Alicia Koenig, 63, passed away unexpectedly on her mother’s birthday, Wednesday, Dec. 11, 2019.

Alicia loved to create joy for others. She embraced the fun in life, with costumes, pink flamingos, dance parties, pinatas and anything that turned the mundane into exciting. First and foremost, Alicia loved Tom, and her children – Jackie, Justin and Jacob.

As her children created their own families, Alicia found a new love in her son- and daughters-in-laws, and her grandchildren. Farm grandma created a special world of imagination and possibility her grandkids will carry on for years to come.

Alicia’s love for others guided her life. In addition to her family, her friends and co-workers were the recipients of her special brand of love. She was the first to help when it was needed, and the first to find a new way to celebrate.&nbsp;

Alicia Ellen (Sweeney) Koenig was born on January 18 in 1956 to Mary and Francis Sweeney. &nbsp;She graduated from Bishop LeBlond High School in 1974. She married Tom Koenig on May 15, 1976. &nbsp;Alicia had two long time careers.&nbsp; She stayed at home with her three children for many years, and also spent 29 years with American Family Insurance.&nbsp;

In addition to her family and work, Alicia served on the Seven Dolors Altar Society for many years.

Alicia is survived by her husband, Tom, and her children Jacquelyn (Jeremy, Justin (Lindsay, Jacob (Ellie) and her seven grandchildren – Franklin, Harvey, Edison, William, Grayson, Murphy and Crosby. She is also survived by her siblings Patricia, Joe (Linda, Tim and Sheila (Kevin) as well as many loving nieces and nephews; many wonderful close friends.&nbsp;

Mass of Christian Burial:&nbsp; 10:00 AM, Thursday, December 19, 2019 at Seven Dolors Church.&nbsp; (12750 NE Hurlingen Rd, Easton, MO 64443)&nbsp; Interment:&nbsp; St. Mary's Cemetery in Easton, Missouri

The family will receive friends from 4:00-9:00 PM&nbsp; on Wednesday, December 18, 2019 at Heaton-Bowman-Smith &amp; Sidenfaden Chapel in St. Joseph.&nbsp; Rosary 6:00 PM at our chapel.&nbsp;

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.&nbsp;

Alicia Koenig, 63, passed away unexpectedly on her mother’s birthday, Wednesday, Dec. 11, 2019.Alicia loved to create joy for others. She embraced the fun in life, with costumes, pink flamingos, dance parties, pinatas and anything that turned the mundane into exciting. First and foremost, Alicia loved Tom, and her children – Jackie, Justin and Jacob.As her children created their own families, Alicia found a new love in her son- and daughters-in-laws, and her grandchildren. Farm grandma created a special world of imagination and possibility her grandkids will carry on for years to come.Alicia’s love for others guided her life. In addition to her family, her friends and co-workers were the recipients of her special brand of love. She was the first to help when it was needed, and the first to find a new way to celebrate.&nbsp;Alicia Ellen (Sweeney) Koenig was born on January 18 in 1956 to Mary and Francis Sweeney. &nbsp;She graduated from Bishop LeBlond High School in 1974. She married Tom Koenig on May 15, 1976. &nbsp;Alicia had two long time careers.&nbsp; She stayed at home with her three children for many years, and also spent 29 years with American Family Insurance.&nbsp;In addition to her family and work, Alicia served on the Seven Dolors Altar Society for many years.Alicia is survived by her husband, Tom, and her children Jacquelyn (Jeremy, Justin (Lindsay, Jacob (Ellie) and her seven grandchildren – Franklin, Harvey, Edison, William, Grayson, Murphy and Crosby. She is also survived by her siblings Patricia, Joe (Linda, Tim and Sheila (Kevin) as well as many loving nieces and nephews; many wonderful close friends.&nbsp;Mass of Christian Burial:&nbsp; 10:00 AM, Thursday, December 19, 2019 at Seven Dolors Church.&nbsp; (12750 NE Hurlingen Rd, Easton, MO 64443)&nbsp; Interment:&nbsp; St. Mary's Cemetery in Easton, MissouriThe family will receive friends from 4:00-9:00 PM&nbsp; on Wednesday, December 18, 2019 at Heaton-Bowman-Smith &amp; Sidenfaden Chapel in St. Joseph.&nbsp; Rosary 6:00 PM at our chapel.&nbsp;In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.&nbsp;

Alicia Koenig  1956 - 2019

Ann Y. Hopp, of Hiawatha, formerly of Highland, died Friday, December 13, 2019, at Hiawatha Community Hospital, She was 85.

Ann was born January 10, 1934 in her Great Grandparents home North of Glen Elder, Ks. to Goldie L and Cecil B Anderson their marriage dissolved and Goldie married Harold R Merrill, he adopted Ann. They moved to Brighton, Colo.

She started school in CO and then the family moved to a farm North of Glen Elder and she went to Limestone and Washington Country Schools. They moved back to CO as her Dad was to go into the service, after the war was over they returned to Kansas and settled in Cawker City where Ann finished her education.&nbsp;

Melvin J Hake and Ann were married in Cawker City and to this union two sons were born,&nbsp; Terry L and Timothy J.&nbsp; They moved to Beloit when the Glen Elder dam was built as their home was in the flood plain.&nbsp; Ann worked for Boettcher Supply and the Beloit Creamery.&nbsp; They were divorced and Ann married Thomas G. Hopp they lived near White Cloud and later near Highland on the farm.&nbsp; This marriage dissolved after 38 years.

Ann enjoyed her home, her grandchildren, working in the garden and her flowers. She was a very good cook and when her boys were home the house was always full of hungry kids later friends enjoyed the meals there also. Their yard was her pride and joy with all the trees and grass.&nbsp; She loved animals and they always had several dogs and cats that showed up on their door steps.&nbsp;&nbsp; Bucket calves were a real source of enjoyment when one of the cows refused her baby.&nbsp; Ducks and Geese were often around till someone shot them or predators took their toll.&nbsp;&nbsp; She and her green tractor and tiller were seen around the Highland area for years tilling gardens and yards.&nbsp; She worked in the Kelley Store in White Cloud till after moving to Highland.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Later she worked 7 1/2 years&nbsp; at the Casey stores in Hiawatha and Highland.&nbsp;&nbsp; She worked at the Golden Eagle Casino in Horton, Ks for 10 1/2 years.

Ann was a member of the American Legion Auxiliary in Beloit, Ks till it disband then, White Cloud Auxiliary Post 154, she also was a member of the VFW Auxiliary Post 6424 in Beloit, Ks

Preceding her in death were her parent, and an older brother. Left to mourn are her sons

Terry, Minneapolis, Min and Timothy (Marilyn) Trimble, Mo, and grand children, Amanda (Faron) McNeal, KC Mo. Meagan (Troy) Parks, Kansas City, Mo., Kelsey (Steven) Bail, Tioga, N.D., Austin (Josie) Hake, Elmira, Mo. and 6 great Grand children &nbsp;&nbsp;A brother Dan (Pat) Merrill, Covina, Calif&nbsp; nieces, Lyn Marie, Lisa, Julie, nephews Steven, David, Jeff and great nieces and nephews.&nbsp;&nbsp; An Aunt, Georgia Becker, Weir, Ks&nbsp; and a host of cousins and friends.

She moved to Hiawatha and lived in the Maple Winds apt. where she had pots of flowers and a small garden. Her cats Booger and Kip were a great source of enjoyment. She and her friends Deb Roland and Sharon Nimz often went on trips together.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;Ann is to be cremated and a memorial service will be posted at a later date and announced by Chapel Oaks Funeral Home with burial in the Glenwood Cemetery near Glen Elder, Kansas

A message or remembrance may be left for the family at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.chapel/">www.chapel</a>oaksfuneralhome.com

Ann Y. Hopp, of Hiawatha, formerly of Highland, died Friday, December 13, 2019, at Hiawatha Community Hospital, She was 85.Ann was born January 10, 1934 in her Great Grandparents home North of Glen Elder, Ks. to Goldie L and Cecil B Anderson their marriage dissolved and Goldie married Harold R Merrill, he adopted Ann. They moved to Brighton, Colo.She started school in CO and then the family moved to a farm North of Glen Elder and she went to Limestone and Washington Country Schools. They moved back to CO as her Dad was to go into the service, after the war was over they returned to Kansas and settled in Cawker City where Ann finished her education.&nbsp;Melvin J Hake and Ann were married in Cawker City and to this union two sons were born,&nbsp; Terry L and Timothy J.&nbsp; They moved to Beloit when the Glen Elder dam was built as their home was in the flood plain.&nbsp; Ann worked for Boettcher Supply and the Beloit Creamery.&nbsp; They were divorced and Ann married Thomas G. Hopp they lived near White Cloud and later near Highland on the farm.&nbsp; This marriage dissolved after 38 years.Ann enjoyed her home, her grandchildren, working in the garden and her flowers. She was a very good cook and when her boys were home the house was always full of hungry kids later friends enjoyed the meals there also. Their yard was her pride and joy with all the trees and grass.&nbsp; She loved animals and they always had several dogs and cats that showed up on their door steps.&nbsp;&nbsp; Bucket calves were a real source of enjoyment when one of the cows refused her baby.&nbsp; Ducks and Geese were often around till someone shot them or predators took their toll.&nbsp;&nbsp; She and her green tractor and tiller were seen around the Highland area for years tilling gardens and yards.&nbsp; She worked in the Kelley Store in White Cloud till after moving to Highland.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Later she worked 7 1/2 years&nbsp; at the Casey stores in Hiawatha and Highland.&nbsp;&nbsp; She worked at the Golden Eagle Casino in Horton, Ks for 10 1/2 years.Ann was a member of the American Legion Auxiliary in Beloit, Ks till it disband then, White Cloud Auxiliary Post 154, she also was a member of the VFW Auxiliary Post 6424 in Beloit, KsPreceding her in death were her parent, and an older brother. Left to mourn are her sonsTerry, Minneapolis, Min and Timothy (Marilyn) Trimble, Mo, and grand children, Amanda (Faron) McNeal, KC Mo. Meagan (Troy) Parks, Kansas City, Mo., Kelsey (Steven) Bail, Tioga, N.D., Austin (Josie) Hake, Elmira, Mo. and 6 great Grand children &nbsp;&nbsp;A brother Dan (Pat) Merrill, Covina, Calif&nbsp; nieces, Lyn Marie, Lisa, Julie, nephews Steven, David, Jeff and great nieces and nephews.&nbsp;&nbsp; An Aunt, Georgia Becker, Weir, Ks&nbsp; and a host of cousins and friends.She moved to Hiawatha and lived in the Maple Winds apt. where she had pots of flowers and a small garden. Her cats Booger and Kip were a great source of enjoyment. She and her friends Deb Roland and Sharon Nimz often went on trips together.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ann is to be cremated and a memorial service will be posted at a later date and announced by Chapel Oaks Funeral Home with burial in the Glenwood Cemetery near Glen Elder, KansasA message or remembrance may be left for the family at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.chapel/">www.chapel</a>oaksfuneralhome.com

Ann Y. Hopp  1934 - 2019



Willa Wilson, 82, St. Joseph, Missouri, passed away Saturday, December 14, 2019.

She was born February 15, 1937 to Dale and Vetra (VanAusdel) Constant in Sheridan, Missouri.

Willa Mae married Donnis B. Wilson August 5, 1956. He proceeded her in death in 2001.

She was a seamstress extraordinaire for the former Einbender’s Department Store, where she ran the alterations department for many years. In addition to that she was an unofficial seamstress for the Lafayette High School Marching Band, and sewed many prom dresses.

She enjoyed sewing, cooking, and, most of all, her grandchildren. There was a large Willa Mae Fan Club. The most wonderful thing about Grandma was her unconditional love for her family, and her house on Main Street was “The Place to Be”.

Survivors include sons, Matt Wilson (Debbie, St. Joseph, Missouri, Kirby Wilson (Luanne, Kansas City, Missouri and Kevin Wilson, Sheridan, Missouri; daughters, Andrea Taylor (Norman, Kearney, Missouri and Mindy Andrasevits (Krista Kiger, St. Joseph, Missouri; 13 grandchildren and numerous great-grandchildren.

Farewell Graveside Services and Inurnment 10:00 A.M. Saturday, St. Joseph Memorial Park Cemetery under the direction of Meierhoffer Funeral Home &amp; Crematory. The family suggests memorial gifts to the St. Joseph Firefighters Memorial Fund.



Willa Wilson, 82, St. Joseph, Missouri, passed away Saturday, December 14, 2019.She was born February 15, 1937 to Dale and Vetra (VanAusdel) Constant in Sheridan, Missouri.Willa Mae married Donnis B. Wilson August 5, 1956. He proceeded her in death in 2001.She was a seamstress extraordinaire for the former Einbender’s Department Store, where she ran the alterations department for many years. In addition to that she was an unofficial seamstress for the Lafayette High School Marching Band, and sewed many prom dresses.She enjoyed sewing, cooking, and, most of all, her grandchildren. There was a large Willa Mae Fan Club. The most wonderful thing about Grandma was her unconditional love for her family, and her house on Main Street was “The Place to Be”.Survivors include sons, Matt Wilson (Debbie, St. Joseph, Missouri, Kirby Wilson (Luanne, Kansas City, Missouri and Kevin Wilson, Sheridan, Missouri; daughters, Andrea Taylor (Norman, Kearney, Missouri and Mindy Andrasevits (Krista Kiger, St. Joseph, Missouri; 13 grandchildren and numerous great-grandchildren.Farewell Graveside Services and Inurnment 10:00 A.M. Saturday, St. Joseph Memorial Park Cemetery under the direction of Meierhoffer Funeral Home &amp; Crematory. The family suggests memorial gifts to the St. Joseph Firefighters Memorial Fund.

Willa Mae Wilson  1937 - 2019



Charles A. Lau, 86, St. Joseph, Missouri, passed away Friday, December 13, 2019.

He was born July 31, 1933 to Arthur and Laura (Ranfranz) Lau in St. Joseph, Missouri.

Charles married Mary Beth True August 27, 1953.

He was a committed Christian, and family member and ardent supporter of Mizzou.

Charles was a member of St. Paul Lutheran Church, where he sang in the choir. He served in the Army artillery from 1956 to 1972, served as a member of St. Joseph city council and was Governor appointed Buchanan County Public Administrator. He worked as the business administrator for Structural Steel Company (29 yrs) and was a Missouri State Auditor. He was a member of the Missouri Alumni association, chairman of the 1980 St. Joseph Charter Commission, a high school football official for 35 years, coached boy’s baseball, served as a delegate to the 1972 Republican Convention. Charles was a member of the Officer’s Association, American Legion Post 379 and Missouri Western Gold Coat Club.

Charles was preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Mary Ann Lau; and sister Carol Spindler.

Survivors include Mary Beth, of the home; children, Elizabeth Long, Cindy McQuerry, Kim Catron (Donnie, Douglas Lau (Robin, David Lau (Kendra); sister, Mary Alice Hutton (Dr. Robert); 17 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren.

Farewell Services 10:00 A.M. Tuesday, St Paul Lutheran Church. Interment Memorial Park Cemetery. The family will gather with friends 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. Monday, Meierhoffer Funeral Home &amp; Crematory.



Charles A. Lau, 86, St. Joseph, Missouri, passed away Friday, December 13, 2019.He was born July 31, 1933 to Arthur and Laura (Ranfranz) Lau in St. Joseph, Missouri.Charles married Mary Beth True August 27, 1953.He was a committed Christian, and family member and ardent supporter of Mizzou.Charles was a member of St. Paul Lutheran Church, where he sang in the choir. He served in the Army artillery from 1956 to 1972, served as a member of St. Joseph city council and was Governor appointed Buchanan County Public Administrator. He worked as the business administrator for Structural Steel Company (29 yrs) and was a Missouri State Auditor. He was a member of the Missouri Alumni association, chairman of the 1980 St. Joseph Charter Commission, a high school football official for 35 years, coached boy’s baseball, served as a delegate to the 1972 Republican Convention. Charles was a member of the Officer’s Association, American Legion Post 379 and Missouri Western Gold Coat Club.Charles was preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Mary Ann Lau; and sister Carol Spindler.Survivors include Mary Beth, of the home; children, Elizabeth Long, Cindy McQuerry, Kim Catron (Donnie, Douglas Lau (Robin, David Lau (Kendra); sister, Mary Alice Hutton (Dr. Robert); 17 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren.Farewell Services 10:00 A.M. Tuesday, St Paul Lutheran Church. Interment Memorial Park Cemetery. The family will gather with friends 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. Monday, Meierhoffer Funeral Home &amp; Crematory.

Charles A. "Charlie" Lau  1933 - 2019



Diana S. Taylor, 75, St. Joseph, Missouri, passed away Wednesday, December 11, 2019.

She was born March 4, 1944 in New Jersey.

Diana was a 1962 graduate of Maryville High School, where she enjoyed drama club. She graduated from Northwest Missouri State University in 1967.

Diana began her social work career of 35 years, including being the Director of the Shelter for Abused Women in St. Joseph, Missouri.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Jim and Veronica (Treinen) Vawter; brother, James Vawter and friend, Charles “Bud” Buffey.

Survivors include her daughter, Natalie Taylor; siblings, Ted Vawter, Larry Vawter, Fran McClain; and uncle, Larry Treinen.

Natural Farewell under the direction of Meierhoffer Funeral Home &amp; Crematory.



Diana S. Taylor, 75, St. Joseph, Missouri, passed away Wednesday, December 11, 2019.She was born March 4, 1944 in New Jersey.Diana was a 1962 graduate of Maryville High School, where she enjoyed drama club. She graduated from Northwest Missouri State University in 1967.Diana began her social work career of 35 years, including being the Director of the Shelter for Abused Women in St. Joseph, Missouri.She was preceded in death by her parents, Jim and Veronica (Treinen) Vawter; brother, James Vawter and friend, Charles “Bud” Buffey.Survivors include her daughter, Natalie Taylor; siblings, Ted Vawter, Larry Vawter, Fran McClain; and uncle, Larry Treinen.Natural Farewell under the direction of Meierhoffer Funeral Home &amp; Crematory.

Diana S. Taylor  1944 - 2019



Madeline (Freedman) Hillsberg, 93, Bal Harbour, Florida, passed away Thursday, December 12, 2019.

She was born January 16, 1926 in St. Joseph, Missouri.

Madeline married Herbert Hillsberg February 11, 1945; he preceded her in death in 2013.

She was also preceded in death by son, Sanford Hillsberg.

Survivors include daughters, Vicki Filstein (Allen, Mindy Hillsberg; daughter-in-law, Penny Hillsberg; grandchildren, Marnie Filstein, Jamie Filstein, and Blake Epstein.

Private Interment at Shaare Sholem Cemetery, under the direction of Meierhoffer Funeral Home &amp; Crematory.



Madeline (Freedman) Hillsberg, 93, Bal Harbour, Florida, passed away Thursday, December 12, 2019.She was born January 16, 1926 in St. Joseph, Missouri.Madeline married Herbert Hillsberg February 11, 1945; he preceded her in death in 2013.She was also preceded in death by son, Sanford Hillsberg.Survivors include daughters, Vicki Filstein (Allen, Mindy Hillsberg; daughter-in-law, Penny Hillsberg; grandchildren, Marnie Filstein, Jamie Filstein, and Blake Epstein.Private Interment at Shaare Sholem Cemetery, under the direction of Meierhoffer Funeral Home &amp; Crematory.

Madeline (Freedman) Hillsberg  1926 - 2019



Inez Gilland, 93, St. Joseph, Missouri, passed away Thursday, December 12, 2019.

She was born November 7, 1926 in Gentry County, Missouri.

Inez was a member of Huffman United Methodist Church.

She was preceded in death by her parents, David and Bertha (Yadon) Gilland; brothers, Charles and Laverne Gilland; sister, Catherine Millikan.

Survivors include children, Sandra Gilland, Mary Ann Huff (B.J., Olin C. Van Deventer (Sue, Catherine Lindgren (Steve); 6 grandchildren; 9 great-grandchildren; and 2 nieces.

Farewell Services 1:00 P.M. Wednesday, Meierhoffer Funeral Home &amp; Crematory. Interment High Ridge Cemetery, Stanberry, Missouri. The family will gather with friends one hour prior to the service, Meierhoffer Funeral Home &amp; Crematory. In lieu of flowers the family requests donations to the American Heart Association or the American Diabetes Association. Online guest book and obituary at www.meierhoffer.com.



Inez Gilland, 93, St. Joseph, Missouri, passed away Thursday, December 12, 2019.She was born November 7, 1926 in Gentry County, Missouri.Inez was a member of Huffman United Methodist Church.She was preceded in death by her parents, David and Bertha (Yadon) Gilland; brothers, Charles and Laverne Gilland; sister, Catherine Millikan.Survivors include children, Sandra Gilland, Mary Ann Huff (B.J., Olin C. Van Deventer (Sue, Catherine Lindgren (Steve); 6 grandchildren; 9 great-grandchildren; and 2 nieces.Farewell Services 1:00 P.M. Wednesday, Meierhoffer Funeral Home &amp; Crematory. Interment High Ridge Cemetery, Stanberry, Missouri. The family will gather with friends one hour prior to the service, Meierhoffer Funeral Home &amp; Crematory. In lieu of flowers the family requests donations to the American Heart Association or the American Diabetes Association. Online guest book and obituary at www.meierhoffer.com.

Inez Gilland  1926 - 2019

Rebecca B. Hoskins, 63, of St. Joseph, passed away December 12, 2019.&nbsp;

She was born on July 20, 1956, the daughter of the late Jake and Winifred (Quint) Wright.&nbsp; Rebecca was a social worker for the State of Missouri.&nbsp;

Survivors: son, Shawn Hoskins and many extended family members and friends, who will miss her "heart of gold;" loving grandmother to two beautiful grandsons, Maximus Isiah and Maddox Xavier Hoskins.&nbsp; She will be truly missed.&nbsp;

Ms. Hoskins has been cremated under the direction of Heaton-Bowman-Smith &amp; Sidenfaden Chapel.&nbsp;

Rebecca B. Hoskins, 63, of St. Joseph, passed away December 12, 2019.&nbsp;She was born on July 20, 1956, the daughter of the late Jake and Winifred (Quint) Wright.&nbsp; Rebecca was a social worker for the State of Missouri.&nbsp;Survivors: son, Shawn Hoskins and many extended family members and friends, who will miss her "heart of gold;" loving grandmother to two beautiful grandsons, Maximus Isiah and Maddox Xavier Hoskins.&nbsp; She will be truly missed.&nbsp;Ms. Hoskins has been cremated under the direction of Heaton-Bowman-Smith &amp; Sidenfaden Chapel.&nbsp;

Rebecca B. Hoskins  1956 - 2019

Virginia "Rose" (Rockey) Howard, a long-time resident of rural Hiawatha,&nbsp;died Friday, Dec. 13, 2019.

She was born Aug. 3, 1926, to Oliver and Effie (Bollinger) Rockey in Robinson, Kansas.&nbsp;

Rose met her husband Eugene Howard at the movies, and the couple married Oct. 13, 1945 in El Paso, Texas.&nbsp; Rose and Gene lived in Alaska while he was in the Army and moved back to the family farm in rural Hiawatha where they raised three sons - Gary, Charles and Don - and helped raise their eight grandchildren on the same family farm. Rose worked for several years hanging wallpaper, and she retired from Flair Fold.&nbsp;

Rose loved growing plants. Her home was filled with all kinds of plants, and it was nothing out of the unusual to see her attempt to grow a seedling in her kitchen window. She also enjoyed traveling; she and Gene road their Harley to Alaska and traveled to Scotland. She loved riding motorcycles and was a member of Motor Maids; hosting several Motor Maids events in her home.&nbsp;

Rose was a member of the Travelling TeePees. She spent many winters in their fifth-wheel camper in Brownsville, TX. She, also, enjoyed crafting.&nbsp;

Above all, Rose loved her family. Her children and her grandchildren and great grandchildren brought her great joy. She enjoyed hosting her entire family and their friends every year for opening weekend of pheasant season.

Rose was preceded in death by her husband Gene; two sons Charles and Don; daughters-in-law Betty and Terry Howard; both parents, her mother and father-in-law Velma and Hollis Howard; an infant great granddaughter Allie Rose Boothe; and all seven brothers and sisters.&nbsp;

She is survived by her son Gary (Kathy) Howard of Hiawatha; grandchildren Tammy Howard, Charla (Nick) Adcock, Scott (Shelby) Howard, Hollis (Amy) Howard, Pat Howard, Keri (Andy) Bestwick, Robert (Crystal) Howard, Stephanie (Joe) Boothe; 17 great grandchildren, two great-great grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews and a lifetime’s worth of friends.&nbsp;

A celebration of Rose’s life is planned for 11 a.m. Tuesday, December 17, 2019, at First United Methodist Church of Hiawatha, with Rev. Andrew Finch officiating. Interment will follow at Mt. Hope Cemetery, Hiawatha.

Friends may call at the funeral home after 10 a.m. Monday. The family will meet with friends one hour prior to service at Church

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Church Memorial Fund, sent in care of the funeral home, 124 S 7th&nbsp;St., Hiawatha, 66434.

Virginia "Rose" (Rockey) Howard, a long-time resident of rural Hiawatha,&nbsp;died Friday, Dec. 13, 2019.She was born Aug. 3, 1926, to Oliver and Effie (Bollinger) Rockey in Robinson, Kansas.&nbsp;Rose met her husband Eugene Howard at the movies, and the couple married Oct. 13, 1945 in El Paso, Texas.&nbsp; Rose and Gene lived in Alaska while he was in the Army and moved back to the family farm in rural Hiawatha where they raised three sons - Gary, Charles and Don - and helped raise their eight grandchildren on the same family farm. Rose worked for several years hanging wallpaper, and she retired from Flair Fold.&nbsp;Rose loved growing plants. Her home was filled with all kinds of plants, and it was nothing out of the unusual to see her attempt to grow a seedling in her kitchen window. She also enjoyed traveling; she and Gene road their Harley to Alaska and traveled to Scotland. She loved riding motorcycles and was a member of Motor Maids; hosting several Motor Maids events in her home.&nbsp;Rose was a member of the Travelling TeePees. She spent many winters in their fifth-wheel camper in Brownsville, TX. She, also, enjoyed crafting.&nbsp;Above all, Rose loved her family. Her children and her grandchildren and great grandchildren brought her great joy. She enjoyed hosting her entire family and their friends every year for opening weekend of pheasant season.Rose was preceded in death by her husband Gene; two sons Charles and Don; daughters-in-law Betty and Terry Howard; both parents, her mother and father-in-law Velma and Hollis Howard; an infant great granddaughter Allie Rose Boothe; and all seven brothers and sisters.&nbsp;She is survived by her son Gary (Kathy) Howard of Hiawatha; grandchildren Tammy Howard, Charla (Nick) Adcock, Scott (Shelby) Howard, Hollis (Amy) Howard, Pat Howard, Keri (Andy) Bestwick, Robert (Crystal) Howard, Stephanie (Joe) Boothe; 17 great grandchildren, two great-great grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews and a lifetime’s worth of friends.&nbsp;A celebration of Rose’s life is planned for 11 a.m. Tuesday, December 17, 2019, at First United Methodist Church of Hiawatha, with Rev. Andrew Finch officiating. Interment will follow at Mt. Hope Cemetery, Hiawatha.Friends may call at the funeral home after 10 a.m. Monday. The family will meet with friends one hour prior to service at ChurchMemorial contributions are suggested to the Church Memorial Fund, sent in care of the funeral home, 124 S 7th&nbsp;St., Hiawatha, 66434.

Virginia "Rose" Howard  1926 - 2019

Francis B. "Frank" O'Malley, 90, of St. Joseph, Missouri passed away Wednesday, December 11, 2019, at his home surrounded by his loving family.

Frank was born on March 22, 1929 to the late Tom and Sarah (Fahey) O'Malley, Sr., who both emigrated separately from Ireland, making Frank a first generation Irish-American.&nbsp; He was the youngest of nine children and was born and raised in Chicago, Illinois.

Frank graduated from Fenwick High School in 1948.&nbsp; He then graduated with a bachelor's degree from St. Benedict College in Atchison, Kansas in 1952 and subsequently obtained his masters degree from Kansas State University in Manhattan, Kansas in 1960.

Frank married Bobbie Sue McCoole on November 25, 1954 at St. Benedict Catholic Church in Atchison, Kansas. They had three children: Pat, Kevin and Kathleen. Frank and Bobbie recently celebrated their sixty-five year anniversary.

Mr. O'Malley proudly served his country in the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict.&nbsp; He enjoyed a distinguished 33 year career in civil service, retiring in 1985 from his position in Washington, D.C. as the Director of the U.S. Armed Forces Morale, Welfare &amp; Recreation division. Throughout his career, Frank’s family resided in Atchison, Kansas; Manhattan, Kansas; Lebanon, Missouri; Columbus, Georgia and Alexandria, Virginia before finally settling in St. Joseph, Missouri in 1985.

After his retirement, Frank and his two sons acquired the Anheuser-Busch distributorship in St. Joseph. In 2005 Frank enjoyed watching the company that he helped found expand by buying the Anheuser-Busch wholesaler in Lawrence, Kansas, creating O’Malley Beverage of Kansas.

One of Frank's greatest passions in life was supporting his alma mater, Benedictine College, where he played football for all of his four years. His senior year, he was named NAIA All-American, team captain and president of the "B" Club.&nbsp; Frank returned to his alma mater as a member of the football coaching staff from 1954-1955.&nbsp; Frank was a member of the Emeritus Board of Directors for Benedictine College. In 1986, Frank and his firm, O'Malley Beverage, founded and sponsored the annual Michelob-Benedictine College Golf Tournament. The college bestowed several honors on Frank, including the Kansas Monk Award in 1989, the Cross of the Order of St. Benedict Award in February 1992 to both Frank and his wife, the Athletic Hall of Fame in 1996 and the Family of the Year Award in 2011.&nbsp; The O'Malley-McAllister Auditorium was named in 1996 in honor of long-time supporters Frank O'Malley and Mary Kay McAllister. The school’s football field was named O'Malley Field in Frank's honor.&nbsp; Through the years, Frank and his wife, Bobbie Sue, hosted numerous reunions for the Saint Benedict’s College and Mount Saint Scholastica College class of 1952 at the O'Malley Beverage facility in St. Joseph.&nbsp; All three of Frank and Bobbie's children, their daughter in-laws, numerous grandchildren and nieces and nephews would go on to graduate from Benedictine College as well.

Frank was very active and involved in numerous community organizations, was generous towards charitable fundraisers and was very proud of his Irish heritage and was a supporter of the Catholic faith, especially Bishop LeBlond High School and Benedictine College, as well as Special Olympics.

Frank was a member of Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church.&nbsp; He was also a member of the Knights of Columbus, the Knights of Malta, the Knights of the Holy Sepulcher, the Ancient Order of Hibernians, and the Rotary, Kiwanis and Lions Clubs. &nbsp;He also served on the US International Olympic Committee and as president of the St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce.

Frank is survived by his wife of the home, Bobbie Sue; sons, Pat O'Malley (Margaret); their sons, Michael and Mack O'Malley; Kevin O'Malley (Cocoa); their daughter Murphy and sons, Mike, Joe, John and Dan Bourneuf and daughter, Kathleen O'Malley-Boldt (Jim).

Frank was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Tom Jr., Chick, John and Joe O'Malley; sisters, Sally Rinehart, Agnes Dressler, Margaret "Peg" O'Malley and Grace Koath.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:00 AM Monday at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church, St. Joseph, MO. &nbsp;Interment will be at Mt. Olivet Cemetery.

Family to Receive Friends from 4:00 to 7:00 PM Sunday at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church, where a Parish Rosary will be recited at 7:00 PM. &nbsp;An Irish Wake will follow the Rosary.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Benedictine College - Frank O'Malley Scholarship Fund, 1020 N. Second St., Atchison, KS. 66002

Arrangements under the direction of Heaton-Bowman-Smith &amp; Sidenfaden Chapel.

Francis B. "Frank" O'Malley, 90, of St. Joseph, Missouri passed away Wednesday, December 11, 2019, at his home surrounded by his loving family.Frank was born on March 22, 1929 to the late Tom and Sarah (Fahey) O'Malley, Sr., who both emigrated separately from Ireland, making Frank a first generation Irish-American.&nbsp; He was the youngest of nine children and was born and raised in Chicago, Illinois.Frank graduated from Fenwick High School in 1948.&nbsp; He then graduated with a bachelor's degree from St. Benedict College in Atchison, Kansas in 1952 and subsequently obtained his masters degree from Kansas State University in Manhattan, Kansas in 1960.Frank married Bobbie Sue McCoole on November 25, 1954 at St. Benedict Catholic Church in Atchison, Kansas. They had three children: Pat, Kevin and Kathleen. Frank and Bobbie recently celebrated their sixty-five year anniversary.Mr. O'Malley proudly served his country in the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict.&nbsp; He enjoyed a distinguished 33 year career in civil service, retiring in 1985 from his position in Washington, D.C. as the Director of the U.S. Armed Forces Morale, Welfare &amp; Recreation division. Throughout his career, Frank’s family resided in Atchison, Kansas; Manhattan, Kansas; Lebanon, Missouri; Columbus, Georgia and Alexandria, Virginia before finally settling in St. Joseph, Missouri in 1985.After his retirement, Frank and his two sons acquired the Anheuser-Busch distributorship in St. Joseph. In 2005 Frank enjoyed watching the company that he helped found expand by buying the Anheuser-Busch wholesaler in Lawrence, Kansas, creating O’Malley Beverage of Kansas.One of Frank's greatest passions in life was supporting his alma mater, Benedictine College, where he played football for all of his four years. His senior year, he was named NAIA All-American, team captain and president of the "B" Club.&nbsp; Frank returned to his alma mater as a member of the football coaching staff from 1954-1955.&nbsp; Frank was a member of the Emeritus Board of Directors for Benedictine College. In 1986, Frank and his firm, O'Malley Beverage, founded and sponsored the annual Michelob-Benedictine College Golf Tournament. The college bestowed several honors on Frank, including the Kansas Monk Award in 1989, the Cross of the Order of St. Benedict Award in February 1992 to both Frank and his wife, the Athletic Hall of Fame in 1996 and the Family of the Year Award in 2011.&nbsp; The O'Malley-McAllister Auditorium was named in 1996 in honor of long-time supporters Frank O'Malley and Mary Kay McAllister. The school’s football field was named O'Malley Field in Frank's honor.&nbsp; Through the years, Frank and his wife, Bobbie Sue, hosted numerous reunions for the Saint Benedict’s College and Mount Saint Scholastica College class of 1952 at the O'Malley Beverage facility in St. Joseph.&nbsp; All three of Frank and Bobbie's children, their daughter in-laws, numerous grandchildren and nieces and nephews would go on to graduate from Benedictine College as well.Frank was very active and involved in numerous community organizations, was generous towards charitable fundraisers and was very proud of his Irish heritage and was a supporter of the Catholic faith, especially Bishop LeBlond High School and Benedictine College, as well as Special Olympics.Frank was a member of Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church.&nbsp; He was also a member of the Knights of Columbus, the Knights of Malta, the Knights of the Holy Sepulcher, the Ancient Order of Hibernians, and the Rotary, Kiwanis and Lions Clubs. &nbsp;He also served on the US International Olympic Committee and as president of the St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce.Frank is survived by his wife of the home, Bobbie Sue; sons, Pat O'Malley (Margaret); their sons, Michael and Mack O'Malley; Kevin O'Malley (Cocoa); their daughter Murphy and sons, Mike, Joe, John and Dan Bourneuf and daughter, Kathleen O'Malley-Boldt (Jim).Frank was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Tom Jr., Chick, John and Joe O'Malley; sisters, Sally Rinehart, Agnes Dressler, Margaret "Peg" O'Malley and Grace Koath.Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:00 AM Monday at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church, St. Joseph, MO. &nbsp;Interment will be at Mt. Olivet Cemetery.Family to Receive Friends from 4:00 to 7:00 PM Sunday at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church, where a Parish Rosary will be recited at 7:00 PM. &nbsp;An Irish Wake will follow the Rosary.In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Benedictine College - Frank O'Malley Scholarship Fund, 1020 N. Second St., Atchison, KS. 66002Arrangements under the direction of Heaton-Bowman-Smith &amp; Sidenfaden Chapel.

Francis B. "Frank" O'Malley  1929 - 2019

John Evan Sutherland, born November 5, 1943, of St. Joseph formerly of Sioux City, Iowa passed away Thursday December 5, 2019.

John is survived by his wife of 57 years &nbsp;Catherine (Kounas) , daughter Dawn (Tom) Villone, son John (Cathy) Sutherland and three grandkids, Nicholas, Zoe and Gage, brother Gary and sister Ann.

He was preceded in death by his son Eric, his parents and brother Wayne.

The family will receive friends 1:00 to 300 PM, December 15, 2019 at Heaton-Bowman-Smith &amp; Sidenfaden Chapel in St. Joseph.

A memorial service will follow the visitation at 3:00 PM also at our Chapel.

John Evan Sutherland, born November 5, 1943, of St. Joseph formerly of Sioux City, Iowa passed away Thursday December 5, 2019.John is survived by his wife of 57 years &nbsp;Catherine (Kounas) , daughter Dawn (Tom) Villone, son John (Cathy) Sutherland and three grandkids, Nicholas, Zoe and Gage, brother Gary and sister Ann.He was preceded in death by his son Eric, his parents and brother Wayne.The family will receive friends 1:00 to 300 PM, December 15, 2019 at Heaton-Bowman-Smith &amp; Sidenfaden Chapel in St. Joseph.A memorial service will follow the visitation at 3:00 PM also at our Chapel.

John Evan Sutherland  1943 - 2019

Ernest Monroe “Uncle Bill” Watson, 98, of Hiawatha, died early Friday, December 13, 2019, at Maple Heights Nursing Home in Hiawatha where he had been a resident in assisted living for a number of years.

He was born April 15, 1921, at Garden Grove, Iowa, one of two children of Lewis and Sylvia Watson. Ernest served in World War II, from 1942 until being discharged in 1946, at the rank of corporal.&nbsp; His early working years were spent working at City Park Dairy in Colorado.&nbsp; He later moved to Marshfield, Missouri where he spent farming for a number of years prior to moving to Chillicothe, Missouri.&nbsp; Ernest worked as a mechanic for Chrysler dealerships there for a total of 28 years, the last 9 years for the dealership in Chillicothe, retiring in 1982.

Mr. Watson was a VFW member at Marshfield, Missouri.

He married Mary “Waneta” Evans, May 10, 1945, at Littleton, Colorado. They have made Hiawatha their home since 2003.&nbsp; She died August 17, 2008.&nbsp; He was also preceded in death by his parents, a daughter Donna Lou Watson in October 1976, and a sister Pauline Crigger, and recently a niece and caregiver Beverly Lentz.

The family will meet with friends starting at 1:15 p.m. Tuesday at Chapel Oaks Funeral Home in Hiawatha, with a brief service to follow at 2. Interment will military honors will follow at the Highland Cemetery.

Friends may call at the funeral home after 10 a.m. Monday.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Brown County Veterans Honor Guard, sent in care of the funeral home.

Ernest Monroe “Uncle Bill” Watson, 98, of Hiawatha, died early Friday, December 13, 2019, at Maple Heights Nursing Home in Hiawatha where he had been a resident in assisted living for a number of years.He was born April 15, 1921, at Garden Grove, Iowa, one of two children of Lewis and Sylvia Watson. Ernest served in World War II, from 1942 until being discharged in 1946, at the rank of corporal.&nbsp; His early working years were spent working at City Park Dairy in Colorado.&nbsp; He later moved to Marshfield, Missouri where he spent farming for a number of years prior to moving to Chillicothe, Missouri.&nbsp; Ernest worked as a mechanic for Chrysler dealerships there for a total of 28 years, the last 9 years for the dealership in Chillicothe, retiring in 1982.Mr. Watson was a VFW member at Marshfield, Missouri.He married Mary “Waneta” Evans, May 10, 1945, at Littleton, Colorado. They have made Hiawatha their home since 2003.&nbsp; She died August 17, 2008.&nbsp; He was also preceded in death by his parents, a daughter Donna Lou Watson in October 1976, and a sister Pauline Crigger, and recently a niece and caregiver Beverly Lentz.Survivors include nieces and nephews.The family will meet with friends starting at 1:15 p.m. Tuesday at Chapel Oaks Funeral Home in Hiawatha, with a brief service to follow at 2. Interment will military honors will follow at the Highland Cemetery.Friends may call at the funeral home after 10 a.m. Monday.Memorial contributions are suggested to the Brown County Veterans Honor Guard, sent in care of the funeral home.

Ernest Monroe "Uncle Bill" Watson  1921 - 2019

Robert "Bob" Swafford, 74, of St. Joseph, passed away December 11, 2019.

Bob Swafford was born April 29, 1945 to the late Thomas and Isabel (Kirwan) Swafford in St. Joseph, MO.

He graduated from Christian Brothers High School and attended Missouri Western State College.&nbsp; He joined the U.S. Navy and received a Medical Discharge.

He married the love of his life, Rosemary Punzo, on July 15, 1978 in St. Joseph. Together, they enjoyed 41 years of marriage.

Bob worked at Alorica Call Center as a Telephone Representative. He attended St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church, where he was a Hospitality Minister for many years. And he enjoyed leather crafting and cheering for the Kansas City Chiefs and Mizzou.

Bob is survived by his wife, Rosemary; son, Ryan Swafford; daughters, Tracy (Brian) Van Belkum and Jennifer Swafford; brother, Tom (Dina) Swafford; sister Maureen (Bill) Asbell; granddaughters, Emery and Danika; and grandsons, Connor and Briar; all of St. Joseph.

Bob is preceded in death by his parents; step-mother, Jean Swafford; and an infant brother. &nbsp;

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 9:30 AM Monday, December 16, 2019 at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church. Interment at Mt. Olivet Cemetery. Rosary will be 6:30 PM Sunday, December 15 at Heaton-Bowman-Smith &amp; Sidenfaden Chapel . Family will receive friends following the Rosary until 8:30 PM.

The family has requested memorial donations be made to St. Francis Xavier Catholic School and Church.

Robert "Bob" Swafford, 74, of St. Joseph, passed away December 11, 2019.Bob Swafford was born April 29, 1945 to the late Thomas and Isabel (Kirwan) Swafford in St. Joseph, MO.He graduated from Christian Brothers High School and attended Missouri Western State College.&nbsp; He joined the U.S. Navy and received a Medical Discharge.He married the love of his life, Rosemary Punzo, on July 15, 1978 in St. Joseph. Together, they enjoyed 41 years of marriage.Bob worked at Alorica Call Center as a Telephone Representative. He attended St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church, where he was a Hospitality Minister for many years. And he enjoyed leather crafting and cheering for the Kansas City Chiefs and Mizzou.Bob is survived by his wife, Rosemary; son, Ryan Swafford; daughters, Tracy (Brian) Van Belkum and Jennifer Swafford; brother, Tom (Dina) Swafford; sister Maureen (Bill) Asbell; granddaughters, Emery and Danika; and grandsons, Connor and Briar; all of St. Joseph.Bob is preceded in death by his parents; step-mother, Jean Swafford; and an infant brother. &nbsp;Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 9:30 AM Monday, December 16, 2019 at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church. Interment at Mt. Olivet Cemetery. Rosary will be 6:30 PM Sunday, December 15 at Heaton-Bowman-Smith &amp; Sidenfaden Chapel . Family will receive friends following the Rosary until 8:30 PM.The family has requested memorial donations be made to St. Francis Xavier Catholic School and Church.

Obituaries