Sheridan County's Daily NEWSpaper
Sheridan County's Daily NEWSpaper
Kathy Averill, 56, of Sheridan died Saturday, Sept. 26, 2009, at her home. Memorial services are 2 p.m. Thursday at Bethesda Worship Center with Pastor Scott Lee and Jason Valdez officiating. A reception for family and friends will follow at the church. Arrangements are with Kane Funeral Home. Born Oct. 7, 1952, in Madelia, Minn., to Lloyd and Catherine Guyer, she was preceded in death by her father and three siblings, Larry, Doyle, and Todd Guyer. Survivors include her husband, Barney Averill; her mother; two children, Rex Averill of Gillette and Amber Averill of Colorado Springs, Colo.; five siblings, Sharon Jensen of St. Joseph, Mo., Joanne Siberg of Albany, Ill., Daryl Guyer of Madelia, and Mary Valdez and Mark Guyer of Sheridan; four grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews. Memorials may benefit Child Advocacy Services of the Big Horns, P.O. Box 6022, Sheridan, WY 82801.
Sally Jeanne Willis, 64, of Aladdin, Wyoming, died from a blood clot at Rapid City Regional Hospital on Saturday, Sept. 26, 2009. A Celebration of Life service will take place on October 12th at noon at her home outside of Aladdin. Sally was born December 4, 1944, in Billings, Mont., to Bill and Edythe (Witham) Trott. When she was five, her mother died and her father married Florence McAfee, who later adopted her. Sally married Bob Willis in 1963, and they lived in Thermopolis, Wyo., Billings, Mont., then Turner, Mont., for three years. She had a daughter, Roberta, in 1963 and another daughter, Cynthia, in 1968. In that same year, they moved to Upton, Wyoming, where they lived for 14 years. During her time in Upton, Sally ran a daycare and was instrumental in starting the higher education classes there. She enjoyed gardening, canning, and sewing, and if she found there was something she didn’t know how to do, she would read and study until she could. In 1981, Sally and Bob divorced and she moved to Spearfish, S.D., where she finished her Elementary Education degree. From Spearfish, she started her first teaching job in Sheridan, Wyoming. She worked at many different schools in the Sheridan School District. Wherever they needed her, she went. Working with special education students, Sally had a positive impact on many people. In 1999, Sally was involved in a serious car accident, which forced her into early retirement. At that time, she moved to a beautiful piece of property outside of Aladdin, Wyoming, with her long-time friend, Norman Talsma, where they began building Sally’s dream house. Three states can be seen from her home. She loved working with animals and was in the process of training 4 horses. Two large coonhounds, 4 horses, and llama named Stinky were part of her family out there. Sally spent her free time running, riding bikes, hiking, swimming, or cross-country skiing. Sally never knew a stranger and made many friends doing these activities. She enjoyed spending time with her family and watching her grandchildren. Her positive nature made her a wonderful mother, grandmother, teacher, and friend. She will be missed by an endless number of people whose lives she touched. Sally is survived by her friend Norm Talsma of Aladdin, her daughters, Roberta (Dana) Lyman and Cyndi (Kyle) Colby of Gillette, her sister, Charlotte Trott of Orangeburg, New York, and 6 grandchildren. Her mother, father, and stepmother preceded her in death. In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established in Sally’s name at Sundance State Bank for the Aladdin Homemakers’ Club.
Eileen Catherine “Kathy” Averill, 56, of Sheridan died
Saturday, Sept. 26, 2009, in Sheridan. A memorial service will be 2 p.m.
Thursday at Bethesda Worship Center with the Rev. Scott Lee and Jason Valdez
officiating. A reception for family and friends will follow at the church. In
lieu of flowers, memorials may benefit Children’s Advocacy Center of the
Bighorns, 429 W. Alger Ave., Sheridan WY 82801. Arrangements are with Kane
Funeral Home.
Funeral services for Emerson Wingfield Scott Jr., 77 year old Buffalo, WY resident, who passed away Friday evening at Johnson County Memorial Hospital, will be held Thursday, October 1, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church in Sheridan, Wyoming, with Father John Meyer officiating. Emerson’s optimistic nature had a positive influence on everyone’s life he touched. He was a much loved husband, father and grandfather who was dedicated to his family, friends, and the communities of Dayton, Sheridan and Buffalo, Wyoming. Emerson was born August 13, 1932, to Emerson W. Scott Sr. and Verda Vogel Scott in Omaha, Nebraska. He grew up in Denver and graduated from East High School in Denver, Colorado, in 1950, and from the University of Nebraska in 1954 with a Bachelor of Science in Animal Nutrition. During his undergraduate years he played football, ran track & field and was a member of the Phi Gamma Delta Fraternity. Following graduation Emerson served with the U.S. Occupation Forces in Heidelberg, Germany as a platoon commander with the 529th Military Police Corps. In 1955 he married his college sweetheart, Ann Kokjer of Sidney, Nebraska, in Heidelberg. In 1958 he was hired as the farm manager for the Padlock Ranch in Dayton, Wyoming. Emerson enjoyed working for the Padlock for many years, and during that time he and Ann made many friends; their experiences there were the source of the countless stories he enjoyed telling. In 1967 Emerson and a business partner purchased the Northern Seed Company in Sheridan. In 1968 he moved his family to Buffalo to build a second mill. For the next 14 years they continued to expand their business, adding a malt barley facility in Worland, WY. In 1972 he was named Wyoming Small Business Man of the Year by the U.S. Small Business Administration. That same year he was elected Johnson County Republican Chairman, which gave him the opportunity to establish friendships with people throughout the state, that he maintained to this day. In 1982, Emerson and two partners founded NRS mining, which operated placer gold mines in northwestern Montana. From 1985 through 2007 Emerson and Ann developed a property in Buffalo, that included the Super 8 Motel, Colonel Bozeman’s Steakhouse, Cowboy Carousel and Gift Shop, Cloud Peak Ferris Wheel, Bozeman Trail Ice Cream Parlor, Mini-Golf Course, and The Copper Front. Emerson was an active member of his community. He served as a director of the First National Bank of Buffalo for 30 years and deeply enjoyed the friendships, challenges, and growth of the bank with the community. He was also instrumental in laying the groundwork for both the Johnson County YMCA and City of Buffalo Walking Trails. Emerson enjoyed acting in the Sheridan Civic Theater Guild and the WYO Theatre for many years. He loved playing the villain or the hero. Perhaps his favorite and most memorable role was that of Professor Harold Hill in _The Music Man._ He didn’t require any prompting to break into either “T for Trouble” or “76 Trombones” at the drop of a hat. As a ski-instructor for 20 years he inspired many others to enjoy skiing. His alpine yodel was no stranger to the ski slopes. And a passion for history lead him to serve as a director on the boards of both Fort Phil Kearney and the Jim Gatchell Museum. In his free time he loved bird-watching, gardening, working in his wood shop, upland hunting, fly fishing, and following his beloved Nebraska Cornhusker Football team. Emerson is survived by his wife Ann; son Emerson III (Ceci), daughter Sarah Hooper (Rick), son Putter (Susie); and 5 grandchildren, Nichole and Emerson IV Scott, Brian Hooper; and David and Isabella Scott; as well as his sister Mary Mae Rice (Jim). Donations in Emerson’s memory may be made to Johnson County Memorial Hospital or the Jim Gatchell Museum, in care of Adams Funeral Home, 351 N. Adams Ave., Buffalo, WY, 82834 Immediately following the services a luncheon will be held at the Sheridan Inn, 856 Broadway St., Sheridan, Wyoming.
Former Sheridan resident Myrtle G. Luckett, 88, died Monday, Sept. 21, 2009, at St. Catherine’s Village in Madison, Miss. Mass of Christian Burial was Thursday at St. Richard Catholic Church in Jackson, Miss. Burial was in Canton (Miss.) City Cemetery. Arrangements were with Wright and Ferguson Funeral Home in Jackson. Born in Billings to James H. and Agnes C. Gillis, she graduated from St. Vincent’s Hospital School of Nursing and worked as a nurse in the Schunk Clinic in Sheridan. Mrs. Luckett was a first lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force Nurse Corps and a charter member of St. Richard’s Catholic Church in Jackson, where she volunteered for many years. She was preceded in death by a daughter, Louise Marie Luckett. Survivors include her husband of 58 years, William J.L. Luckett; three children, Mamie Balestra, Rosie Wenstrup, and Bill Luckett; a brother, Neil Gillis; and five grandchildren. In lieu of flowers, memorials may benefit Catholic Charities or St. Dominic’s Health Services Foundation — St. Catherine’s Village, 200 Dominican Drive, Madison, MS 39110.
Peter West Elkington, 86, father of Jane Wohl of Sheridan, died Wednesday, Sept. 23, 2009, in Revelstoke Hospital, Revelstoke, British Columbia. There were no formal services per his request. Cremation arrangements were with Brandon Bowers Funeral Home, Revelstoke. Born July 24, 1923, in Germantown, Pa., to Howard West Elkington and Katherine Wister (Mason) Elkington, he attended Germantown Friends School in his early school years. He attended Eerde International School in Ommen, Holland, for the 1938-39 school year while his parents worked for Quaker organizations in Berlin, then spent one year at Westtown School. He was drafted in 1941. As a conscientious objector, he served in the Civilian Public Service Corps doing a wide variety of projects from planting trees to being a subject in medical experiments. In 1945, he married Harriet Stoll Francke of Hicksville, N.Y. He returned to Haverford College after completing his civilian public service and graduated with a degree in history in 1949. He completed a master’s degree in education from Temple University in the early 1950s and began a long career in teaching. His first marriage ended in divorce, after which he married Mary Ruth (Sharum) Black and moved to the Yukon Territory. He soon became a Canadian citizen, and the couple lived in several different towns in British Columbia, ending up in Revelstoke in 1977. They were active in the community. After retirement from teaching, he started a computer business and began writing. He wrote an occasional column for the Revelstoke newspaper. His books ranged from fiction to biography to philosophy. His wife died in 1996, and he began to travel, spending time in Ireland, England, Hawaii and Mexico and visiting his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was an avid reader who enjoyed imparting a love of reading to his children and grandchildren. A birthright Quaker, he belonged at various times to Doylestown Monthly Meeting in Pennsylvania, Argenta and Vernon Meetings in British Columbia. Survivors include a sister, Theodora Waring of Newton Centre, Mass.; four other daughters, Judith McDowell, Ann Elkington, Carol Elkington and Rachel Oakes; a stepdaughter, Nancy Sanborn; 14 grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren. Memorials may benefit the donor’s choice.
David Ray Bryant, 88, of Gillette died Sunday, Sept. 20, 2009, in Sheridan VA Medical Center. No services are planned. Arrangements are with Kane Funeral Home. Born Sept. 2, 1921, in Rozet to Ray and Haddie (Weaver) Bryant, he graduated from Rozet High School in 1939 and married Sarah Brown Bryant on July 3, 1943, in Missouri. He worked on the family ranch before joining the Army in 1941. He served until 1946, when he was in a truck accident and lost his left knee joint. He was honorary discharged. Mr. Bryant bought a shoe-repair shop in Edgemont, S.D., where he worked for nearly 16 years. He sold the shop and moved to California, where he worked in a machine shop. In retirement the couple traveled from the West to the East coasts and visited Alaska and France, where Mr. Bryant had served in the military. They also spent time in Missouri and Wyoming visiting family and friends and wintered in Texas. A “rock hound,” he also enjoyed fishing and making stones into jewelry. He was a member of the American Legion and Independent Order of Odd Fellows. He was preceded in death by his wife and a brother, James Bryant.
LaDonna J. Day, 78, of Sheridan died Friday, Sept. 25, 2009,
in Sheridan Memorial Hospital. Memorial service will be 2 p.m. Monday at
Champion Ferries Funeral Home with the Rev. Douglas Goodwin officiating.
Inurnment of cremains will be in Sheridan Municipal Cemetery. Born Oct. 1,
1930, in Beulah, N.D., to Arnold and Edna (Enyart) Anderson, she grew up and
attended schools in Beulah and Sheridan. She worked at several jobs including
for Woolworth’s until she married John Day on June 30, 1949, in Billings. They
owned and operated Park Street Grocery. They sold the grocery and Mrs. Day went
to work at Angionette’s until retiring in 1992. She volunteered at nursing
homes and was a member of the Monarch sewing club. She enjoyed playing the
piano, cooking, yearly family gatherings in North Dakota, and writing letters
to family and friends. Survivors include her husband; a son, John of Sheridan;
two daughters, Lois Waldron of East Hampton, Mass., and Laurie Serna of Euless,
Texas; a brother, Allan Anderson of Bismarck, N.D.; two sisters, Merlin Sailer
of Stanton, N.D., and Sandra Wood of Spokane, Wash.; six grandchildren; and
three great-grandchildren. Memorials may benefit Memorial Hospital Foundation,
1401 W. Fifth St., Sheridan.
Former Sheridan resident Dennis E. Hall, 75, of Rapid City died Wednesday, Sept. 23, 2009, at Rapid City Regional Hospice House. Private family services will be later. Mr. Hall operated an antique business in Sheridan and lived here more than 20 years. He was honorably discharged from the U.S. Army. A son, David Hall, preceded him in death. Survivors include three daughters, Sue Vickerman of Rapid City, Debbie Freeland of Littleton, Colo., and Sandy Helt of Avon, Colo.; a son, Roger Hall, of Phoenix; a sister, Mary Jean Olsen of Sun City, Ariz.; eight grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren. Arrangements are with Behrens-Wilson Funeral Home, and condolences may be conveyed at www.behrenswilson.com.
No obituaries reported.
Sheridan resident, Cadyn Lane Trujillo, 4 months old, passed away September 21, 2009 at his home. Born May 13, 2009 in Sheridan, Wyoming to Megan Sue Trujillo and Jeremy Royce Badgett. Cadyn is survived by his mother Megan Trujillo and his father Jeremy Badgett along with Grandma Lori Trujillo of Sheridan, Grandpa Nobert Trujillo of Oregon, Great Grandma Mary Trujillo of Sheridan, Great Grandpa Ed Trujillo of Sheridan, Aunt Melissa Trujillo of Sheridan, Uncle Ryan Trujillo of Billings, Montana and many, many great aunts, uncles and counsins. Cadyn was preceeded in death by his great-great grandparents, great grandmother, great uncles and numerous cousins. Cadyn was loved deeply by all the short time he was with us. He was a precious gift and his memories and spirit will be cherished forever. We will remember his smiles, how he liked playing with his toys and especially how he loved sucking on his blanket and fingers. Funeral service will be held 2 p.m. Friday, September 25, 2009 at Kane Funeral Home with Dr. Mack Bischoff officiating. Interment to follow in Sheridan Municipal Cemetery. Arrangements are entrusted to Kane Funeral Home. Memorials can be made to the family for funeral expenses in care of Kane Funeral Home, 689 Meridian, Sheridan, WY 82801.
Cadyn Lane Trujillo, 4 months old, of Sheridan died Monday, Sept. 21, 2009, in Gillette. Funeral services are 2 p.m. Friday at Kane Funeral Home with Mack Bischoff officiating. Burial will follow at Sheridan Municipal Cemetery. Due to inaccurate information provided to The Sheridan Press, service time was erroneously listed yesterday as 10 a.m. Friday.
Abee, Sgt. John J. passed away Monday, September 21, 2009, in Kalamazoo. John was born February 22, 1956 in Detroit, Michigan to Jerry and Marie (Griffin) Abee. For 20 years he served as an auto mechanic in the U.S. Air Force and Army, serving in Iraq from 2003-2004. He currently was employed as an automotive technician for the Army National Guard in Wyoming, MI. In his leisure time he loved bowling, fishing and dressing up as Santa Claus. John was a wonderful husband, father, papa, son, brother, uncle and teacher, always putting others ahead of himself. On February 25, 1989 in Sheridan, WY he married Billie Weaver, who survives. Also surviving are 5 children, Kristen (Marvin) Kehrwald of Sheridan, WY, Miranda (Johnny) DeLeeuw of Kirksville, MO, Lance Rexroat of Ft. Collins, CO, Carman Merkey of Sheridan, WY and Jillian Abee of Washington, DC; 8 grandchildren; his parents, Jerry and Marie Abee of Greenbush, MI; two brothers, Tom (Mary) Abee of Garden City and Gerald (Karen) Abee of Greenbush; his mother-in-law, Margie Weaver of Sheridan, WY; several nieces and nephews; and his godson, Matthew Abee. Preceding him in death were a daughter, Genevive Abee, his father-in-law, Alvin C. “Jack” Weaver, and a granddaughter, Tia DeLeeuw. In keeping with his wishes cremation has taken place. A memorial service with military honors will be held at the Army National Guard Armory, 1200 44 th St. SW, Wyoming, MI on Sunday, September 27, 2009 at 2 P.M. Contributions in memory of John may be made to the American Cancer Society.
Shawna Martini, 31, Buffalo died Monday, Sept. 21, 2009, at her home. Visitation will be 1-9 p.m. Wednesday at Adams Funeral Home Chapel. Funeral services are 2 p.m. Thursday at New Life Assembly Church in Buffalo with Pastor Alan Schaberg officiating. Burial will follow in Willow Grove Cemetery with graveside services. Memorials may benefit the Shawna Martini Memorial, c/o Adams Funeral Home, 351 N. Adams Ave., Buffalo, WY 82834.
Mary Virginia Wolney, 89, of Sheridan died Friday, Sept. 18, 2009, at Sheridan Manor. Christian wake service will be 7 p.m. today at Kane Funeral Home. Graveside services are 10 a.m. Wednesday in the Elks section at Sheridan Municipal Cemetery. Born Dec. 17, 1919, to Frank and Mary "Soltis" Kawulok at home in Shoestring, a small mining town near Dietz, she grew up on a farm near Monarch and attended Englefield School. When the family moved to Wolf Creek, she worked on the family farm alongside her three brothers and five sisters. She married John Wolney on Oct. 29, 1939, at Monarch. They lived in Monarch until the mine closed, then moved to Ranchester. Mrs. Wolney was a cook for a time at Tongue River Elementary School. She enjoyed time spent with her family, cooking traditional Polish food and gourmet meals, gardening and rock hunting. She was a member of St. Edmund’s Catholic Church in Ranchester. She was preceded in death by her husband; a daughter, Barbara Nelson; two brothers, Jack Kawulok and Frank Kawulok; and two sisters, Rose Bocek and Kay Kukuchka. Survivors include a son, Richard Wolney of Paradox, Colo.; a brother, Ray Kawulok of Ranchester; three sisters, Dorothy Williams and Anne Kettley of Sheridan and Jeannette Bauder of Davenport, Iowa; six grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. Memorials may benefit St. Edmund’s Church, 14 Historic Highway, Ranchester, WY 82839.
Patricia L. Ward, 82, of Sheridan died Friday, Sept. 18, 2009, in Sheridan Manor. Visitation is today until funeral services at 1 p.m. at Kane Funeral Home, the Rev. Stuart Crawshaw officiating. Graveside services will follow at Willow Grove Cemetery in Buffalo. Born Nov. 14, 1926, to Guy and Madge Brown in Casper, she married Wilbur Kenneth Ward on Dec. 26, 1954. He died March 16, 1957. Mrs. Ward worked as an accountant in Cody for Marathon Oil until returning to Sheridan in 1988 to take care of her mother. She enjoyed the outdoors, camping, music, gardening and her dogs. She was preceded in death by a sister, Doris M. Brown,; and two infant brothers, Warren Dale Brown and Vern Lee Brown. In lieu of flowers, memorials may benefit Sheridan Dog & Cat Shelter, 84 East Ridge Road, Sheridan, WY 82801.
Susan Turgeon, 64, of Sheridan died Thursday, Sept. 17, at her residence. Memorial service is 10 a.m. Thursday at Kane Funeral Home with the Revs. Lewis Shephard and Stewart Crawshaw officiating. Born July 1, 1945, in Newbury, Mass., to Charles and Eliner Guilford, she wed Richard Turgeon and worked for many years with Bell Telephone Co. She was a member of Daughters of the Nile and Holy Trinity Church. She enjoyed travel, fishing, picnics and spending time with her friends in Sheridan. Survivors include her husband; a daughter, Kimberly Mctighe; two sons, Christopher Santin and Richard Santin; a brother, Charles Guilford; and four grandchildren. In lieu of flowers, individuals are asked to plant a tree in her memory.
Myrtle Claire, 90, of Sheridan died Friday, Sept. 18, 2009, at Westview Health Care Center. Services are 2 p.m. Oct. 10 at Kane Funeral Home. Born Nov. 11, 1918, in New England, N.D., to Floyd and Maude Parkins, she married Elwin Claire on June 7, 1942. Mrs. Claire enjoyed helping her daughters and grandchildren with projects and making fudge at Christmas for family and friends. She was known as a tireless worker for Eastern Star and her church. She also worked with the Rainbow Girls in Wolf Point, Mont., the Girl Scouts, and taught Sunday school. She volunteered at the Wolf Point Nursing Home fixing hair and visiting residents. She enjoyed travel and always had a new joke to tell. She loved to spend time with her friends, "The Golden Girls." She was preceded in death by her husband; three sisters, Frances Woll, Thelma Steigner and Tootie Trzinka; and two brothers, Bill Parkins and James Parkins. Survivors include two daughters, Pat Cochran of Kimberly, Idaho, and JoEllen Grotte of Sheridan; a sister, Willa Rustin of Dickinson, N.D.; five grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren. Memorials may benefit Shriners Hospital for Children Travel Fund, P.O. Box K, Sheridan, WY 82801.
Cadyn Lane Trujillo, 4 months old of Sheridan, died Monday, Sept. 21, 2009, in Gillette. Funeral services are 10 a.m. Friday at Kane Funeral Home with Mac Bishoff officiating. Burial will follow at Sheridan Municipal Cemetery.
David Ray Bryant, 88, of Sheridan died Sunday, Sept. 20, 2009, at Sheridan VA Medical Center. Arrangements are pending with Kane Funeral Home.
Mitchell Paul Pinder, age 37, Spring Valley, California passed away Sunday September 6, 2009 as a result of a motorcycle accident. Mitch was born August 21, 1972 in Sheridan, Wyoming to Pamela Peterson (Bickel) and the late Michael Paul Pinder, Jr. He attended schools in Sheridan and Buffalo, Wyoming. Upon completing high school, Mitch enlisted in the Navy. He served our country in the Gulf War, Desert Storm and Iraqi Freedom. His 17 year naval career sent him on many travels as well as more worldwide military instillations. Mitch worked numerous jobs including Jon's IGA, Colonel Bozeman's and Hammer's Chevrolet. Motorcycles have always been a part of Mitch's life starting with a Honda 50 at age 6, going to a moped, Yamaha YZ 80 to his faster ride the Aprilia. Spending time in the mountains, hunting with his uncles and fishing with his grandpas were his Wyoming pastimes. Yellowstone Park was his last mountain trip with his brother Jason and their mom. He was a devoted father to his children and enjoyed spending time taking them to lots of fun places. His California interests included riding with his buddies on the canyon roads. Whether it was weekend drills or just hanging out with his Navy comrades, Mitch was always there for anyone who needed his help. These buddies were a part of who Mitch became. Mitchell was proceeded in death by his father Michael Pinder, Jr., and grandfathers Bud Bickel and Michael Pinder, Sr. Mitch is survived by his mother Pam, brother Jason Pinder, sisters Meghan and Hillary Pinder, his wife Sarah of Spring Valley, California. His children Christina and Michael of San Diego and Cory , Sheridan. Grandmothers Marietta Bickel and Frances Pinder. Uncles Randy Bickel and Gerald Pinder, Aunt Lorie Lesch and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews too numerous to mention. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in care of Pam Peterson/Mitch Pinder account at Citco Federal Credit Union. Tenative scholarship fund for Mitch is pending. Memorial Service for Mitch is Sunday, September 27, 4:00pm at Bethesda Worship Center, 1100 Bighorn Avenue Sheridan, Wyoming.
Former Sheridan resident Andrew Keith Goodchild, 53, died Wednesday, Sept. 16, 2009, in Glenrock of natural causes. Funeral liturgy is 10 a.m. Friday at Saint Patrick's Church in Casper with the Rev. August Koeune as celebrant. Interment will be in Sheridan Municipal Cemetery at 2 p.m. Friday. Born March 8, 1956, in Glasgow, Mont., to Mardy A. and Julia M. (Garr) Goodchild, he graduated from Sheridan High School and served in the United States Navy from 1974 to 1978. Upon being honorably discharged from the Navy, he was a master electrician in Casper. Mr. Goodchild owned Electric Avenue Co. from 1993-1995. In 1996 he married Keitha Lamance. They divorced. He was a 28-year member of International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 322 of Casper. His parents preceded him in death. Survivors include two brothers, Bill of Denver and Charles of Santa Barbara, Calif.; a sister, Laura Ward of North Bend, Wash.; a stepson, Chris Campbell of Casper; two grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. Arrangements are with Gorman Funeral Homes Converse Chapel of Douglas and Bustard Funeral Home of Casper.
Mary Virginia Wolney, 89, of Sheridan died Friday, Sept. 18, 2009, at Sheridan Manor. Visitation is 7 p.m. Tuesday at Kane Funeral Home. Graveside services are 10 a.m. Wednesday in the Elks section at Sheridan Municipal Cemetery. Memorials may benefit St. Edmund’s Church, 14 Historic Highway, Ranchester, WY 82839.
Patricia L. Ward, 82, of Sheridan died Friday, Sept. 18, 2009, at Sheridan Manor.
Visitation is 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesday at Kane Funeral Home. Funeral service is 1 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home with the Rev. Stuart Crawshaw officiating. Graveside services will follow at Willow Grove Cemetery in Buffalo with the Rev. Lewis Shepherd officiating.
Memorials may benefit Sheridan Dog and Cat Shelter, 84 East Ridge Road, Sheridan WY 82801.
ROBERT L. (BOB) NOECKER, age 66, resident of Story, Wyoming, and Mesa, Arizona, and former long time resident and businessman of Gillette, Wyoming, passed away Wednesday, September 9, 2009, at his home in Mesa, Arizona, surrounded by his family. Bob was born in Gillette, Wyoming, on October 29, 1942 to LeRoy A. and Myra R. (Probst) Noecker. He was raised in Gillette and graduated from Campbell County High School with the class of 1961. He attended the University of Wyoming and in 1965 graduated from Mortuary College at Dallas, Texas. Bob managed Boley-Dennis Mortuary in Gering, Nebraska, until being drafted into the US Army in 1967. After his tour of duty, he returned to Gillette and went into the family mortuary business, which he purchased in 1975. On June 10, 1972, Bob married Koni M. Mueller of Sheridan, Wyoming. They were married at Jackson Hole, Wyoming. From 1969 to 1995, Bob owned and operated Noecker Funeral Home in Gillette and served as Campbell County Coroner from 1971 until 1994. Bob was involved in several business ventures in Gillette to include being a partner in Cemcon Construction Co.; a silent partner in The Beverage Broker Liquor store; was involved in the storage business; and was a member of the Board of Directors of First Interstate Bank. After his retirement in 1995, Bob and his wife Koni moved to Story, Wyoming, where they spent their summer months and invested in Sheridan County real estate and supported the Story Art Station. During the winter months, Bob and Koni made their home in Mesa, Arizona. Bob was a former member of St. Matthews Catholic Church; he was a member and past president of the Gillette Rotary club and recipient of the Paul Harris Fellow Award; a member and past president of the Wyoming Funeral Directors Association; the Wyoming Board of Coroners, American Legion Post 42; Vietnam Veterans of America; Southwest Street Rods of Phoenix, Karz Club of Sheridan, Wyoming, the Mesa, Az. Elks club and founding Member of the Northeast Wyoming Hospice. Bob’s interests were always in antique, collectible and hot rod cars. He was a founding member of the Thunder Basin Corvette Club in Gillette. He also enjoyed investing in various real estate ventures, in art and antique collectibles, riding his Harley and enjoying time with friends and his family dog, Daisy. Bob was “larger than life” and made friends all over the country. Bob is survived by his wife Koni of Story, Wyoming, and Mesa, Arizona; his Son Todd and his wife Melinda of Las Vegas, Nevada; one sister, Susan (Dick) Downey of Crook Co. Wyoming; two brothers, Jim (Bobbi Jo) of Pine Haven, Wyoming, formerly of Gillette, and Steve (Becky) of Colorado Springs, Colorado, and Story, Wyoming; two Brother in laws; David and Kurt Mueller of Sheridan, Wyoming and one Sister in Law, Kim (Chuck) Wilson of Colorado; four grandchildren, Keenan and Taylor Noecker and Zach and Lauren Seewald of Peoria, Arizona; his uncle, Larry Probst of Greybull, Wyoming; and many nieces and nephews. A celebration of life will be held on Saturday September 26th at 2:00pm at the Lodore Supper Club, 6 N. Piney Rd. in Story, Wyoming. An additional Memorial Service will be held in Mesa, Arizona and those times are pending. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the charity of the donor’s choice in Bob’s name. Please visit www.mem.com to sign our online register memorial.
No obituaries reported.
Former Story resident Nicholas Steven Straatsma, 31, died Saturday, Sept. 12, 2009, in Scottsdale, Ariz. Services are 2 p.m. Sept. 25 at Larkin Sunset Gardens in Sandy, Utah. Born Oct. 9, 1977, in Casper, he attended schools in Evanston and Salt Lake City. He spent most of his career in sales, working locally at Shipton’s Big R, CNZ Wood Pellets and as owner of Hot Shot Power Wash LLC. He enjoyed golf, NASCAR racing, clothing fashion, and spending time with friends and family, particularly his 11-year-old daughter. He was known for his quick wit and ability to make others laugh. Survivors include a daughter, Mallory Nicole of Salt Lake City; his mother, Michele Ross of St. George, Utah; his father, Steven Straatsma of Scottsdale; a brother, Sean Straatsma of Salt Lake City; his maternal grandmother, Patricia Ross of Scottsdale; paternal grandparents Leonard and Ruth Straatsma of Story; and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins and a nephew. Memorials may be sent to Larkin Sunset Gardens, 1950 E. 10600 South, Sandy, UT 84092.
Susan (Guilford) Turgeon, 64, of Sheridan died Thursday, Sept. 17, 2009, at her home. Arrangements are with Kane Funeral Home.
Linda Irene Johnson, 60, of Sheridan, surrounded by friends, family and loved ones, passed away at Sheridan Memorial Hospital on September 15, 2009. A long time resident of Sheridan, Linda was born March 11 th, 1949 in Forrest Lake, Minnesota to Leonard and Irene Schmedeke. She married Albert Johnson in October 1966 and moved to her home, Sheridan, in 1973. In 1979 Linda opened Hair’s the Place Beauty Salon and operated it for 17 successful years. Linda also worked as a CNA for Eventide and Sheridan Memorial Hospital and was a life member of the VFW women’s Auxiliary. Linda loved the mountains and could be found on her 4 wheeler there most of the summer, she also enjoyed cooking for her family and friends and would always say, “if you leave hungry it’s your own damn fault”. In recent years she also enjoyed traveling when she couldn’t be in the mountains taking cruises and spending time with her dad in Arizona. She loved to laugh and entertain friends and family when ever she could. She is survived by her two sons Albert T (Teddy) Johnson and John C Johnson both from Gillette Wyoming, her father Leonard Schmedeke, sister Heidi Hassel and her Grand children Cody, Stormy & Kelsey Johnson and Kierstin Webster. Linda lived life to the fullest and touched the hearts of everyone who knew her. She will be deeply missed. There is nothing better for people than to be happy and to enjoy themselves as long as they can. And people should eat and drink and enjoy the fruits of their labor, for these are the gifts of God. The family will be holding a celebration of life starting at 1:30p.m. Saturday September 19 th , 2009 at the Eagles Post 4169 in Sheridan Industrial park. Memorials for Linda can be made to the Sheridan Dog and Cat Shelter, 84 East Ridge Road, Sheridan, WY 82801.
Pete Vogel , 58, of Aurora, CO and Cheyenne, WY. Died 9/7/09. Cherished husband
of Cindy Muench, #1 Dad to Catherine and Zachary Vogel, caring stepfather to Ben Levin and daughter-in-law Grace Chang. Friend, son, lover, husband, colleague, father, mentor and co-conspirator. A kind heart and generous spirit, funny and smart. Son of the late Albert and Ena Vogel, brother to the late Caroline Kephart. Celebration of Life Picnic Saturday, 9/19/09, 12:00 noon at 501 E. 18 th Street, Cheyenne, WY. Memorial contributions to Yellowstone Park Foundation or Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation.
Linda Irene Johnson, 60, of Sheridan died Tuesday, Sept. 15, 2009, in Sheridan Memorial Hospital. Family members will host a celebration of life at 1:30 p.m. Saturday at Big Horn Mountain Eagles, 1760 Commercial Ave. Memorials may benefit Sheridan Dog and Cat Shelter, 84 East Ridge Road, Sheridan, WY 82801. Arrangements are with Kane Funeral Home.
Former Sheridan resident Mitchell Paul Pinder, 37, died Sunday, Sept. 6, 2009, as a result of a motorcycle accident in San Diego. A memorial service is planned in Sheridan later.
Jack Dean Dewey , 77, a resident of Farmington since 1989 passed away Sunday, September 13, 2009 surrounded by his family. Jack was born June 20, 1932 in Sheridan, Wyoming the son of Clayton Wilson Dewey and Eva Mae (Cook) Dewey. Jack was the third of six children. He was preceded in death by parents and a sister Joan Plumb. Jack is survived by his brothers and sisters Jerry Dewey of Loveland, CO, Judy and Bob Bergh of Lake Benton, MN, Joyce and Kenneth Billings of Marshfield, WS, Jay and Jeannie Dewey of Lakewood, CO; his children Arlene Porr and husband Larry of Albuquerque, Arthur Dewey of Virginia, Cella Dewey of Albuquerque, Karen Halbritter of Las Vegas, NV, Bobbie Lewis and husband Edward of Rio Rancho, NM, Bryon Dewey and wife Isela of El Paso, TX and their mother Wilma Irene Berry; wife, Mildred (Townsend) Dewey of Farmington and her children Cindy Fuller and husband Mike of Aztec, NM, Elinor Brown and husband Bob and Amanda Tafoya and husband Andy all of Farmington; 16 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren and many dear friends. Jack married Mildred Townsend on November 5, 1977 and later their marriage was solemnized in the Manti LDS Temple on June 15, 1978. He was an active and faithful member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints since 1977. Most recently Jack and Mildred were members of the Farmington 1st Ward where he held many positions in the church. Jack loved the outdoors and especially fishing and sailing. He loved working with the scouting program and did this for over 20 years in several capacities from leader to just being with their sons and grandsons. Jack was a veteran and served in the US Army and received the following decorations and medals: Korean Service Medal with 2 bronze stars and the distinguished Unit Citation. Later Jack attended at Wyoming University and received this bachelor’s degree in civil engineering. Jack was employed with US Geological Survey for many years as a hydrologist and retired in 1987. Funeral services for Jack will be Thursday, September 17, 2009 at 10:00 a.m. at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Farmington 1st Ward Chapel, 1310 E. 25th St. in Farmington with Bishop Bruce Goss officiating. Jack will be taken on Friday, September 18, 2009 at 9:30 a.m. for interment at the National Cemetery in Santa Fe with full military honors provided by the US Army. Jack will be greatly missed by all his family and friends. Pallbearers are Andrew Stauffer, Sam Stauffer, Preston Knight, Jeff Duncan, Cooper Dewey, William Lewis and Thomas Halbritter. Honorary pallbearers are Jared Stauffer, Ryan Frost, Edward Lewis. Jr., Michael Fuller, Robert Brown, Andy Tafoya, Jerry Dewey, Jay Dewey, Larry Porr, Arthur Dewey, Edward Lewis, Kenneth Billings, and Robert Bergh. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Boy Scouts of America 5841 Office Blvd NE, Albuquerque, NM 87109-5820 (505) 345-8603. Those who wish to send condolences to the family may do so at: www.danielsfuneral.com. Jack’s services are entrusted to Brewer, Lee and Larkin Funeral Home, 103 East Ute St. in Farmington, (505) 325-8688.
Pete Vogel , 58, of Aurora, CO and Cheyenne, WY. Died 9/7/09. Cherished husband of Cindy Muench, #1 Dad to Catherine and Zachary Vogel, caring stepfather to Ben Levin and daughter- in-law Grace Chang. Friend, son, lover, husband, colleague, father, mentor and co-conspirator. A kind heart and generous spirit, funny and smart. Son of the late Albert and Ena Vogel, brother to the late Caroline Kephart. Celebration of Life Picnic Saturday, 9/19/09, 12:00 noon at 501 E. 18 th Street, Cheyenne, WY. Memorial contributions to Yellowstone Park Foundation or Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation.
Florence Birchby, 85, of Sheridan died Monday, Sept. 14, 2009, in Westview Health Care Center. Cremation has taken place and private family memorial services will be later. Arrangements are with Kane Funeral Home. Born July 16, 1924, in Hingham, Mass., to George and Florence (Manell) Bibby, she married James Cook Birchby in Walloston, Mass., on Aug. 21, 1943. The couple moved to Sheridan that year. Mrs. Birchby helped operate the Western Hotel, owned by her husband. She later worked as an insurance clerk at Sheridan Memorial Hospital. She was a member of Holy Name Catholic Church and enjoyed participating in Girl Scouts and as a Red Cross Gray Lady. She also enjoyed reading and was known as an accomplished artist, knitter and musician. She was preceded in death by her husband and two sisters, Marjorie Ferrigno and Dorothy Cornelius. Survivors include three daughters, Patricia Boles, Nancy Davis, and Virginia Patrick; three sisters, Marian Durling, Constance Rossini and Carol Hasse; two brothers, James Bibby and George Bibby Jr.; six grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren. Memorials may benefit Sheridan County Fulmer Public Library, 335 W. Alger Ave., Sheridan WY 82801.
Sheridan resident Florence Birchby, 85, died Monday, Sept. 14, 2009, at Westview Health Care Center. Cremation has taken place and a private family memorial service is planned.
Arrangements are with Kane Funeral Home.
Shirley Willett, 86, sister of Lorraine Husman of Story and Howard Sorensen of Sheridan, died Wednesday, Sept. 9, 2009, in Omaha, Neb. Services were Saturday in Omaha. Graveside services will be 2 p.m. Thursday in Sheridan Municipal Cemetery with the Rev. Phil Wold of Trinity Lutheran Church officiating. Willett was born in Omaha to Arthur and Edith (Larson) Sorensen. She married Marion C. "Bud" Willett. He died in 1991. Memorials may benefit Habitat For Humanity, 1141 Crook St., Sheridan, WY 82801. Arrangements are with Kane Funeral Home.
Shirley Willett, 86, sister of Lorraine Husman of Story,
died Wednesday, Sept. 9, 2009, in Omaha, Neb.
Larry J. Wilson passed away on May 13, 2009, at the family
home in Tacoma, Washington. Cremation has taken place. Grave-side services will
be held at the Sheridan Elk’s Cemetery on September 19, 2009, at 10:30 am. A
reception will be held at the Sheridan Elks Lodge #520 following the cemetery
service.
John Battista Destefano, 93, of Sheridan, WY, passed away September 6, 2009, at Sheridan Memorial Hospital. John was born November 21, 1915, in Sheridan to Bart and Martha (Randono) Destefano. He graduated from Sheridan High School and worked many years as a banker at First Interstate Bank. As a participant in the D-Day Invasion of Normandy and later in the Pacific Theater, he served his country honorably during World War II. John enjoyed golfing, hunting, playing cards and time spent with family members. John was a member of Holy Name Church and Knights of Columbus. For many years, he served on the Thornrider Foundation and the Griffith Foundation Boards. John was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Battista Destefano and brother-in-law, Walter Salveson. He is survived by his sister, Lucy Salveson, two brothers, Alfred and Arthur Destefano and nieces Nancy (Dennis) Nelson, Mary (Steve) Harker, Sandy Destefano, Stephanie (Marshall) Townsend, Erin (Jake) Lingo, Gillian Destefano, Sophia Destefano, Sue (Don) Beck, Terry (Ed) Henson, and nephews Ron (Cinder) Destefano, Rich Destefano, Darold (Jennifer) Destefano, Jim (Emily) Nelson, Gene Nelson, Brent Destefano, Dominic Destefano, AJ Destefano, Jace Townsend, and Eugene Destefano. Mass of the Christian Burial was Saturday, September 12 at 10:00 a.m. at Holy Name Catholic Church with Father Stolcis officiating. Interment followed at Sheridan Municipal Cemetery. Kane Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements. Memorials may be made the Holy Name School Fund, P.O. Box 6611, Sheridan, WY or to a charity of the donor’s choice.
No obituaries reported.
E.A. “Chic” Dunne, 75, of Sheridan died Tuesday, Sept. 8, 2009, in Sheridan Memorial Hospital. Visitation is 3 to 5 p.m. Sunday at Champion Ferries Funeral Home. Funeral service is 10 a.m. Monday at Trinity Lutheran Church with the Rev. Phil Wold officiating. Interment will be in the Elks Section of Sheridan Municipal Cemetery with graveside services by Sheridan Elks Lodge 520 and military rites by American Legion Post 7 and the Army National Guard. Born July 26, 1934, in Sioux City, Iowa, to George and Muriel (Wright) Dunne, he grew up in Sheridan, attended Holy Name School, and graduated from Sheridan High School in 1952. He joined the Marine Corps and served during the Korean War. Afterward, he was a fireman in California, then moved to Sheridan, where he was a fireman at the VA Medical Center. He married Dee Mathews on Dec. 15, 1955, in Sheridan. In 1970, Mr. Dunne started the WYO Barber Shop, which he owned and operated until his death. He was a member of Sheridan Elks Lodge 520 and the Elks’ D.A.R.E. program, was past exalted ruler of the Elks, and member of American Lodge Post 7, Big Horn Mountain Eagles, the Marine Corps League, and Trinity Lutheran Church. He played the trumpet in numerous bands from his high school years until the present. He also enjoyed camping, fishing, hunting, storytelling, and spending time with his family. He was preceded in death by his wife in 2008 and one brother. He is survived by two sons, Mike Dunne of Silverdale, Wash., and Matt Dunne of Aurora, Colo.; one daughter, Michelle McCune of Sheridan; four brothers, Calvin Dunne of Sheridan, James Gualco of Oregon, Patrick Gualco of Missouri, and Joseph Gualco of Iowa; his mother, Muriel Wilson; 14 grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren. Memorials may benefit the National Cancer Society, Cerebral Palsy Foundation, or Elks Youth Rodeo.
Daniel (Danny) Orr, 62, of Ranchester died Monday, Sept. 7, 2009, at Sheridan Memorial Hospital. Services are 2 p.m. Saturday at Kane Funeral Home with Tony Forman of Cornerstone Church officiating. A celebration of life will follow at the American Legion. Born March 29, 1947, in Deadwood, S.D., to Ross H. "Shorty" and Luella (Frey) Orr, he graduated from high school in 1965 and served in the Navy from 1965 to 1969. He married Linda Lenker on Feb. 11, 1983. Mr. Orr worked 20 years for the Forest Service, then worked at the VA until retiring. He loved to hunt and fish and to hit the casinos in Deadwood. He was past post commander of American Legion Post 7 and a member of Disabled American Veterans and the newer Eagles Lodge. He volunteered more than 1,000 hours at the VA over the last 20 years He is survived by his wife; three sisters, Betty Orr of Buffalo, Chris Smith of Corvallis, Ore., and Louise Gregory of Germany; a brother, Wes Orr of Ennis, Mont.; and numerous nieces and nephews. Memorials may benefit VA Volunteer Services, 1898 Fort Road, Sheridan, WY 82801 or American Legion Baseball, c/o American Legion, 137 N. Brooks St., Sheridan.
(Due to missing information in the paid obituary which ran in the September 9 issue of The Sheridan Press, the following paid version was repeated in the September 10 issue.)
John Egnoce Buszkiewic of Banner, Wyoming passed away on September 7, 2009 peacefully at Sheridan Memorial Hospital of natural causes. John was born to Ignac and Anna (Mates) Buszkiewic on July 8, 1922 in Kooi, Wyoming. He was baptized at St. Thomas Catholic Church in Kleenburn, Wyoming, in 1922. The following information was hand written by John himself reflecting upon his
own life: : (Image of handwritten letter shown on Page 7, The Sheridan Press, September10, 2009) John enjoyed ranching, hunting, fishing, watching bull riding on television and riding his four wheeler. John especially enjoyed his children, grandchildren, great grand children and his friends and neighbors on Upper Prairie Dog Road. John was a World War II veteran. He went into the service in 1942. He was an airline mechanic and was sent to China, India and Burma. The long forgotten dangerous mission, called the “Hump,” was vital to supply the Flying Tigers with their fuel and ammunition.
He was a life long member of the NRA. John is survived by his sons Brett M. (Marcy) Buszkiewic, Banner, Wyoming, James J. (Sue) Buszkiewic, Littleton, Colorado, John P. Buszkiewic, Laramie, Wyoming, Robert A. (Kelly) Buszkiewic, Littleton, Colorado, Sean (Stacie) Moore, Laramie, Wyoming. He is also survived by grandchildren Jeremi (Alisha) Buszkiewic, and Brittany (Ty) Sorenson of
Sheridan, Wyoming, Joe (Amy) Buszkiewic, McKenzie Buszkiewic, Kaitlyn Buszkiewic, Matthew Buszkiewic, and Jay Buszkiewic of Littleton, Colorado, Anna Buszkiewic, Norfolk, Virginia, Hailey
Buszkiewic, Jacob Buszkiewic, Maxx Moore, McCall Moore, Morgan Moore and Preston Buszkiewic of Laramie, Wyoming. He is survived by his great-grand children Blaine Buszkiewic and Paison
Buszkiewic of Sheridan, Wyoming. Also surviving John are niece Linda (Joe) Vanatta of Ash Creek and nephews George (Janet) Buszkiewic, Allan Legerski and Larry (Carie) Legerski of Sheridan, Wyoming. John is preceded in death by his parents, a brother George Buszkiewic and a sister Frances (Buszkiewic) Legerski Visitation will be Thursday, September 10, 2009, from 5 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Kane Funeral Home, with a Vigil Service following at 7:00 p.m. and Funeral Mass will be held on Friday September 11, 2009 at Holy Name Catholic Church at 10:00 a.m. A private family internment will follow at the ranch on Upper Prairie Dog Rd. Memorials may be made to Sheridan County Animal Shelter in care of Security State Bank, attn: Kara Schreibeis, 2070 Coffeen Avenue,
Sheridan, Wyoming, 82801.
Norm Green, 67, of Buffalo died today, Sept. 9, 2009, at Sheridan VA Medical Center. Graveside services will be 10 a.m. Saturday in Willow Grove Cemetery, Buffalo, with Pastor John Constantine officiating. Donations may benefit the Buffalo Senior Center in care of Adams Funeral Home, 351 N. Adams, Buffalo, WY 82834.
John Egnoce Buszkiewic, 87, of Banner died Monday, Sept. 7, 2009, at Sheridan Memorial Hospital of natural causes. Visitation will be 5-7 p.m. Thursday at Kane Funeral Home with a vigil service following at 7 p.m. at the funeral home. Mass will be celebrated 10 a.m. Friday at Holy Name Catholic Church followed by private burial. Born July 8, 1922, in Kooi to Ignac and Anna (Mates) Buszkiewic, he was baptized at St. Thomas Catholic Church in Kleenburn in 1922. He enjoyed ranching, hunting, fishing, watching bull riding on television, riding his four-wheeler, and especially his grandchildren, friends and neighbors on Upper Prairie Dog Road. He was a lifelong member of the National Rifle Association. He was preceded in death by a brother, George Buszkiewic, and a sister, Frances (Buszkiewic) Legerski. Survivors include five sons, Brett M. Buszkiewic of Banner, James J. Buszkiewic and Robert A. Buszkiewic, both of Littleton, Colo., and John P. Buszkiewic and Sean Moore, both of Laramie. Memorials may benefit Sheridan County Animal Shelter in care of Security State Bank, atten: Kara Schreibeis, 2070 Coffeen Ave., Sheridan, WY 82801.
Daniel Orr, 62, of Ranchester died Monday, Sept. 7, 2009, at Sheridan Memorial Hospital. Services are 2 p.m. Saturday at Kane Funeral Home with Tony Forman of Cornerstone Church officiating. Memorials may benefit VA Volunteer Services, 1898 Fort Road, Sheridan, WY 82801 or American Legion Baseball, c/o American Legion, 137 N. Brooks St., Sheridan.
Chic Dunne, 75, of Sheridan died Tuesday, Sept. 8, 2009, in Sheridan Memorial Hospital. Arrangements are pending with Champion Ferries Funeral Home.
John Egnoce Buszkiewic of Banner, Wyoming passed away on September 7, 2009 peacefully at Sheridan Memorial Hospital of natural causes. John was born to Ignac and Anna (Mates) Buszkiewic on July 8, 1922 in Kooi, Wyoming. He was baptized at St. Thomas Catholic Church in Kleenburn, Wyoming, in 1922. The following information was handwritten by John himself reflecting upon his own life: (Image of handwritten letter shown on Page 7, The Sheridan Press, September 9, 2009) John enjoyed Ranching, Hunting, Fishing, Watching Bull Riding on Television and riding his four-wheeler. Dad especially enjoyed his children, grandchildren, great grandchildren and his friends and neighbors on Upper Prairie Dog Road. He was a life long member of the NRA. John is survived by his sons Brett M. (Marcy) Buszkiewic, Banner, Wyoming, James J. (Sue) Buszkiewic, Littleton, Colorado, John P. Buszkiewic, Laramie, Wyoming, Robert A. (Kelly) Buszkiewic, Littleton, Colorado, Sean (Stacie) Moore, Laramie, Wyoming. He is also survived by grandchildren Jeremi (Alisha) Buszkiewic, and Brittany (Ty) Sorenson of Sheridan, Wyoming, Joe (Amy) Buszkiewic, McKenzie Buszkiewic, Kaitlyn Buszkiewic, Mathew Buszkiewic and Jay Buszkiewic of Littleton, Colorado, Anna Buszkiewic, Norfolk, Virginia, Hailey Buszkiewic, Jacob Buszkiewic, Maxx Moore, McCall Moore, Morgan Moore and Preston Buszkiewic of Laramie, Wyoming. He is survived by his great-grandchildren Blaine Buszkiewic and Paison Buszkiewic of Sheridan, Wyoming. Also surviving John are niece Linda (Joe) Vanatta of Ash Creek and nephews George Buszkiewic, Allan Legerski and Larry (Carie) Legerski of Sheridan, Wyoming. John is preceded in death by his parents, a brother George Buszkiewic and a sister Frances (Buszkiewic) Legerski. Visitation will be Thursday, September 10, 2009 from 5 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Kane Funeral Home, with a Vigil Service following at 7:00 p.m. and Funeral Mass will be held on Friday, September 11, 2009 at Holy Name Catholic Church at 10:00 a.m. A private family internment will follow. Memorials may be made to Sheridan County Animal Shelter in care of: Security State Bank attn: Kara Schreibeis, 2070 Coffeen Avenue. Sheridan, Wyoming 82801.
The Rev. Robert J. Palmer, 83, died Wednesday, Sept. 2, 2009, at his home in Estes Park, Colo., following a nine-year battle with prostate cancer. He was former pastor of First Presbyterian Church in Sheridan. Services will be 3 p.m. Sept. 19 at Community Presbyterian Church of the Rockies in Estes Park. His cremains will be buried at a later date in Sheridan Municipal Cemetery. Arrangements are with Allnutt Funeral Service in Estes Park. Born Dec. 6, 1925, in Superior, Wis., he enlisted in the U.S. Naval Reserve in December 1942, was called to active duty in May 1943, and discharged in April 1946. He held degrees from the College of Wooster in chemistry and from McCormick Theological Seminary in ministry. He was ordained in the Presbyterian Church in 1955. He married Bobbe Sue Fletcher in July 1955. In addition to his Sheridan position, he was pastor of First Presbyterian Church in Saratoga and organizing pastor of United Presbyterian Church of Riverton. The Palmers lived here for 17 years and raised their family here. While he was in Sheridan, the new church was built on Colonial Drive. Also while in Sheridan, he became part of the Civic Theatre Guild acting in many plays and musicals and receiving a number of awards. He then served on the staff of the Presbytery of Alaska in Juneau becoming its general presbyter in 1986 and serving the outlying churches and lumber and fishing camps. Following retirement at the end of 1992, he was interim pastor at St. Andrew Presbyterian Church, Billings; interim executive, Presbytery of Yukon, Alaska; interim pastor, First Presbyterian Church of Ellensburg, Wash.; interim pastor, Eagle River Presbyterian Church, Alaska; and interim pastor, Skagway Presbyterian Church, Alaska. He was preceded in death by a brother, Stephen. Survivors include his wife; a brother, David of Sun City Center, Fla.; three sons, Kimball Morgan of Corte Madera, Calif., John Palmer of Lakewood, Colo., and Martin Palmer of Juneau; two daughters, Margaret O’Dell of Casper and Susan Palmer of Estes Park (since deceased); eight grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. Visit www.allnutt.com to view the online obituary and contact the family.
Former Sheridan resident Susan Elizabeth Palmer, 40, died Friday, Sept. 4, 2009, at her home in Estes Park, Colo., following years of ill health. A memorial service will be 3 p.m. Sept. 19 at Community Presbyterian Church of the Rockies in Estes Park. Her cremains will be buried at a later date in Sheridan Municipal Cemetery. Born May 6, 1969, in Lander, she was adopted by the Rev. and Mrs. Robert J. Palmer of Sheridan. She spent her childhood here, then moved in 1982 with the family to Juneau, Alaska, where she attended high school. In 1992 she married Robert Van Cleave of Juneau. She lived in Juneau until 2006, when she joined her parents in Estes Park. Her father preceded her in death. Survivors include her mother, Bobbe of Estes Park; a son, Robert of Juneau; three brothers, John Palmer of Lakewood, Colo., Martin Palmer of Juneau, and Kimball Morgan of Corte Madera, Calif.; and a sister, Margaret O’Dell of Casper. Arrangements are with Allnutt Funeral Service in Estes Park. Visit www.allnutt.com to view the online obituary and contact the family.
John B. Destefano, 93, of Sheridan died Sunday, Sept. 6, 2009, at Sheridan Memorial Hospital. Visitation will be 5 to 7 p.m. Friday at Kane Funeral Home. Vigil services will follow. Mass of the Christian Burial will be 10 a.m. Saturday at Holy Name Catholic Church with the Rev. Stolcis officiating. Interment will follow at Sheridan Municipal Cemetery. Following interment, a reception will take place at Holy Name Church.
William L. Van Winkle, 73, of Sheridan died Friday, Sept. 4, 2009, at Westview Care Center. Cremation has taken place and private services will be later. Arrangements are with Kane Funeral Home.
Graveside services for Raymond McNeel, 77, of Buffalo will be 10 a.m. Saturday in Afton Cemetery with James Ritchey officiating. He died Saturday, Sept. 5, 2009, at Amie Holt Care Center in Buffalo. A visitation will be 3-9 p.m. Friday at Schwab Mortuary in Afton. Donations may benefit Crippled Children of Wyoming in care of Adams Funeral Home, 351 N. Adams, Buffalo, WY 82834.
Former Sheridan resident Jane Jensen, 64, died Friday, Sept. 4, 2009, at Immanuel Medical Center in Omaha, Neb. Graveside services will be 2 p.m. Thursday in Sheridan Municipal Cemetery with the Rev. Don Derryberry of First United Methodist Church officiating. Arrangements are with Kane Funeral Home. Born Nov. 2, 1944, in Rockford, Ill., to Kenneth and Evelyn (Fritz) Brazzell, she loved being with her family and was a Harley riding party gal. Survivors include a sister, Louise McRoberts; two children, Robert Kenneth Jensen and Ginger Marie Jensen; four stepchildren, Keith Allen Biffar, Allen Keith Biffar, Amy Jo Biffar and Kent William Biffar; and six grandchildren. Her memory can be honored by having fun and enjoying every moment, even if that means being a little extravagant. Memorials may benefit Heartland Family Services, Safe Haven Domestic Abuse Services, 2101 S. 42nd St., Omaha, NE 69105. Donations may be made online at www.heartlandfamilyservices.org.
John Busckiewic, 87, of Banner died Monday, Sept. 7, 2009, at Sheridan Memorial Hospital. Arrangements are pending with Kane Funeral Home.
A celebration of the life of Iris Ferren, 86, of Sheridan will be 10 a.m. Thursday at First Christian Church, the Rev. Doug Goodwin officiating. Inurnment immediately follows at Sheridan Municipal Cemetery. A gathering of family and friends will be at the church’s Fellowship Hall. She died July 24, 2009, at Sheridan Manor. Her obituary appeared in the July 29 Sheridan Press. Arrangements are with Kane Funeral Home.
Margaret Mae Cole Nee Richards, 84 of Sheridan, WY died Sunday, August 23, 2009. Margaret was born July 19, 1925 in Mulett, Indiana to Walter and Thelma (Bronson) Richards. Margaret was later joined by Dorothy Johnson (deceased) and Alice Richards Denhardt. Margaret spent her early years and graduated from high school in Mill Creek, Indiana. Her education continued at Indiana University. On December 24, 1944 Gordon Estes Cole and Margaret were united in marriage. Gordon then left for army service in W.W.II. Margaret worked for Kingsbury Ordinance plant during this time. After the war Gordon and Margaret moved to Chicago where Margaret was a homemaker. Richard Douglas Cole was their only son and their greatest joy. Margaret finished her studies at Roosevelt University with a degree in English with honors. She was a member of Delta Zeta Honor Society. She was awarded the designation of _Pearl_ for her years of dedicated membership. In 1984 Gordon retired from American Steel to Terre Haute, Indiana. In Terre Haute Gordon and Margaret were able to be near Margaret_s parents. She was a loving and devoted daughter and was able to care for them until their deaths. Margaret and Gordon enjoyed the love and friendship of her sister Alice and husband Bob and nieces nephews, trips up north to the family cabin, golfing, trips to Gulf Shore and their vegetable garden at the family farm in Terre Haute. Margaret and Gordon spent many vacations and happy days with their grandchildren Janelle Cole, Ashland, WI, Gareth and wife Cora Cole and great- grandchildren Evan and Callie, Silverdale, WA, Stephanie and husband Cody Stanton, Joshua Tree, CA and Diana Cole, Sheridan, WY. Preceding her in death were her parents and husband, and sister Dorothy. The family would like to thank Sheridan Memorial Hospital and Sheridan Manor for their loving care of Margaret. Funeral arrangements will be in Indiana at a later date.
Gary Miller, 54, of Sheridan died Friday, Aug. 28, 2009, at Sheridan Memorial Hospital.
No services are planned. Interment will be at Black Hills National Cemetery in Sturgis, S.D.
Born July 3, 1955, in Portland, Ore., to Raymond and Barbara (Cary) Miller, he served in the Army and enjoyed working at carnivals.
Arrangements are with Kane Funeral Home.
No obituaries reported.
Sheridan native Edwin H. Cook, 81, of Lexington, Neb., died Monday, Aug. 31, 2009, at Plum Creek Care Center in Lexington. Visitation is 4-7 p.m. Thursday at Reynolds-Love Funeral Home in Lexington. Funeral service is 10:30 a.m. Friday at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lexington with Pastor Michael Gruhn officiating. Burial with military honors will be in Greenwood Cemetery at Lexington. Born Nov. 20, 1927, in Sheridan to Henry and Katherine (Pitsch) Cook, he attended school here but dropped out in his senior year to serve in World War II in the United States Navy. After military service, he returned to finish high school, graduating in 1948. He married Maxine Bolinger on Dec. 5, 1948, at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Sheridan. Mr. Cook worked at Sheridan Iron Works and helped with farming operations in Wyoming and Montana. The couple moved in 1954 to California, where he repaired appliances and drove a fuel truck. The family moved to Seward, Neb., where he attended Concordia Teacher’s College from 1958 to 1961, graduating with a bachelor’s degree in education. They moved to Milwaukee, Piedmont, Calif., then to Buffalo, where he taught school. He also worked as a carpenter, sold insurance, and then attended the University of Utah, where he graduated with a master’s degree in education. He attended Concordia Theological Seminary in Springfield, Ill. He served parishes in Wyoming and Nebraska until retiring in 1990, when he moved to Lexington to be near family. He continued to work with several area churches. He enjoyed spending time with his family, woodworking, and took great pride in his yard and flowers. He was preceded in death by a great-grandson. Survivors include his wife; one son, Perry Cook of Lemoore, Calif.; one daughter, Teresa Maxcy of Lexington; a brother, Bill Cook of Watsonville, Calif.; a sister, Lee Bobosky of Sacramento, Calif.; four grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews Memorials may benefit Trinity Lutheran Church in Lexington, “The Lutheran Hour,” or donor’s choice. Online condolences may be left at reynoldslovefuneralhome.com.
James R. Swisher, 61, of Ranchester died Friday, Aug. 28, 2009, at his home. Cremation has taken place and private services are planned later for family and close friends. Arrangements are with Kane Funeral Home. Born Sept. 19, 1947, in Opekeskia, W.Va., to Vernon and Geraldine (Garland) Swisher, he graduated from high school in Butte, Mont., and served in Vietnam. He married Charlotte I. Whelpley in Great Falls, Mont., on Dec. 8, 1971. They later moved to Ranchester, where they resided 32 years. Mr. Swisher enjoyed hunting, fishing and teaching a granddaughter how to bowl and play bluegrass music. Survivors include his wife; a son, Jim Swisher; a daughter, Deborah Johnson; a stepson, Corey Whelpley; three brothers, Vernon, Dave, and Will Swisher; and three granddaughters.
Debra Louise Foster, 57, of Buffalo died Monday, Aug. 31, 2009, at her residence. Services are planned later with arrangements by Adams Funeral Home in Buffalo. Memorials may benefit Child Development Center, c/o Adams Funeral Home, 351 N Adams Ave., Buffalo, WY 82834.
Due to inaccurate information provided by Kane Funeral Home in the program for Robert Ernst’s funeral, yesterday’s Sheridan Press identified Linda McNickle as an organist at Monday’s services. Her name is actually Kathy McNickle and she was playing piano.
Delbert Ventling, 77, of Sheridan died Friday, Aug. 28, 2009, at his residence. Private family services will be in the Big Horn Mountains. Arrangements are with Kane Funeral Home. Born Nov. 17, 1931, in Dayton to Floyd and Laura (Crogan) Ventling, he completed high school and served in the United States Navy during the Korean conflict. He married Laura Mae Smith on Sept. 14, 1960, in Gillette and worked most of his life as a logger and real estate agent. He enjoyed spending time with his family. His hobbies included gold mining, camping, and fishing. Mr. Ventling was a life member of Veterans of Foreign Wars and established the Dayton VFW post in 1968. He belonged to First Congregational Church of Dayton. He was preceded in death by two brothers, Jim and Bud; and a sister, Etta Farnsworth. Survivors include his wife; two daughters, Ivy Davis and Kimberly Gilkey; two sons, Raymond and Patrick Ventling; two sisters, Ester Boyko and Rosie Dorothy; 12 grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren. Memorials may benefit Welch Cancer Center, 1585 W. Fifth St., Sheridan, WY 82801.
James R. Swisher, 61, of Ranchester died Friday, Aug. 28, 2009, at his residence. Cremation has taken place. Private services for family and friends will be later. Arrangements are with Kane Funeral Home.
Howard Hall, 58, of Sheridan died Thursday, Aug. 27, 2009, at his residence. Arrangements are pending with Champion Ferries Funeral Home.
Richard Barbula, 80, of Sheridan died Sunday, Aug. 30, 2009, at his residence. Graveside service are 2 p.m. Wednesday in Sheridan Municipal Cemetery with the Rev. Terral Bearden officiating. Arrangements are with Champion Ferries Funeral Home. Born March 12, 1929, in Monarch to Hank and Alma (Legerski) Barbula, he grew up and attended schools in Sheridan. After serving in the U.S. Army, he worked several jobs including coal mining, construction and in the oil fields. He married Darlene Braden on April 15, 1995, in Colorado Springs, Colo. He was a member of the American Legion and enjoyed camping in the mountains, hunting, fishing and gardening. He was preceded in death by a former wife, Evelyn, and a son, Jimmy. Survivors include his wife; six sons, Mike, Dick, Joe, Carl, David and Robert; seven daughters, Terri, Barbara, Veronica, Diane, Sherry, Evelyn and Ronni; 41 grandchildren; 23 great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. Memorials may benefit the American Cancer Society, 907 N. Poplar St., No. 185, Casper, WY 82601.
Frances Louise Tetreault, 80 of Spearfish, South Dakota passed away August 28th 2009 at the Hospice House in Rapid City, South Dakota, after a courageous battle with cancer. She was born May 15th 1929 to Nadine (Driscoll) Wood and Ben Wood. Frances was raised in Belle Fourche, South Dakota and married the love of her life, Floyd Tetreault June 23rd 1949. Throughout her life Frances pursued her passion for art and travel. She received her Doctorate in Art Education at ASU, and painted throughout her life. Her travels took her to Europe and many other countries, which helped to inspire much of her artwork. Her love of animals and her compassion for the less fortunate guided her quest through life. She did many helpful things for people, not for recognition, but because she felt she could make a difference. Frances is survived by her daughter, Susan Tetreault Paul and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Floyd, sister, Jesse Christianson, brother, Billy Ben Wood, and son Bill. Memorial services will be held Saturday, September 5th 2009 at 10:30 A.M. at Our Saviors Lutheran Church in Spearfish. In lieu of flowers, memorials have been established to the Spearfish Food Pantry, and the Spirit of the Hills Animal Sanctuary. Condolences may be sent to: 106 Clark Lane, Spearfish, SD 57783. Arrangements are under the care of Fidler-Isburg Funeral Chapels and Crematory Service in Spearfish. Online condolences may be written at www.fidler-isburgfuneralchapels.com