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Current Month’s Obituaries

July 3, 2009

Helene A. Waddell

Helene A. Waddell, 95, of Sheridan died Tuesday, June 30, 2009, in Sheridan Manor. Memorial graveside service is 10 a.m. Tuesday, July 7, in the Oblong Square Masonic No. 8 section of the Sheridan Municipal Cemetery with the Rev. Brian Johnson officiating. Arrangements are with Champion Ferries Funeral Home. Born Sept. 24, 1913, in Linwood, Neb., to Robert and Mary (Bobek) Franklin, she grew up in Linwood and graduated from Linwood High School. In 1934 she came to Sheridan, where she received nurse’s training. She married John “Fritz” Waddell in Billings on Feb. 8, 1935. The couple resided in Sheridan. Mrs. Waddell worked at Bentley's Clothing Store for 25 years and was a meals program volunteer at Heritage Towers. She was a member of Naomi Chapter 2 Order of Eastern Star, Social Order of Beauceant, and the American Legion Auxiliary. Mr. Waddell died in 1979. Mrs. Waddell is survived by several nieces and nephews. Memorials may benefit Shrine Hospital for Children, P.O. Box K, Sheridan, WY 82801.

July 2, 2009

Hubert Oscar Minick Jr.

Former Sheridan dentist Hubert Oscar Minick Jr., 86, died Monday, June 29, 2009, in Los Angeles. Services are today at Canoga Park Presbyterian Church in Canoga Park, Calif. Born Dec. 10, 1922, to Sarah and Hubert Minick Sr. in Upton, he grew up in the Sheridan area and graduated from Sheridan High School. He was a graduate of the University of Wyoming and Northwestern University Dental School. A dentist in Sheridan for five years, he left private practice to become chief of Central Dental Laboratories at the VA Medical Center in Los Angeles. He served in the U.S. Army Air Force in 1942 and flew 30 missions in a B-17 bomber in World War II. He was preceded in death by a sister, Eva Jean (Minick) Morganwick, a twin brother, Elliot, and another brother, James. Survivors include his wife, Patricia (MacLeod) Minick of Los Angeles; three children, Jeanne (Minick) Kaufman of Pennsylvania, Marilyn (Minick) Angelo of Los Angeles, and Bill Minick of Los Angeles; one brother, Dr. Richard Minick of New York City; and eight grandchildren.

James L. Robinson

James L. Robinson, 52, of Sheridan died Saturday, June 27, 2009, at Sheridan Memorial Hospital. Cremation has taken place. A memorial service is 11 a.m. Monday at Sheridan VA Medical Center Chapel with Chaplain Arden Haeffner officiating. Arrangements are with Kane Funeral Home. Born May 20, 1957, in Pueblo, Colo., to Dick and Norma Robinson, he moved with his family to Sheridan. He attended Sheridan schools, then the Wyoming Law Enforcement Academy. He worked as a Sheridan County sheriff’s deputy, then as a police officer with Sheridan VAMC and was an information security officer at the time of his death. He married Christie Haworth in Sheridan on June 28, 1982. He enjoyed flying and as a teenager obtained a pilot’s license. He later built and flew remote-control planes. He also enjoyed technology, computers and electronics, his dogs, auctions, hunting, fishing, boating, and camping, especially in the Big Horn Mountains. He was a past member of the Gold Wing Road Riders Association and the Blue Knights Motorcycle Club. He was preceded in death by his father and a sister, Susan Robinson. Survivors include his wife; his mother of Sheridan; and a son, James C. Robinson, of Boulder, Colo. Memorials may benefit Sheridan Dog and Cat Shelter, 84 East Ridge Road, Sheridan, WY 82801.

Elenita Prunty

Elenita Prunty, 90, of Sheridan died Wednesday, July 1, 2009, at Sheridan Memorial Hospital. Cremation has taken place. A memorial service is planned later in Alamosa, Colo. Arrangements are with Kane Funeral Home.

Helene A. Waddell

Helene A. Waddell, 95, of Sheridan died Tuesday, June 30, 2009, in Sheridan Manor. Arrangements are pending with Champion Ferries Funeral Home.

DOROTHY W. BARTHOLME JUNE 29, 1923 - JUNE 25, 2009

Dorothy W. Bartholme, 85, of Sheridan, passed away on June 25, 2009 at Westview Health Care Center. Dorothy was born on June 29, 1923 in Willard, New Mexico to George and Beulah Worley. She was Valedictorian of her senior graduating class of Central Baptist School in Clovis, NM. After high school she worked as a police dispatcher. On March 22, 1947 she wed John Bartholme in Clovis, NM and were blessed with three children. Shortly after their marriage she and John moved to Steamboat Springs, CO, where Dorothy_s _claim to fame_ was driving an 18-wheeler over Rabbit Ears Pass. They eventually made their home in Commerce City, CO where they both worked full time and raised their family. They were founders of the Metropolitan Troupers, a group of young people with an array of talents that brought variety entertainment shows into hospitals, nursing homes, military bases, missions and shelters, and anywhere else their presence was requested, throughout the Denver Metro area. After John passed away on April 19, 1990, Dorothy eventually relocated to Douglas, WY to be near family, and lived there for eight years. In September 2008 she moved to Westview Health Care Center following her family_s move to the Sheridan area, where she resided until the time of her death. She enjoyed watching pro- football, especially the Denver Broncos. Dorothy also enjoyed trips with her family to Blackhawk and Central City, CO to play the nickel slot machines. She loved spending time with her family and enjoyed going shopping and out to lunch with her family and friends and playing cards and dominoes with them. Dorothy never met a stranger, and she will always be remembered for her kind heart, loving ways, cheerful disposition, and positive outlook. Dorothy was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; two brothers and two sisters. She is survived by her daughters, Carolyn J. Bartholme of WY, Janice D. Sullivan of CO, and Lynda Green, and her husband, Jeff, of WY; her four grandchildren, Kara Sullivan of UT, Christopher and Andrea Sullivan, both of CO, and Caleb Green of WY; her great-grandchild, Haylee L. Sullivan of CO; her sister, Lawanda Frakes, and her husband Charles, of Clovis, NM; and numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews. A celebration of life for Dorothy will be held on Saturday, July 25, 2009 from 4:00 pm until 6:00 pm at the Douglas Community Club, 64 Golf Course Rd., Douglas, WY. Interment will be at Dellview Cemetery in Manville, WY at a later date in a private family service. Kane Funeral Home is handling arrangements. Contributions may be made in Dorothy_s memory to UNITY, 1901 NW Blue Parkway, Unity Village, MO 64065-0001.

July 1, 2009

Thomas Norbert Anderson

Thomas Norbert Anderson, 50, of Sheridan died Thursday, June 18, 2009, in Sheridan Memorial Hospital. No services are planned. Arrangements are with Champion Ferries Funeral Home. Born Feb. 28, 1959, in Antigo, Wis., to Norbert and Mary (Zuehlke) Anderson, he grew up in Antigo and graduated from Antigo High School. Mr. Anderson was a driver for United Parcel Service in Sheridan for the past 16 years. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and hiking in the mountains. He was preceded in death by his father and a brother. Survivors include one son, Austin Anderson of Sheridan; three brothers, Robert Anderson of Mattoom, Wis., Andrew Anderson of Billings, and Eric Anderson of Ranchester; and three sisters, Sue Krueger of Rhinelander, Wis., Jo Hoeft of Little Falls, Minn., and Merry Lee Bishop of Banner.

Venida P. Fritz

Memorial services for Venida P. Fritz, 85, of Sheridan are 10 a.m. Friday at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church with a reception to follow at the church parish hall. Mrs. Fritz died Jan. 11 in her home. Her obituary was published in the Jan. 16 Sheridan Press.

June 30, 2009

Lois E. Folkins

Lois E. Folkins, 100, of Sheridan died Tuesday, June 23, 2009, in Sheridan Manor. Funeral service will be 11 a.m. Thursday from Trinity Lutheran Church with the Rev. Philip Wold officiating. Burial will be in Sheridan Municipal Cemetery. Arrangements are with Champion Ferries Funeral Home. Born March 13, 1909, in McClusky, N.D., to Charles and Thea (Olson) Peterson, she grew up on the family farm and graduated from McClusky High School. She graduated from Valley City Teachers College and taught elementary school for several years. She married Harold Folkins on July 2, 1931, in McClusky. They lived in several places in North Dakota until settling in Sheridan in 1962. She worked for Carl's IGA for several years. Mrs. Folkins was a longtime member of Trinity Lutheran Church, where she was active in Circle Two, Service Group and a member of Beauceant. She enjoyed sewing, knitting and crocheting. She was preceded in death by her husband in 1999. Survivors include three sons, Calvin of Story, Carlyle of Sacramento, Calif., and Cleon of Spokane, Wash.; five grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren. Memorials may benefit Trinity Lutheran Church.

Phyllis Yvonne (Phillips) Vanatta

Graveside services for Sheridan native Phyllis Yvonne (Phillips) Vanatta, 73, are 1 p.m. Sunday at Willow Grove Cemetery in Buffalo. Vanatta died Feb. 26 in Tucson, Ariz. Her obituary was published in the March 20 Sheridan Press.

Dorothy W. Bartholme

Dorothy W. Bartholme, 85, of Sheridan died Thursday, June 25, 2009, at Westview Health Care Center. A celebration of her life is 4-6 p.m. July 25 at Douglas Community Club, 64 Golf Course Road. Private service and burial will be later in Dellview Cemetery in Manville. Arrangements are with Kane Funeral Home.
Memorials may benefit UNITY, 1901 N.W. Blue Parkway, Unity Village, MO 64065-0001.

Elaine L. Wondra

Elaine L. Wondra, 80, of Sheridan died Monday, June 29, 2009, at Sheridan Manor. Graveside memorial services will be 2 p.m. July 31 in Sheridan Elks Cemetery with the Rev. Ron Stolcis officiating. Arrangements are with Kane Funeral Home.

James L. Robinson

James L. Robinson, 52, of Sheridan died Saturday, June 27, 2009, at Sheridan Memorial Hospital. Cremation has taken place and services are pending with arrangements by Kane Funeral Home. Memorials may benefit Sheridan Dog & Cat Shelter, 84 East Ridge Road, Sheridan, WY 82801.

Leslie Sobotka Sr.

Former Sheridan resident Leslie Sobotka Sr., 66, of Levittown, Pa., died Thursday, June 4, 2009, at St. Mary Hospital in Langhorne, Pa. Services were in Levittown. Born Aug. 28, 1942, in Chicago, he grew up in Sheridan, attended local schools and worked at the Padlock Ranch. He joined the U.S. Army at age 17 and was stationed at Fort Dix., N.J. He moved to Pennsylvania in 1960 and married Betty O’Neill. He worked at Conrail Freight Railroad until retirement in 2006.
Survivors include his wife; five siblings, Darlene Roswadovski and Barbara Bettcher of Sheridan, Marlene LaToush of Parkman, Jim Sobotka of Gillette and Shirley Spoden of Denver; a son, Leslie Jr.; two daughters, Catherine Hitchcock and Jodi Sobotka; and four grandchildren.

June 29, 2009

Shirley Ramsey

Shirley Ramsey, 59, of Buffalo died Saturday, June 27, 2009, at Johnson County Health Care Center. Visitation is 1-9 p.m. Wednesday and 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Thursday followed by funeral service at 2 p.m. at Adams Funeral Home Chapel in Buffalo. Private burial will be later. Memorials may benefit American Diabetes Foundation c/o Adams Funeral Home, 351 N. Adams Ave., Buffalo WY 82834.

Kathryn ‘Kay’ Hart Ingersoll

Kathryn “Kay” Hart Ingersoll, 67, of Sheridan died Thursday, June 25, 2009, in Sheridan. Cremation has taken place. Arrangements are with Bullis Funeral Home in Hardin, Mont. Services are 11 a.m. Wednesday at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church with the Rev. Kevin Jones officiating. A potluck luncheon will follow at the church.

Cecil W. ‘Pee Wee’ Parsons

Cecil W. “Pee Wee” Parsons, 96, of Sheridan died Saturday, June 20, 2009, at Sheridan VA Medical Center. Memorial services are 10 a.m. Thursday at Champion Ferries Funeral Home with the Rev. Bob Miller officiating. Burial of cremains will be in Sheridan Municipal Cemetery with military rites by American Legion Post 7 and the Wyoming National Guard. Born Feb. 28, 1913, in Hobson, Mont., to Roy E. and Mattie D. (Bennett) Parsons, he attended schools in Hobson and Columbus, Mont. The family moved to Torrington, where he graduated from Torrington High School. Mr. Parsons was in the U. S. Army during World War II and saw combat in Germany while serving in the artillery and engineers. He married Nelda Mitchell in Sheridan in 1935. They were divorced. He married Eva Drobish in Sheridan, who preceded him in death. He married Rose M. Badgett in Sheridan in 1987. She preceded died in 2008. Mr. Parsons worked in the Civilian Conservation Corps helping build the Dayton-Kane Road over the Big Horn Mountains. He ranched in Idaho and Montana, was a steel worker in Seattle, spent time in Greenland reclaiming an air base, and worked at Sheridan VA Medical Center, where he retired. He enjoyed playing the trumpet, fishing, hunting, dancing, photography and home movies. In addition to his two wives, he was preceded in death by one daughter and one great-grandson. Survivors include one son, Robert L. Parsons of Libby, Mont.; one daughter, Carole A. Wright of Troy, Mont.; one sister, Daisy M. Bush of Jackson Hole; five grandchildren; and 15 great-grandchildren.

June 27, 2009

No obituaries reported.

June 26, 2009

Lois E. Folkins

Lois E. Folkins, 100, of Sheridan died Tuesday, June 23, 2009, in Sheridan Manor. Funeral services are 11 a.m. Thursday at Trinity Lutheran Church with the Rev. Philip Wold officiating. Interment will be in Sheridan Municipal Cemetery. Memorials may benefit Trinity Lutheran Church. Arrangements are with Champion Ferries Funeral Home.

June 25, 2009

Henry Lincoln Arnoux

Henry Lincoln Arnoux, 90, of Sheridan died Sunday, June 21, 2009, at Sheridan Manor. Services are 10 a.m. Saturday at Champion Ferries Funeral Home with the Rev. Charles Gifford officiating. Interment will be at Mount Hope Cemetery in Big Horn. Born Feb. 13, 1919, in Browning, Mont., to Monroe and Maggie Arnoux, he was a member of the Blackfeet Nation and the great-grandson of Blood Chief Red Crow. He married Opal A. Park on April 4, 1946. They moved to Elk City, Okla., then to Rawlins, where both worked at Carbon County Memorial Hospital. In 1952, the couple moved to Big Horn. Mr. Arnoux was an X-ray technician at Sheridan Memorial Hospital for 20 years and proprietor of the White Swan Barber Shop on Main Street. He was a member of the Masonic Lodge, Shrine and Elks Lodge 520. He was past member of the Big Horn Lions Club, Big Horn School Board, and Sheridan County Red Cross. He was a first aid trainer, an Emergency Medical Tech I with Sheridan County Emergency Management, and formed the first radiological society in Wyoming. The Arnouxs developed a mobile X-ray unit and traveled in Montana during the 1940s serving communities, reservations and prisons. Known as “the Chief,” he provided haircuts for patients at nursing homes and hospitals. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, painting, rock collecting, and reading. He played the tenor saxophone, clarinet, trumpet, guitar, piano and banjo and was a member of the Rhythm Chiefs big band in the late 1930s, traveling to Montana, Wyoming, Oregon and Washington. Survivors include his wife; two sons, Jim of Portland, Ore., and John of Oklahoma; a daughter, Judy of Sheridan; six grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren. Memorials may benefit Sheridan Senior Center, 211 Smith St., Sheridan WY 82801.

June 24, 2009

Betty June Lanning

Betty June Lanning, 79, of Buffalo died Tuesday, June 23, 2009, at Amie Holt Care Center in Buffalo. Visitation is 1-9 p.m. Friday and 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday followed by funeral service at 2 p.m. at Adams Funeral Home Chapel in Buffalo with Pastor Joe Jarvis officiating. Burial will be in Willow Grove Cemetery with graveside services. Memorials may benefit Community Resource Center or Life Line c/o Adams Funeral Home, 351 N. Adams Ave., Buffalo, WY 82834.

Florence E. Taylor

Florence E. Taylor, 86, of Sheridan died Sunday, June 21, 2009, at Sheridan Manor. Viewing is 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. today and Thursday at Kane Funeral Home. Funeral services are planned later in Stockton, Calif., with burial in Stockton Rural Cemetery. Born May 19, 1923, in San Jose, Calif., to John and Leah Ann Black, she married Marvin E. Taylor Sr. on Dec. 27, 1958. She enjoyed crocheting, cats, dolls and playing bingo at the Senior Center in Stockton. She resided more than 70 years in Stockton before moving to Sheridan. She was preceded in death by her husband. Survivors include a daughter, Linda Laird of Sheridan; three stepsons, Marvin Taylor Jr. of Modesto, Calif., Leroy Taylor of Lodi, Calif., and Michael Taylor; two grandchildren; four step-grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; three nieces; and three nephews.

Thelma O. Bent

Thelma O. Bent, 81, of Sheridan died Monday, June 22, 2009, in Sheridan Memorial Hospital. Funeral service is 10 a.m. Friday at St. Peter's Episcopal Church with the Rev. Kevin Jones officiating. Burial will be in the Elks section of Sheridan Municipal Cemetery. Arrangements are with Champion Ferries Funeral Home. Mrs. Bent was born March 31, 1928, in Missouri. Adopted at age 5 by E M. and Ida May (Stanley) Oliver, she grew up and attended schools in Cheyenne, then attended the University of Wyoming for three years. During college, she worked for the Department of Health and United Airlines in Cheyenne. She married Roger S. Bent on June 13, 1950, in Fort Collins, Colo. Mrs. Bent was a homemaker and also worked for Sheridan School District 2 as a librarian and a teacher's aide at Coffeen Elementary School. She was president of the Sheridan Junior Women's Club from 1960 to 1961, member of the Philanthropic Educational Organization for 62 years, a Girl Scout leader in the 1960s, and a longtime member of the Story Garden Club. She enjoyed playing bridge, crafts and spending time with her family. Survivors include her husband; a son, Roger M. Bent of Sheridan; two daughters, Mary Carroll and Carol Doughty, both of Sheridan; and one granddaughter. Memorials may benefit Story Branch Library.

June 23, 2009

June 22, 2009

Mary Ann Donahoo

Mary Ann Donahoo, 64, formerly of Sheridan, died Wednesday, June 17, 2009, at Advance Care Hospital of Montana in Billings of lung disease, according to family.
Funeral services were this morning at High Plains Community Church in Gillette with Pastor Dan Morgan officiating. Born March 12, 1945, in Shoshoni to Edward and Dolly (Meeks) Apland, she attended rural school in Lysite and married Paul Donahoo on Aug. 29, 1959, in Thermopolis. The couple resided in Lander and Cody before moving to Sheridan, where they lived for 25 years. In 1997, they moved to Gillette. A caregiver, Mrs. Donahoo also played bass guitar and helped form The Westerners band. She enjoyed babies, her dogs, camping, fishing and horses and was a member of the Moose Lodge. She was preceded in death by two brothers, Edward and Eldred, and two sisters, Donna Gureski and Veree Bloomquist. Survivors include her husband of Gillette; six children, Paul Donahoo of Missouri, Brion Donahoo and Jerry Donahoo, all of Gillette, Shirley Luedtke of Omaha, Neb., Connie Holwell of Castle Rock, Colo., and Cindy Redenbaugh of Sheridan; a sister, Margaret Ramage of Lysite; 15 grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. Memorials and condolences may be sent c/o Gillette Memorial Chapel, 210 W. Fifth St., Gillette, WY 82716 or via the Internet at www.gillettememorialchapel.com.

Marjorie Pate

Marjorie Pate, 96, Buffalo, died Friday, June 19, 2009, at Amie Holt Care Center. Funeral services are 2 p.m. Thursday at Adams Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Connie Cranston officiating. Burial is private. Donations may benefit Grey Ladies or United Methodist Church in care of Adams Funeral Home, 351 N. Adams Ave., Buffalo, WY 82834.

Henry Arnoux

Henry Arnoux, 90, of Sheridan died Sunday, June 21, 2009, in Sheridan Manor. Arrangements are pending with Champion Ferries Funeral Home.

Thelma O. Bent

Thelma O. Bent, 81, of Sheridan died today, June 22, 2009, in Sheridan Memorial Hospital. Arrangements are pending with Champion Ferries Funeral Home.

Cecil W. ‘Pee Wee’ Parsons

Cecil W. “Pee Wee” Parsons died Saturday, June 20, 2009, in Sheridan VA Medical Center. Arrangements are pending with Champion Ferries Funeral Home.

June 20, 2009

Dr. Paul Pettit

Dr. Paul Pettit, 78, formerly of Sheridan, died Sunday, June 14, 2009, in Coronado, Calif. Born in Sept. 21, 1930, in Everett, Wash., to Harry and Edna Pettit, he was in the Army medical company serving from 1956 until his honorable discharge in 1962. He married Rosemary Bumbaca on Jan. 20, 1951, in Omaha, Neb., In 1991 and 2002, he was named Yatch’s Man of the Year in San Diego. He was also Boy Scout of the Year and an Eagle Scout. Dr. Pettit was a family practice and urgent care/emergency physician and at one time worked with alcoholic Indians in Wyoming. He also worked for Southern Pacific Railroad Co. He was a member of the National Rifle Association and enjoyed fishing, hunting, and log racing. In 2002 he won the North American Invitational Predicted Log Race; he also won two previous NAI races as well as the San Diego Cruiser Association Predicted Log Race for 14 years. Survivors include his wife of Coronado; three children, Susan Pettit of Coronado, Paul D. Pettit, M.D., of Jacksonville, Fla., and Rosemary Tres of Glendale, Ariz.; 10 grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren. Services are private with arrangements by Kane Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, memorials benefit American Cancer Society Research, 907 N. Poplar Ave., Suite 185, Casper, WY 82601.

Thomas Anderson

Thomas Anderson, 50, Sheridan, died Thursday, June 18, 2009, in Sheridan Memorial Hospital. Arrangements are pending with Champion Ferries Funeral Home.

Catherine C. Brownell Porter

Catherine C. Brownell Porter, 85, Sheridan, died Friday, June 19, 2009, at Westview Health Care Center. Funeral liturgy will be 10 a.m. Tuesday at Holy Name Catholic Church, the Rev. Ronald Stolcis officiating, with burial in Sheridan Municipal Cemetery. Born July 23, 1923, in Lincoln, Kan., to Charles and Ella (Linker) Chase, she graduated from Manual Art High School in Los Angeles and worked for Bank of America. She married Lenard M. Brownell on Dec. 19, 1944. They came to Sheridan in 1945 after Mr. Brownell was discharged from the Army Air Force. She worked for Forrest Ralston as secretary and office manager until 1965. They then moved to New Hampshire for six years before returning here and making their home in Wyarno. Her husband died in 1982. She married William Porter Sr. on Feb. 19, 1983, in Del Mar, Calif., and they resided in Sheridan. Mrs. Porter belonged to The Book Review Club, Memorial Hospital Auxiliary, and Holy Name Catholic Church. In addition to her first husband, she was preceded in death by a brother, Dr. Charles Chase, and a sister, Peggy Ann Doran. Survivors include her husband; a son, Robert Brownell of Wyarno; two stepsons, William Porter II of Sheridan and Richard Porter of Denver; a sister, Carol Gstettenbaur of Ventura, Calif.; two grandchildren; a step-grandson; and two great-grandchildren. Memorials may benefit Holy Name School, 9 S. Connor St., Sheridan or Whedon Cancer Foundation, 30 S. Scott St., Sheridan. Arrangements are with Champion Ferries Funeral Home.

Dickey Houston

Dickey Houston, 71, of Buffalo died Wednesday, June 17, 2009, at Amie Holt Care Center in Buffalo. Visitation is 1-9 p.m. Sunday at Adams Funeral Home Chapel in Buffalo. Services are 10 a.m. Monday at the funeral home with Pastor Bob McHenry officiating. Burial will be in Willow Grove Cemetery in Buffalo.  Memorials may benefit Amie Holt Care Center, c/o Adams Funeral Home, 351 N. Adams Ave., Buffalo, WY 82834

Harold Eugene Kamping

Harold Eugene Kamping, 86, of Rochester, Wash., stepfather of James Trott and Donna Kinskey, both of Sheridan, died Monday, June 15, 2009, after a brief illness, according to family. Cremation has taken place with burial at sea. A memorial service is Monday in Rochester. Mr. Kamping was born March 9, 1923, in Elsmore, Kan., to Ella and Rudolph Kamping. He married Lois Ladd in 1947. She died in 1989. He married Gladys Trott on June 12, 1991. Mr. Kamping had a 32-year career in the U.S. Navy. He served in World War II, the Korean War and Vietnam War. He received numerous military decorations and high honors throughout his service. He retired from the military as air controlman senior chief on July 24, 1972. He spent the next 30 years farming, gardening, and on other outdoor activities. He enjoyed working with his hands and was known as “The Toymaker,” crafting wooden toys, cars, trains, and rocking horses, which were donated to children in hospitals and in need. In addition to his first wife, he was preceded in death by a daughter, Florence, in 1997. In addition to his two stepchildren, survivors include his wife; one sister, Jo Anne Fuller of Cottage Grove, Ore.; a third stepchild, Diana Yata of Oceanside, Calif.; 13 grandchildren; and numerous great-grandchildren.

June 19, 2009

June 18, 2009

Linda Anderson

Linda Anderson, 56, of Buffalo died Tuesday, June 16, 2009, at Wyoming Medical Center in Casper. Visitation is 1-9 p.m. Friday and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday at Adams Funeral Home Chapel in Buffalo. Graveside services are 2 p.m. Saturday at Willow Grove Cemetery in Buffalo with Pastor Bob McHenry officiating. Memorials may benefit the St. Francis Animal Shelter, c/o Adams Funeral Home, 351 N. Adams Ave., Buffalo, WY 82834, which is handling arrangements.

Florence E. Paulsen

Florence E. Paulsen, 92, of Sheridan died Wednesday, June 17, 2009, in Sheridan Memorial Hospital. Services are pending with Kane Funeral Home.

KENNETH A. KANE DECEMBER 5, 1933 - MARCH 7, 2009

Kenneth A. Kane, 75, of Sheridan, passed away on Saturday, March 7, 2009 in Phoenix, AZ. Ken was born in Sheridan on December 5, 1933 to Charles and Lily Kane. He was raised and worked on the Kane Ranch and later ranched on his own in Montana. He enjoyed competing in rodeos and ropings where he was successful. Ken also had a keen eye for good horses and cattle and raised many quality race horses. He was a member of the Catholic Church, a Gold Card Member of the PRCA, a life member of the Elks, a member of the American Legion, and the Arizona Thoroughbred Breeders Association. Ken was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his bestfriend and companion of thirty-three years, Gloria James. He is also survived by his daughters, Janet Hahn and husband Allan, of Lakeview, OR and Jody Kane of Natchitoches, LA; and special nephew, Phil Kane and wife Ranelle, of Wolf, WY. Other survivors include two sisters, Genevieve Hendrickson and husband Don, of Sheridan and Karolyn Gainan and husband Chuck, of Billings, MT; a brother, Charles Kane and wife Arlene, of Sheridan; one special granddaughter who enjoyed visiting with about the weather and other important things, Allison Kane Hahn; and numerous nieces and nephews. Per Ken’s request cremation has taken place and a memorial mass will be held at Kane Funeral Home on Saturday, June 20, 2009 at 1:00 p.m. with The Reverend Ron Stolcis officiating. A celebration his life will follow the service. Kane Funeral Home is handling arrangements. In lieu of flowers the family has requested that memorials be made in Ken’s name to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, PO Box 50, Memphis, TN 58101 or to Hospice of the Valley, 15100 W. Flower St., Phoenix, AZ 85014-5656 or to a charity of donors choice.

June 17, 2009

Ana Olson

Ana Olson, 18, of Parkman died Friday, June 12, 2009, from complications after heart surgery, according to family. A celebration of her life is 10 a.m. Thursday at Cornerstone Church. Arrangements are with Kane Funeral Home. Born Ana Ivanovna Kusmina in Perm, Russia, on Nov. 8, 1990, she was adopted by the Terry and Remelle Olson family May 23, 2000. She was a Girl Scout and active in 4-H. She was known as an excellent student and was looking forward to her senior year at Tongue River High School. She enjoyed the outdoors, volleyball, horses, her dogs, cat, and 4-H pigs, and time spent with family and friends. Survivors include her parents; a brother, Deni; six grandparents; and numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins. Memorials may benefit the Dog and Cat Shelter.

David John Taberna

David John Taberna, 54, of Sheridan died Friday, June 12, 2009, at his residence. Memorial services will be later with arrangements by Champion Ferries Funeral Home.
Born Oct. 3, 1954, in Denver to Louis and Dorothy Taberna, he moved with his family to Missoula, Mont., in 1965. He attended Hellgate High School until joining the United States Navy in 1972. He was honorably discharged in 1975. He attended Northern Montana College in Havre and received his Airframe and Powerplant mechanics certification from Cheyenne Aerotech. He worked as custodial supervisor of the University of Montana’s University Center for 10 years. He moved to Sheridan in 2007. Known for a quick wit and infectious laugh, he enjoyed time spent with family and friends. Survivors include his father of Sheridan; his mother of Missoula; a sister, Debra of Sparks, Nev.; two brothers, Chris and Tom of Missoula; two sons, Jim and Tyler of Culbertson, Mont.; a daughter, Jamie of Cheyenne; and numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins.

Dr. Paul Petit

Former Sheridan resident Dr. Paul Petit, 78, died Sunday, June 14, 2009, in San Diego. Private services are planned. Arrangements are with Kane Funeral Home.

June 16, 2009

Genevieve L. Cowan

Genevieve L. Cowan, 74, of Sheridan died Thursday, June 11, 2009, at her residence. A private celebration of life with family and friends is today at the family home. Arrangements are with Kane Funeral Home. Born May 2, 1935, in Heppner, Ore., to Elbert L. Cox and Oma J. Bennett, she completed high school and worked many years as a certified nursing assistant. She married Ronald J. Cowan in Reno, Nev. She enjoyed the outdoors, fishing, camping, travel, gardening, reading and time spent with friends and family. Survivors include her husband; four children; 11 grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren. Memorials may benefit Sheridan Dog and Cat Shelter, 84 East Ridge Road, Sheridan WY 82801.

Kenneth A. Kane

Memorial Mass for Kenneth A. Kane, 75, of Wolf is 1 p.m. Saturday at Holy Name Catholic Church. A celebration of life will follow at the church. Mr. Kane died Saturday, March 7, 2009, in Phoenix. Cremation has taken place. Arrangements are with Kane Funeral Home. Born Dec. 5, 1933, in Sheridan to Charles and Lily Kane, he grew up and worked on the Kane Ranch and later ranched on his own in Montana. He enjoyed competing in rodeos and ropings. It was said he had a keen eye for good horses and cattle and raised many quality race horses. Mr. Kane was a member of the Catholic Church, a Gold Card Member of the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association, a life member of the Elks, and a member of the American Legion and the Arizona Thoroughbred Breeders Association. Survivors include two daughters, Janet Hahn of Lakeview, Ore., and Jody Kane of Natchitoches, La.; two sisters, Genevieve Hendrickson of Sheridan and Karolyn Gainan of Billings; a brother, Charles Kane of Sheridan; a granddaughter; and numerous nieces and nephews. In lieu of flowers, memorials may benefit St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, P.O. Box 50, Memphis, TN 58101 or Hospice of the Valley, 15100 W. Flower St., Phoenix, AZ 85014-5656 or a charity of the donor’s choice.

Morris ‘Red’ Opsahl

Graveside services for Morris “Red” Opsahl, 89, of Dayton are 1 p.m. Saturday at Dayton Cemetery.
Mr. Opsahl died Dec. 2 at Sheridan VA Medical Center. His obituary appeared in the Dec. 9 Sheridan Press.

Beatrice Gallatin Beuf

Memorial services for Beatrice Gallatin Beuf, 102, of Big Horn are 10 a.m. Saturday at St. Peter's Episcopal Church in Sheridan. A reception will follow at the church. Mrs. Beuf died April 21. Her obituary appeared in the April 25 Sheridan Press. In lieu of flowers, memorials may benefit a charity of the donor’s choice.

Mary Alice Anderson

Mary Alice Anderson, 77, of Buffalo died Saturday, June 13, 2009, at Johnson County Health Care Center. Private burial is planned. Survivors include her husband, Joe, of Buffalo and a brother, Charles W. Davis of Lake Havasu City, Ariz. In lieu of flowers, memorials may benefit the Susie Bowling Lawrence Hospice in care of Adams Funeral Home, 351 N. Adams Ave., Buffalo, WY 82834.

June 15, 2009

June 13, 2009

Fey Maxine (Heath) Moore

Former Sheridan resident Fey Maxine (Heath) Moore, 88, died Monday, June 1, 2009, in Colville, Wash. Services were Wednesday at Memorial Gardens Cemetery in Casper with Pastor Tim Adams of Grace Bible Baptist Church officiating. Arrangements were with Bustard’s Funeral Home in Casper. Born April 7, 1921, in Coger, Okla., she grew up in the Gillette and Arvada areas. In addition to Sheridan, she was a past resident of Big Piney and Lander, as well as Brooklyn, N.Y., Kimball, Neb., and numerous overseas locations. She was married for 67 years to Oran Thomas Moore. She enjoyed travel and was said to have accomplished everything on her “bucket list.” Mrs. Moore was preceded in death by two sons, Thomas and Gary. Survivors include her husband of Colville; two brothers, Chuck and Dale Heath of Sheridan; two children, Jeffrey Allan Moore of Kitchberg, Germany, and Penny Fey Kirby of Mukilteo, Wash.; three grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews, and grand-nieces and -nephews.

June 12, 2009

Teresa Louise Case Bowerman

Teresa Louise Case Bowerman, 61, of Ranchester died Saturday, June 6, 2009, in Sheridan Memorial Hospital. Services are 1 p.m. Saturday at United Methodist Church in Superior, Mont. Danekas Funeral Chapel and Crematory is in charge of arrangements. Born May 21, 1948, in Superior to Arthur Louis Case and Orie Ione (Young) Case, she grew up in Superior and graduated from high school in 1966. In 1969, she married Fred W. Bentley Jr. They moved to Wallace, Idaho. The couple had two daughters and were divorced. She returned in the early 1980s to Superior, where she married Lyle Bowerman. The family moved to Ranchester. Mrs. Bowerman enjoyed art and singing.
Survivors include her husband; two children, Kerri Holling of Wallace and Jodi Bentley of Osburn, Idaho; three stepchildren, Rhonda Bowerman of Hot Springs, Mont., Kris Morgeau of Polson, Mont., and Carlene Grant of Butte, Mont.; a sister, Diana Lindback of Colville, Wash.; a brother, Steve Case of Colombia, South America; 10 grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts and uncles. Memorials may benefit Shriners’ Hospitals for Children. Visit the online memorial and sign the guest book at www.danekasfuneralchapel.com.

Michael H. Kobielusz

Michael H. Kobielusz, 37, of Sheridan died Wednesday, June 10, 2009, in his home. Memorial service is 10 a.m. Monday at Champion Ferries Funeral Home with the Rev. Douglas Goodwin officiating. Burial of cremains will be in Sheridan Municipal Cemetery at a later date. Born Oct. 16, 1971, in Wheat Ridge, Colo., to Gary and Cynthia (Kunesh) Kobielusz, he moved with his family to Sheridan as a small child. He grew up and graduated from high school in Sheridan and worked several jobs before joining the Wyoming Department of Transportation in 2002. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, riding motorcycles and spending time with his son, Jordan. He attended First Christian Church.
He was preceded in death by his father. Survivors include his son of Carbondale, Colo.; his mother, Cynthia Purcella; a sister, Kara Schreibeis; three grandparents, Howard and Joan Kunesh and John T. Kobielusz, all of Sheridan; and a niece. Memorials may benefit Michael Kobielusz’s son's education fund in care of Kara Schreibeis, Security State Bank, 2070 Coffeen Ave., Sheridan, WY 82801.

Anne Pauline (Legerski) Aksamit

Anne Pauline (Legerski) Aksamit, 89, of Ranchester died Wednesday, June 10, 2009, at Sheridan Manor. Rosary is 7 p.m. Sunday at Kane Funeral Home. Memorial Mass is 10 a.m. Monday at Holy Name Catholic Church with the Rev. Ron Stolcis officiating. Born June 12, 1919, in Kooi to John and Anna (Ligocki) Legerski, she attended public school through the eighth grade. She married Sylvester “Cecil” Aksamit at St. Thomas Catholic Church on Feb. 19, 1939. She was a longtime resident of Ranchester and enjoyed camping at South Tongue in the Big Horn Mountains. As a homemaker she enjoyed baking and cooking, family dinners, gardening, embroidering, and serving at the school cafeteria. She was preceded in death by her husband, four brothers, a sister, and grandson. Survivors include four sons, Richard Aksamit of Washington, Ronald Aksamit of Ranchester, Gene Aksamit of Colorado, and David Aksamit of Dayton; and two daughters, Cecilia Kuzara of Sheridan and Linda Carlat of Buffalo. Memorials may benefit Tongue River Valley Community Center, P.O. Box 792, Ranchester WY 82839.

Genevieve L. Cowan

Genevieve L. Cowan, 74, of Sheridan died Thursday, June 11, 2009, at her residence. Arrangements are with Kane Funeral Home.

FRANKLIN CHRISTY AINSWORTH, OCTOBER 6, 1925 - JUNE 9, 2009

Franklin Christy Ainsworth died on June 9, 2009, in Greeley, CO. of natural causes at the age of 83. He was born in Wilmington, DE on October 6, 1925 to Franklin Christy Ainsworth and May Shevlin Ainsworth. Frank attended school, in Wilmington, De. At the age of 18, he was given the choice to graduate as usual, or be given his high school diploma early to join the Merchant Marines to help in the war effort. He, as others did, chose the adventure on the high seas of the Pacific. He enjoyed his time in the service despite the hardships of war. After his service, he came back to Wilmington for a couple of years and worked at Dupont. Frank attended Utah State University in Logan, UT. He received a BA in Geology in 1952. He was a member of the social fraternity, SAE. Frank married Ruth Houck, December 26, 1949. After graduation they traveled around the west while he drilled for oil. From Utah, to Colorado, to South Dakota, to Kansas, and to Wyoming where they finally settled in Sheridan in 1953. Mr. Ainsworth worked in the oil fields on the Montana and Wyoming border for over 20 years and retired from Mobile Oil Co. in 1976. Frank and Ruth were divorced in 1971, and he moved to Buffalo WY shortly thereafter, where he met and married his second wife, Shirley, on November 1, 1973. Mr. Ainsworth later moved to Greeley, CO to be near his children. He lived in various assisted living and nursing homes until his death, under the ever-faithful, loving eyes of his daughter, Janet Crego. Frank loved to travel and entertain friends. He died a Christian and knew he would see loved ones in heaven. He will be forever missed by all who loved him. Frank is survived by five children, four daughters, Susan (the late Bill) Allen, Gainsville, FL, Janet (Dan) Crego, Greeley, CO, Christy (Peter) Watertown, SD, Laurie (Chuck) Warich, Milford, MA, and one son Jeffrey Ainsworth Hudson, CO. Frank is also survived by 12 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents, and two sisters. A memorial service to celebrate Frank_s life will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, June 12, 2009 at the Life Care Center, 4800 25th Street in Greeley.

June 11, 2009

Anne P. (Legerski) Aksamit

Anne P. (Legerski) Aksamit, 89, of Ranchester died Wednesday, June 10, 2009, at Sheridan Manor. Services are pending. Arrangements are with Kane Funeral Home.

June 10, 2009

Janet Breford

Janet Breford, 83, of Sheridan, mother of Pam McClure of Sheridan, died Monday, June 8, 2009, in Sheridan Memorial Hospital. Cremation has taken place, and no services are planned at this time. Arrangements are with Kane Funeral Home.

Lucille M. Baker

Lucille M. Baker, 97, of Sheridan died Monday, June 8, 2009, in Sheridan Memorial Hospital. Private committal of her cremains will be later this summer. Arrangements are with Champion Ferries Funeral Home.

Lawrence ‘Dean’ Switzer

Lawrence “Dean” Switzer, 90, of Circle, Mont., brother of Prudence Grunkemeyer and Mary Toland of Sheridan, died Wednesday, May 20, 2009, at McCone County Health Center in Circle. Services were May 25 at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Circle. Arrangements were with Clayton Stevenson Memorial Chapel of Wolf Point, Mont. Born May 26, 1918, in Bloomfield, Neb., to Esther and Wayne Switzer, he grew up in Sheridan on a dairy farm and graduated from Sheridan High School. He worked on the family ranch, then moved to central Montana. In 1947, he established the Switzer Brothers Ranch between Circle and Richey, Mont., with his brother Bob. He married Patricia Wickens in Denton, Mont., on Sept. 5, 1949. He served on state boards for the Montana Beef Council, Farm Bureau and Stockgrowers and was a county farm bureau president. Mr. Switzer also served four terms in the Montana House of Representatives (1981-1989) and several years as director of Mid-Rivers Telephone Co-op. He was a member of St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church. He enjoyed ranching, rodeos, politics and football and was a 4-H horse leader. He was preceded in death by an infant son, Martin Wayne Switzer; and two brothers, Bob and Jack. Survivors include his wife; three children Deanna Brost of Brockway, Mont., Eileen Solberg of Billings, and Larry Switzer of the family ranch; four siblings, Kenneth Switzer and Bill Switzer of Ojai, Calif., Frances Brewster of Burlington, Iowa, and Nancy Haynos of St. Mary’s, Kan.; several grandchildren; a great-grandson; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Laurence William ‘Larry’ Truax

Laurence William "Larry" Truax, 92, of Sundance, father of Bill John Truax of Sheridan, died Tuesday, June 2, 2009, at his home. Cremation has taken place. A family service is planned later. Mr. Truax worked as a laborer in Works Progress Administration programs, a sheriff, an airplane pilot, construction company owner, car salesman, assistant mortician, construction superintendent for Roberts Construction & Summit Construction, and the Wyoming Department of Transportation. He enjoyed being with his family, gardening, his wood shop, and working with horses. An avid hunter, he shot his last elk when he was 86 years old. Survivors include his wife, Bobbie; three children, David Truax of Maiden Rock, Wis., Joanne Donovan of Quartzsite, Ariz., and Judy Rees of Carlsbad, Calif.; four stepchildren, John Barker of Upton, Sue Fuhrmann of Sundance, Bill Barker of Osage, and Jim Barker of Lusk; 14 grandchildren; and 19 great-grandchildren. Memorials have been established to Treasured Memories Hospice or Sundance EMS. Friends may sign his online guest book at www.blackhillsfuneralhome.com.

LANSEMERE WALDON VANDERHOEF (LANCE ) MARCH 9, 1920 - APRIL 25, 2009

Lansemere Waldon Vanderhoef (Lance) passed away April 25, 2009 at the Sheridan VA Hospital following a brief illness. Lance was born March 9, 1920, 25 miles N.E. of Glendive, Montana to Walter Cornelius Vanderhoef and Beatrius Pearl (Harris) Vanderhoef. He was the seventh of nine sons. He was preceded in death by brothers Vernon Robert, Farrell Delose, Alric Eugene Ernest Algenon Vanderhoef. He is survived by brothers Esmond Harris, Berlyle Bernice, Aloyious Merlin and Doran Wayne Vanderhoef. Lance attended school in Glendive, Montana. At age 16 he began working for the Sako Land Company building spillways for the Fort Peck Dam. His work and _Taxi Dancing,_ while at Fort Peck, was photographed by Margaret Bourke-White. The pictures and article appeared in the first edition of Life Magazine on November 23, 1936. In 1938 he joined Peter Kiewit and Sons and moved to Buffalo, Wyoming to construct Highway 16 over Bighorn Mountains. While in Buffalo, he met Juanita Christina (Gray) Vanderhoef. They were married June 9, 1940 in Hardin, Montana. In early 1941, the newlyweds moved to Vancouver, Washington to work for Kaiser Vancouver Shipyard on the Columbia River. With World War II at hand, Lance operated a crane at the Kaiser Shipyards building Warships. At the rate of one ship per week, Kaiser produced 140 ships for the United States Navy including Liberty Ships, Tank Landing Crafts, AP-5 Troop Transports and Aircraft Carrier Escorts. When Pearl Harbor was attacked, Lance enlisted in the US Army and Juanita returned to Buffalo, Wyoming. He joined Juanita after his honorable discharge in 1946. Lance and Juanita had three children. Ronald Deane Vanderhoef, born August 31, 1942 in Vancouver, Washington; Diana Lee Vanderhoef, born December 28, 1945 in Buffalo, Wyoming; and Lane Allen Vanderhoef, born November 11, 1946 in Buffalo, Wyoming. Lance owned and operated Vanderhoef Appliance & TV in Buffalo, Wyoming before organizing R & L Service in 1962. From inception, R & L Serviced as regional dealer for what is now Titan Trailer MFG., Inc. He relocated R & L Service to Dayton, Wyoming in 1990. Lance was recognized as Titan_s _Outstanding Dealer in the U.S._ in 2007. Lance was preceded in death by Juanita, his wife of sixty-eight years, on January 18, 2008. In addition to four brothers, Lance is survived by 1) son Ronald Deane Vanderhoef and wife Kathy Jane of Dayton, Wyoming and their family; grandson Tyler Harrison Vanderhoef and wife Carla of Casper, Wyoming; grandson Christian John Vanderhoef and wife Amy, and great-granddaughter Anna Marie Vanderhoef and great-grandson Aiden Baker Vanderhoef all of Sheridan, Wyoming; 2) daughter Diana Lee Vanderhoef of Mukilteo, Washington; and 3) son Lane Allen Vanderhoef of Sheridan, Wyoming and his family, grandson Michael David Vanderhoef and granddaughter Alison Catherine Vanderhoef of Sheridan, Wyoming, and granddaughter Donna Gonzales and great-granddaughter Brittany Clemons of Blue Springs, Missouri. Lance was a lifelong member of the American Legion, Elks Club, American Quarter Horse Association and National Rifle Association. A private memorial service will be held at the Horseshoe Ranch in Dayton, Wyoming to celebrate Lance's life and to honor the guidance, influence and example he provided to his family.

June 9, 2009

Wendell ‘Oakly’ Neard

Memorial services and a celebration of life for Sheridan native Wendell “Oakly” Neard are 11 a.m. Saturday at Kendrick Municipal Golf Course with a reception to follow at the Sheridan Elks Club. Mr. Neard, 76, died April 1. His obituary appeared in the April 4 Sheridan Press.

Grace Elizabeth Bonner

Grace Elizabeth Bonner, 88, of Sheridan died Monday, June 1, 2009, in Sheridan Manor. At her request, no services are planned. Arrangements are with Champion Ferries Funeral Home. Mrs. Bonner was born Aug. 17, 1920, in Agate, Neb., to William Henry and Pearl Elizabeth (Kinner) Murphy. She grew up and attended schools in Torrington and graduated from Torrington High School. She married Lloyd Ferguson in 1941. After his death, she married Harry Bonner in 1948. She retired from employment as a bookkeeper at Mountain Bell. A member of Rebekah Lodge, she enjoyed cooking, bowling, and dancing. In addition to her first husband, she was preceded in death by her second husband; two sisters, one brother, one stepson, and two grandchildren. Survivors include two sons, William G. Ferguson and Harry E. Bonner, both of Sheridan; one brother, Terry Murphy; seven grandchildren; and 12 great-grandchildren. Memorials may benefit Sheridan Manor, 1851 Big Horn Ave., Sheridan, WY 82801.

Catherine C. ‘Rene’ Adams

Catherine C. "Rene" Adams, 77, of Big Horn died Sunday, June 7, 2009, at her home. Per her request, cremation has taken place; burial will be private. Rosary is 7 p.m. today at Kane Funeral Home. Memorial Mass will be 10 a.m. Wednesday at Holy Name Catholic Church with the Rev. Ron Stolcis officiating. Born July 16, 1931, in Thunder Bay, Ontario, to Giovanna (Casseta) and Ludovico Bottos, she attended grade school at St. Martin’s and a vocational high school. Following high school, she graduated in 1952 from nurses’ training school at McKellar Memorial Hospital in Fort Williams, Ontario. She spent several years in northern Canada, nursing in outpost hospitals for the Ontario Red Cross and the Department of National Health and Welfare. Upon graduation from a medical technology program in 1965, she returned north to Prince Rupert, British Columbia, where she met her future husband, Randy Adams of Dayton. They were married in Sheridan on July 21, 1967. She was an avid curler on the Dawson City, Yukon Territory, team for several years and received several trophies. She resided in British Columbia for two years and then Nooksack, Wash., for eight years. The couple made Big Horn their permanent home in 1977. She was a lifetime member of the Big Horn Woman’s Club and its president from 2003-2007. She was also a member of the Big Horn City Historical Society, Backyard Habitat, and annually assisted Sheridan County Community Health with flu shot clinics. She was an active member and volunteer of Holy Name Catholic Church. Her hobbies were painting, growing wildflowers, knitting, gardening, cards, board games, and feeding wildlife. Mrs. Adams was very proud to become an American citizen Oct. 21, 2002. She was preceded in death by her husband and a sister. Survivors include a daughter, Becky Husske; two grandchildren; two sisters, Wilma Sekwich and Elsie Matis of Thunder Bay, Ontario; and numerous nieces and nephews. In lieu of flowers, memorials may benefit the Big Horn Woman’s Club, .PO. Box 151, Big Horn, WY 82833, or a charity of the donor’s choice.

Maurice ‘Red’ Wortman

Maurice “Red” Wortman, 86, of Gillette, father of Patty Colvin of Sheridan, died Saturday, June 6, 2009, at Pioneer Manor Nursing Home in Gillette of natural causes. Visitation is 4-6 p.m. Wednesday at Gillette Memorial Chapel with a prayer vigil at 6 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial is 10 a.m. Thursday at St. Matthew’s Catholic Church in Gillette with the Rev. Cliff Jacobson officiating. Burial will follow in Mount Pisgah Cemetery. Born Oct. 4, 1922, to Frank and Marietta (Morris) Wortman in Orient, S.D., he moved with his parents to a farm northeast of Isabel, S.D., where he grew up and attended school. As a young man he worked on the family farm. He married Irene Evelyn Hill on Nov. 12, 1945, and they made their first home in a sheep wagon before purchasing a ranch near Isabel. In the early 1950s, he began employment in road construction and operating heavy equipment, a career he continued until he was more than 80 years old. Due to his work, the family moved many times throughout North and South Dakota, Montana and as far south as New Mexico. In 1960, the family settled in McLaughlin, S.D., where he partnered in a construction company building dams, dugouts and roads for the area’s farmers and ranchers. The couple also owned and operated Wortman Trailer Court. In 1977, the family moved to Gillette during the boom years, and Mr. Wortman worked at Clovis Point and Jacobs Ranch coal mines, retiring in 1989. However, he continued to work for area construction companies. An active member of the Pony Express Club, he enjoyed working with horses and was a member of St. Matthew’s Catholic Church and Knights of Columbus. He was preceded in death by a brother, Lyle, and a grandson. Survivors include three sons, Dennis Wortman of Deadwood, S.D., Larry Wortman of Carter Lake, Iowa, and Robert Wortman of Gillette; three other daughters, Rhonda Wortman, Susan Kramer and Gina Grimm of Gillette; two brothers, Wallace Wortman of Forest Grove, Ore., and Jim Wortman of Cibilo, Texas; two sisters, Madonna Alley of Isabel and Eileen Becker of Hillsboro, Ore.; 13 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews. Memorials and condolences may be sent in care of Gillette Memorial Chapel, 210 W. Fifth St., Gillette, WY 82716 or at www.gillettememorialchapel.com.

EMMETT JOHN WARFIELD MAY 14, 1925 - JUNE 4, 2009

Emmett John Warfield, amateur rodeo bronc rider, rancher and sailor, passed away at his home in Coeur d_Alene, Idaho, June 4, after a five month illness. Emmett was born May 14, 1925, in Arvada, WY, to Walter (from Michigan) and Mary Francis - Mae - Kelly, (a school teacher from Nebraska) and was a member of the Catholic faith. In 1919, Emmett’s parents homesteaded near Leiter, WY, about 1 mile south of the old Davis Ranch. They built a log house by Clear Creek at the site of the well-known Davis Crossing and moved into their new home about 1937. It was here that Emmett and his older brother Frank were raised and learned to love the wide open spaces of Wyoming. Emmett graduated from Sheridan High School in 1943 where he excelled in pen and ink western art. As a young man, he enjoyed riding in local and regional rodeos. After the death of his parents in the mid 60’s, Emmett continued to work the family ranch and in November 1967, he married June Meeker Severance; they were married until 1976. In 1978, Emmett sold the ranch in Leiter and first moved to Colorado, then Montana and finally settled in the Panhandle of Idaho where he resided for the last 25 years. Emmett was lured by the many lakes in and around Coeur d_Alene and became an avid sailor of a 25 foot craft. He was a fervent reader of nonfiction (especially geology of Northwest U.S. and history of all sorts) and he remained active by walking and riding his bicycle around town. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother Frank who died in service during WWII, his former wife and friend, June, and a step-great grandson, Landen J. Poll. Emmett is survived by four step-daughters, June Puzuhanich Freilinger, Englewood, CO, Janis Puzuhanich Clarke, Palm Desert, CA, Jean Puzuhanich Poll, Twin Lakes, ID, and Julie Severance Mitchell (Parke), Sheridan, WY, five step-grandchildren and as well as great grandchildren. He will be missed by his daughters and their families, many neighbors, friends, and special caregivers. No services are planned. Cremation has taken place; and from within his favorite cowboy hat, his ashes will be scattered over the countryside that he loved. “ Now that you have crossed over to be with those family members who have left this earth before you Emmett, it is time again to have a foot race with your brother Frank - and this time you can beat him!”

June 8, 2009

Emmett John Warfield

Sheridan County native Emmett John Warfield, 84, died Thursday, June 4, 2009, at his home in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, following a brief illness. Cremation has taken place and no services are planned. Born May 14, 1925, in Arvada to Walter and Mary Francis “Mae” (Kelly) Warfield, he homesteaded with his family near Leiter and graduated from Sheridan High School in 1943. He rode in local and regional rodeos and was known for his pen-and-ink Western drawings. He worked the family ranch after his parents died.
He married June Meeker Severance in 1967. They divorced in 1976. After the Leiter ranch was sold, Mr. Warfield moved to Colorado, then Montana, and eventually settled in northern Idaho. He became an avid sailor and enjoyed reading nonfiction (particularly geology and history), walking and bicycle riding. He was preceded in death by a brother, Frank. Survivors include four stepdaughters, June Puzuhanich Freilinger of Englewood, Colo., Janis Puzuhanich Clarke of Palm Desert, Calif., Jean Puzuhanich Poll of Twin Lakes, Idaho, and Julie Severance Mitchell of Sheridan; and numerous step-great-grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Rachel Schmidt

Graveside funeral services for Rachel Schmidt, 95, of Buffalo are 2 p.m. Tuesday in Willow Grove Cemetery. She died Thursday, April 2, 2009, at Westview Health Care Center in Sheridan. Her death announcement was in the April 3 Sheridan Press. Cremation arrangements were with Champion Ferries Funeral Home. Burial of cremains is with Adams Funeral Home in Buffalo.

Teresa L. Bowerman

Teresa L. Bowerman, 61, of Ranchester died Saturday, June 6, 2009, in Sheridan Memorial Hospital. Arrangements are pending with Champion Ferries Funeral Home.

Catherine C. Adams

Catherine C. Adams, 78, of Sheridan died Sunday, June 7, 2009, at her residence. Rosary will be recited 7 p.m. Tuesday at Kane Funeral Home. Mass will be celebrated 10 a.m. Wednesday at Holy Name Catholic Church with the Rev. Ron Stolcis officiating.

June 6, 2009

No obituaries reported.

June 5, 2009

Darwin Darrell ‘Scotty’ Scott

Darwin Darrell "Scotty" Scott, 69, of Ranchester died Thursday, June 4, 2009, in Sheridan Memorial Hospital. Cremation has taken place. Kane Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. Born Dec. 25, 1939, in North Platte, Neb., he was raised in Sheridan and Cheyenne. He married Barbara Howe. They divorced. He married Karen Kukuchka on Jan. 28, 1967, in Greeley, Colo. Mr. Scott worked 48 years for Reiman Corp. of Cheyenne building bridges. He enjoyed his work, spending time with his family, four-wheeling, snow-machining, and his two dogs. He was preceded in death by three sisters, Beverly, Thelma, and his twin, Darlene; and two brothers, Leroy and Darrell. Survivors include his wife; three daughters, Christine Erickson of Cheyenne, Diane White of Portland, Ore., and Cindy Wilson of Cody; two sons, Daniel Scott of Cheyenne and David Scott of Portland; 10 grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren. Memorials may benefit Tongue River Valley Community Center.

Phyllis J. Smith

Phyllis J. Smith, 77, of Sheridan died Friday, May 22, 2009, in Aztec, N.M. Memorial services are planned later. Born June 29, 1931, in Sidney, Mont., to John and Julia Kallevig, she married Wesley Smith on July 18, 1948, in Sidney. She was a nursing assistant at Sheridan Memorial Hospital and Sheridan VA Medical Center. Mrs. Smith enjoyed being a mother and a grandmother. She was preceded in death by a daughter, Marvis Bomar, and a son, Keith Smith. Her husband died June 3. Survivors include two sons, Ken and Mark Smith, both of Sheridan; two daughters, Marie Feist of Sheridan and Karlette Winebarger of Aztec; 14 grandchildren; and 17 great-grandchildren. Memorials may benefit the Salvation Army.

Wesley G. Smith

Wesley G. Smith, 80, of Sheridan died Wednesday, June 3, 2009, in Aztec, N.M. Memorial services are planned later. Born Nov. 27, 1928, in Dickinson, N.D., to Gordon and Helen Smith, he married Phyllis Kallevig on July 18, 1948, in Sidney, Mont. He worked 25 years for Sweetheart Bread, then for Decker Coal until he retired. He was preceded in death by his wife; a daughter, Marvis Bomar; and a son, Keith Smith. Survivors include sons Ken and Mark Smith, both of Sheridan; two daughters, Marie Feist of Sheridan and Karlette Winebarger of Aztec; 14 grandchildren; and 17 great-grandchildren.

Helen Gearhart

Helen Gearhart, 81, of Buffalo, died Tuesday, June 2, 2009, at Amie Holt Care Center. Visitation is 1-9 p.m. Friday and 8-9:30 a.m. Saturday at Adams Funeral Home Chapel. Funeral services are 10 a.m. Saturday at the chapel with Pastor Mike Leibee officiating. Burial will be in Willow Grove Cemetery. Born Dec. 4, 1927, in Sheridan to John and Helen Sept, she grew up and attended school in Big Horn, Sheridan and Buffalo. She married George Gearhart on June 28, 1947, in Hardin, Mont. They resided in Sheridan and Johnson counties, where Mr. Gearhart worked on ranches. After their children were grown, they moved to Buffalo, where Mrs. Gearhart worked as a dietitian at the hospital, retiring in 1993. She enjoyed taking care of flowers, watching John Wayne movies and the Denver Broncos, and spending time in the mountains and with her family. She was preceded in death by her husband, six brothers, and five sisters. Survivors include five sons, Al of Pennsylvania, Bob and Charles of Gillette, Dennis of Buffalo, and Tom of Sundance; four daughters, Jane Pfeifer of Santa Clarita, Calif., Carol Gray of Gillette, Phyllis Ramsey of Sundance, and Mary Lou Leibee of Buffalo; a sister, Bertha Britzman of Riverside, Calif.; and 78 grand- and great-grandchildren. Memorials may benefit Buffalo Head Start c/o Adams Funeral Home, 351 N. Adams Ave., Buffalo, WY 82834.

June 4, 2009

Robert W. Hunter

Robert W. Hunter, 85, of Sheridan died Thursday, May 28, 2009, at Sheridan VA Medical Center. Cremation has taken place. Memorial services are 11 a.m. Tuesday at Sheridan Wesleyan Church with Chuck Lucas officiating. A reception will follow in the church parish hall. Kane Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. Born June 21, 1923, in Los Angeles to Robert and Marjorie Hunter, he enlisted in the Army in 1943 and served until his honorable discharge in 1946. He played the flute through his school years and for a short time in the Army. After military service he completed a bachelor’s degree in architecture. He later started his own cattle business and raised Angus bulls. He married Deo Wilcox in 1947. She died in 1991. He married Docia Carroll in Hardin, Mont., on July 30, 1993. Survivors include his wife; two sons, Harlan Hunter of Shelton, Conn., and Warren Hunter of Pomona, Calif.; a sister, Bethany Hunter of Sheridan; six stepchildren; one granddaughter; one great-grandson; 14 step-grandchildren; and three step-great-grandchildren. Memorials may benefit Vision Beyond Borders, P.O. Box 6770, Sheridan, WY 82801 or Sheridan Wesleyan Church Building Fund, 404 W. Brundage Lane, Sheridan.

Darwin Scott

Darwin Scott, 69, of Ranchester died Thursday, June 4, 2009, at Sheridan Memorial Hospital. Per his request, cremation has taken place and services are pending. Kane Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

JOHN LEGERSKI, JR, FEBRUARY 27, 1917 - JUNE 1, 2009

John Legerski, Jr., 92, of Sheridan, Wyoming died Monday, June 1, 2009 at Sheridan County Memorial Hospital with family at his side. John was born February 27, 1917 in Kleenburn, Wyoming to John Legerski, Sr. and Julia (Antonova) Legerski. He grew up on the family ranch at Kruse Creek East of Big Horn, Wyoming. He attended elementary and high school at Big Horn. He married Nina Mae Scott, the light of his life, on January 18, 1941 at Hardin, Montana. John worked at various jobs, including as a cowboy at local ranches, as a heavy equipment mechanic at Peter Kiewit Sons, before joining the Army during World War II. He was assigned to and trained with the 1269th Combat Engineers at Camp Chafee, Arkansas and Fort Knox, Kentucky. The 1269th then embarked from New York City to Marseilles, France. He was wounded in Nice, France and was hospitalized for 100 days. Afterward, he rejoined his outfit, which battled their way through the French Alps into southern Germany. The 1269th engineers were the first contingent of American soldiers to enter the Dachau Death Camp which John described as horrific. John returned home to his family from the war in February, 1946. In 1951 John joined his brother Joe as an owner of the historical Brown Palace Bar, which they operated for the next thirty years until their retirement. He was preceded in death by his grandson, Brice Crosby Legerski; his parents; brothers Joseph C., Rudy R., and Edward; and sisters Mary Haratyk and Julia Yazoski; a niece, Michelle Legerski Schleyer; and nephews Edward Kilmarx III, Gregory Legerski and John Haratyk. John is survived by his loving wife Nina, three children, Colleen Ann Bushmaker, Floyd Legerski and Dr. Randy John Legerski; three grandchildren Keri R Legerski, Tamara Houghton and Scott Bushmaker; four great grandchildren, and one great-great grandson; four brothers and one sister, Andrew, Walter, William, Louis, and Alma Kilmarx. John had a great sense of humor and loved telling stories about his family and his life in Sheridan. He would often reminisce about his remarkable war experiences. John was an outdoorsman who loved the Big Horn Mountains and called Sheridan _God_s Country. He was truly a member of Tom Brokaws_The Greatest Generation. He will be greatly missed. A rosary service will be held Friday evening, June 5, at 7:00 at Champion Ferries Funeral Home. The funeral mass will be held Saturday morning at 10:00 at Holy Name Catholic Church with internment at the Elks Section, Sheridan Municipal Cemetery. Memorials may benefit Holy Name Catholic School or Sheridan Senior Center.

June 3, 2009

Ada Lucille Campbell

Memorial graveside services for Ada Lucille Campbell, 82, of Sheridan are 2 p.m. Saturday in the Masonic Circle section of Sheridan Municipal Cemetery. The Rev. Brian Johnson will officiate. Mrs. Campbell died Feb. 19 in Sheridan Manor. Her obituary appeared in the Feb. 20 Sheridan Press. Arrangements are with Champion Ferries Funeral Home.

William Paul ‘Bill’ Michaelis

William Paul “Bill” Michaelis, 77, of Buffalo died Friday, May 29, 2009, at Johnson County Healthcare Center in Buffalo. Vigil and rosary were Tuesday with Mass of Christian Burial this morning at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Buffalo, the Rev. Pete Johnson officiating. Burial is private. Born Sept. 11, 1931, in Basin to Henry and Rhea Michaelis, he grew up and went to school in Basin and graduated from Basin High School with the class of 1951. After high school he took a job with Big Horn Rural Electric Co. in Basin. In June 1952, he was drafted into the United States Army and served in the Korean War. He received an honorable discharge in 1954 with the rank of sergeant and returned to his job in Basin with Big Horn Rural Electric Co. He married Sheryl Schmer in Greybull on July 23, 1955. They made their home in Basin. In 1965 the family moved to Gillette and entered the motel business in both Gillette and Casper. They moved to Casper in 1966. Mr. Michaelis worked for Texaco’s Casper refinery from 1967 until the plant closed in 1982. The company transferred him to Port Arthur, Texas, and he was laid off with 3,000 other employees in 1985 after 19 total years of service as a maintenance supervisor. The couple moved to Fort Collins, Colo., where he continued to work under contract with refineries throughout the country. In 1991 they moved to Buffalo, where he was a refinery consultant until retiring in 1995. Mr. Michaelis enjoyed his family, home, golf, the outdoors, his many friends, Buffalo, and its people. He served on the Senior Center Board and was president of the Senior Center Foundation. He was a member of the American Legion and an active member of St. John’s Catholic Church. He was preceded in death by three brothers, Jerry, Pat and Jim. Survivors include his wife; three sons, Tarry of Casper, Chris of Albuquerque, N.M., and Brad of Phoenix; two brothers, Dick of Green Valley, Ariz., and Michael of Auburn, Wash.; and three grandchildren. Donations may benefit the Buffalo Senior Center Foundation or donor’s choice c/o Adams Funeral Home, 351 N. Adams Ave., Buffalo, WY 82834.

Vlasta L. Sindelar

Vlasta L. Sindelar, 89, of Howells, Neb., mother of Marian Ring of Sheridan, died Monday, June 1, 2009, at Golden Living Center in Clarkson, Neb. Funeral services are 10:30 a.m. Friday at St. John's Nepomucene Catholic Church in Howells, Neb., with burial in the church cemetery. Visitation will be 2:30 to 8 p.m. Thursday at the church and one hour before services Friday. An Altar Society rosary is 3 p.m. Thursday with public rosary following at 7 p.m. at the church. Humlicek Funeral Home of Dodge, Neb., is in charge of arrangements. Survivors include her husband, Mike F. Sindelar Jr. of Clarkson, Neb.; three additional children, Ervin Sindelar of Clarkson, Neb., and Veronica Flamme and Michael Sindelar of Howells; two sisters, Alice Sindelar of West Point, Neb., and Sylvia Matejka of Hickman, Neb.; 11 grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren; and three step-great-grandchildren.

KAREN ANN MAXWELL APRIL 27, 1943 - MAY 29, 2009

Karen Ann Maxwell, 66 year old Worland resident, passed away on May 29, 2009 at the Washakie Medical Center in Worland, WY. Karen was born on April 27, 1943 to Fred W. and Helen (Piel) Schneider in Worland, Wyoming. She received her education at Worland High School. On June 5th 1960, she married J.W. Dub Maxwell in Worland. They later adopted three children, Lisa in 1961, J.D. and Terri in 1964. She worked for Jons Foodliner as a bookkeeper and checker for many years. She was also very actively involved with the in-store promotions. She was a member of the Worland Jayceettes, as well as the Wyoming and National Jayceettes. She served as president of this organization during the years of 1969, 1970 and 1971. She was honored as the Woman of the Year in 1970, and the 1st Lady of Shrine Kalif Temple in 1984. She started the Smarteens which was a drug prevention program for teens. She was also a past president in the Worland Civic League. She enjoyed writing poetry and spending time in the mountains with family. She and Dub also traveled extensively around the world which she immensely enjoyed. She was preceded in death by her parents, Fred and Helen Schneider; her mother and father-in-law: John and Agnes Maxwell; her daughter: Lisa Maxwell Frazier and grandson: John Colton Logan. Karen is survived by her husband, John W. Dub Maxwell, one son: J.D. (Robin) Maxwell of Billings, MT; one daughter: Terri (Chris) Logan and one brother: Richard (Linda) Schneider, all of Worland; grandchildren: Zach and Jordan Logan, J.W. Maxwell IV, Chase Maxwell and Milisa Frazier. Funeral Services will be held 10:00 a.m. Thursday, June 4th at the United Methodist Church with Reverend Grover Briggs officiating. Burial will follow at Riverview Memorial Gardens Cemetery. Memorial donations may be made to the Shriners Hospital for Children in care of Bryant Funeral Home, PO Box 524, Worland, WY 82401.

June 2, 2009

Bill Michaelis

Bill Michaelis, 77, of Buffalo died Friday, May 29, 2009, at Johnson County Healthcare Center in Buffalo. Vigil and rosary are 7 p.m. today at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Buffalo with the Rev. Pete Johnson as celebrant. Mass of Christian Burial is 10 a.m. Wednesday at the church. Burial is private. Memorials may benefit Buffalo Senior Center Foundation or a charity of the donor’s choice in care of Adams Funeral Home, 351 N. Adams Ave., Buffalo, WY 82834.

John Legerski Jr.

John Legerski Jr., 92, of Sheridan died Monday, June 1, 2009, in Sheridan Memorial Hospital. Arrangements are pending with Champion Ferries Funeral Home.

Grace E. Bonner

Grace E. Bonner, 88, of Sheridan died Monday, June 1, 2009, in Sheridan Manor. Arrangements are pending with Champion Ferries Funeral Home.

June 1, 2009

No obituaries reported.

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