer Unit in care of Adams Funeral Home.
Katherine “Kay” Rathburn, 83, of Sheridan died Sunday, Jan. 2, 2005, in Westview Health Care Center. Viewing will be until 4 p.m. today at Champion Ferries Funeral Home. Funeral services will be 10 a.m. Thursday at Trinity Lutheran Church with the Revs. Ronald Nelson and Wilbur Holz officiating. Burial will be in Sheridan Elks Cemetery. Mrs. Rathburn was born Aug. 25, 1921, in Lander to Christian and Anna (Kostel) Gosch. The family came to Sheridan by covered wagon when she was a child. As an adult, she moved to Davenport, Iowa, to work. She married William Rathburn Nov. 7, 1941, in Kahoka, Mo. Mr. Rathburn fought in World War II, and Mrs. Rathburn returned to Sheridan. The family made its home in here. Mrs. Rathburn worked at Memorial Hospital, for Dr. Jake Batty and at Sheridan College until 1987, when she retired. She was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church and a Stephens minister. She was a member of the Brundage Addition Homemakers and past president of the American Legion Auxiliary. She was an avid gardener and enjoyed fishing in the mountains with her family. She was preceded in death by a sister, Marjorie, and a granddaughter. Survivors include her husband; three sons, William II of Sheridan, Raymond of Spokane, Wash., and Stephen of Billings; a daughter, Rosanne McGlaughlin of Tipton, Iowa; three brothers, George Gosch of Flagstaff, Ariz., Chris Gosch of Winterhaven, Fla., and William Gosch of Sheridan; two sisters, Bernice Kinter of Sheridan and Maryanne Pitsch of Hardin, Mont.; 11 grandchildren; and 20 great-grandchildren. Memorials may be made to Trinity Lutheran Church at 135 Crescent Drive; the Sheridan Senior Citizens Center, 211 Smith St.; or Lifelink, P.O. Box 2095, Sheridan.
Nancy Eckert, 50, of Sheridan died Wednesday, Dec. 22, 2004, in her residence of natural causes. No services are planned. Arrangements are with Champion Ferries Funeral Home. Mrs. Eckert was born April 8, 1954, in Washington, D.C. She came to the West as a young adult and had lived in Sheridan for many years.
Janurary 4, 2005 Edition
Carl H. Higgins, 84, of Billings died Saturday, Jan. 1, 2005, at his residence. Mr. Higgins worked for the Gandy Co. in Sheridan from 1938, when he graduated from Buffalo High School, until 1942, when he enlisted in the Army. Visitation will be 1-9 p.m. Wednesday and 8 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Thursday at Adams Funeral Home, Buffalo. Funeral services will be 2 p.m. Thursday in the funeral home chapel with the Rev. Danny Francis officiating. Military graveside services will be in Willow Grove Cemetery, Buffalo. Memorials may be made to the Wyoming Diabetes Association or the World War II Memorial Fund in care of Adams Funeral Home, 351 N. Adams, Buffalo, WY 82834.
Blanch Wood, 95, of Sheridan died Monday, Jan. 3, 2005, at Westview Health Care Center. Services are pending with Kane Funeral Home.
Former Sheridan resident Audrey Louise Armstrong, 101, of Buffalo died Sunday, Jan. 2, 2005, in Amie Holt Care Center. Graveside services will be 10 a.m. Friday in Willow Grove Cemetery. Visitation will be 3-9 p.m. Thursday and 8-9:30 a.m. Friday in Adams Funeral Home Chapel. Mrs. Armstrong was born Nov. 1, 1903, in Cambridge City, Ind., to Stanley and Nettie Guyton. She did clerical work for the U.S. government in Chicago and California before retiring in 1968. She lived in Sheridan until 1996, when she moved to Buffalo. She was preceded in death by two brothers and three sisters. Survivors include two sisters, Virginia North of San Diego and Suzanne Knepper of Buffalo.
Katherine “Kay” Rathburn, 83, of Sheridan died Sunday, Jan. 2, 2005, in Westview Health Care Center. Viewing will be 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Wednesday at Champion Ferries Funeral Home. Funeral services will be 10 a.m. Thursday at Trinity Lutheran Church with the Revs. Ronald Nelson and Wilbur Holz officiating. Burial will be in Sheridan Elks Cemetery. Memorials may be made to: Trinity Lutheran Church, 135 Crescent Drive; Sheridan Senior Citizens Center, 211 Smith St.; or Lifelink, P.O. Box 2095, Sheridan.
January 3, 2005 Edition
Harry C. Little, 53, of Sheridan died Wednesday, Dec. 29, 2004, in Sheridan Memorial Hospital. Memorial services will be 10 a.m. Tuesday at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints with Bishop Richard Welch officiating. Burial will be in Oregon Trail Veterans Cemetery in Evansville. Arrangements are with Champion Ferries Funeral Home. Mr. Little was born July 24, 1951, in White Salmon, Wash., to Ben and Joan (Barker) Little. He grew up and graduated from high school in Washington. He enlisted in the Navy and served on the USS Sacramento. He married Laura Keele on Feb. 28, 1979, in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, and they were sealed in the Ogden Temple in 1982. They divorced in 1989. Mr. Little moved to Rock Springs, where he worked on oil rigs. He later moved to California and worked at the sugar plant in Santa Maria for several years. He moved to Sheridan in 1996. He was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, where he performed missionary work. He was preceded in death by his father; a brother, Bobby; and his first wife, Deborah, whom he married in the mid-1970s. Survivors include four sons, Benjamin Keele (Little), Clifford Little, Austin Little and Scott Little, all of Las Vegas; a daughter, Maribah Little of Salt Lake City; and one grandson.
Katherine “Kay” Rathburn, 83, of Sheridan died Sunday, Jan. 2, 2005, in Westview Health Care Center in Sheridan. Arrangements are pending with Champion Ferries Funeral Home.
January 1, 2005
No weekend paper published, See January 3 for continuing obituaries.