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Obituaries Archives for 2025-04

Janet Lynn Deck,

Janet Lynn Deck, age 78, of Independence, Kansas passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, April 26, 2025. 

 

Janet was born on January 25, 1947, in Gardner, Kansas to Donald and Roberta (Cohee) Johnson.  She earned her high school diploma and became a Licensed Practical Nurse, spending her life taking care of others, working at several of the nursing homes in southeast Kansas throughout her career.  Janet enjoyed going to yard sales and casinos.  She especially liked to travel; she loved to see the mountains and visit Tennessee. 

 

Surviving to cherish her memory are her sisters, Sona Swallow and husband, David of Augusta, Georgia, Julie North of Independence, Kansas, numerous nieces, nephews, many extended relatives and close friends.  Janet was preceded in death by her parents, Donald and Roberta Johnson, husband, Randy Deck and by her sister, Carol Canady. 

 

Following Janet’s wishes, cremation has taken place under the direction of David W. Barnes Funeral Home in Coffeyville, Kansas.  No public services are scheduled at this time. 

 

To leave a condolence for the family online, visit Janet’s memorial page at www.dwbfh.com

 

John Edwin Richards, Jr.

John Edwin Richards, Jr., 86, of Coffeyville passed away peacefully on Sunday, April 20, 2025, at his home.

 

He was born on July 4, 1938, in Coffeyville, Kansas, to John Edwin, Sr. and Marcella Mae (Morris) Richards. John grew up and attended school in Coffeyville graduating from Field Kindley High School.

 

He married Bonnie Laney, on August 29, 1988. Following their marriage they made their home in Coffeyville.

 

Prior to his retirement, John was a skilled machinist at Wheatley Valve Company and Spears Manufacturing Company both in Caney where he worked for many years. His craftsmanship and dedication to his trade were widely recognized and respected. After retirement, John continued his lifelong love of motorcycling and gardening.

 

Survivors include his wife, Bonnie of the home; two daughters, Cheryl Richards and Pamela Sue Cepero and her husband Ralph; seven grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren, each of whom brought him immeasurable joy.

 

He was preceded in death by his father, John Sr., and his mother, Marcella Richards.

 

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, April 29, 2025, at Holy Name Catholic Church in Coffeyville, with Father James Schibi officiating.  Inurnment will follow in Calvary Cemetery in Coffeyville.

 

To leave a message for the family please visit www.dwbfh.com

 

David W. Barnes Funeral Home in Coffeyville is in charge of arrangements.

Karen Sue Tremain

Karen Sue Tremain, 72, of Havana, Kansas was called home to be with the Lord on Wednesday, April 23rd, 2025 at her home.

 

Karen was born in Coffeyville, Kansas on December 22nd, 1952. She was born to Carl and Margaret (VanAusdall) Wallace.

 

She attended Coffeyville school system and graduated from Field Kindley High School in 1970. Then she went on to Wichita, Kansas to attend business school returning to Coffeyville in 1972 and marrying Jim Hanna.  To this union was born Rebecca (Hanna) Brake and Sol Hanna.  They were married 10 years.

 

On February 21, 1991, she then married Michael Lynn Tremain making their home in Havana, KS, where they enjoyed farm life.

 

Karen worked in the banking industry for 49 years and retiring as Assistant Vice President of Community National Bank out of Caney, KS.

 

Karen was a avid reader, enjoyed crocheting lovely afghans for everyone and spending time with her grandkids. 

 

Karen is survived by her husband, Michael Lynn Tremain of Havana, Kansas, her mother in law, Mary Ann Tremain of Havana, KS, sister, Sandy Hanks, of Dewey, OK, her daughter, Rebecca (Hanna) Brake (Darren) of Tyro, KS, her son, Sol Hanna (Robyn) of Coffeyville, KS, grandchildren, Chase Brake (Jaycee) of Bartlesville, OK, Chance Brake (Cali) of Tyro, KS, Chandler Brake of Tyro, KS, Dillon Kaminska of Derby, KS, Dani Hanna (Tyler) of Independence, KS, Sol Michael Hanna of Omaha, NE, great grandchildren: Elaina, Chasin, Beau, and Charli Brake.

 

She was proceeded in death by her parents, Carl Wallace, Margaret Standeford, and father-in-law James Tremain.

 

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, April 26th, 2025, at the Tyro Christian Church at 2 pm with Allan Swinson officiating.

 

Visitation will be held that same day at 1:00 p.m. at the Tyro Christian Church.

 

In lieu flowers the family asks for donations to be made payable to the Tyro Christian Church.  These may be left at the funeral home or mailed to David W. Barnes Funeral Home, 306 N. Cline Rd., Coffeyville, KS 67337.

 

To leave a message for the family, please visit www.dwbfh.com

 

Helen Christina Vargas

Helen Christina Vargas, age 93, passed away on Wednesday, April 16, 2025 at Asbury Village in Coffeyville, Kansas. 

 

Helen was born on November 29, 1931 in Burden, Kansas to Joseph and Sabina Magana.  She was kind and caring to everyone she met, she worked at CRMC as a nurse’s aide for several years before transferring to the surgery department until her retirement.  She also belonged to the women’s police auxiliary.  Helen was a long-time member of Holy Name Catholic Church.  She enjoyed playing baseball, fishing, camping, crocheting, completing crossword puzzles and word searches. 

 

Surviving to honor her memory are her children, Jesse Vargas and wife, Jeanette, Steven Martinez, Linda Wintjen, Bernie Vargas and wife, Toni, Marty Vargas; grandchildren, Michelle (Michael) Coons, Bobby (Nicole) Vargas, Isaac, Brent, Stephanie, Anna Males, Lucas (Chelsea) Vargas, Marti Vargas, Bridgette (Buckley) Wright, Brandon (Stori) Vincent; fifteen great grandchildren; three great-great grandchildren, sister, Lupe (Tony) Topia along with numerous extended family and many friends.  Helen was preceded in death by her parents, Joseph and Sabina Magana; infant son, Jerry; grandson, Nathan Vargas; brothers, Daniel, Vincent and Paul Maldonado; sisters, Mary Maldonado and Carmen Sanchez. 

 

Following Helen’s wishes, cremation has taken place under the direction of David W. Barnes Funeral Home in Coffeyville.

 

The Rosary followed by Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, May 3, 2025 at Holy Name Catholic Church in Coffeyville, with Father James Schibi officiating.  Inurnment will take place at a later date at Saint Mary’s Cemetery in Winfield, Kansas. 

 

The family suggests memorial contributions can be made to the Holy Name Altar Society; these may be left with the funeral home or mailed in care of David W. Barnes Funeral Home 306 N. Cline Rd. Coffeyville, KS 67337. 

 

To leave a condolence for the family online, visit Helen’s memorial page at www.dwbfh.com

 

Jason "Jay" Ellsworth Watson,

We say a heartfelt goodbye to Jason "Jay" Ellsworth Watson, who, much like a car at one of his favorite car shows, sped off into the great beyond on April 17, 2025. Born in Independence, KS, on September 10, 1975, he got his start in life with a bang that was heard all the way to Coffeyville, Kansas, where he resided for 49 years. Jason was a funny, supportive, and dedicated man, who had a knack for turning the mundane into a comedy sketch. Ever the joker, he was also known as "Big Jason" - a title he held with pride, not only for his larger-than-life personality but also for his love of all things large and automotive.

 

Jason, a dedicated worker at Thompson Brothers for ten years, was a master of propane and propane accessories. There was no gas like his gas. No pun intended - they named a color after him at Thompsons, "Watson Blue." When he wasn't making the world a brighter place through his work and humor, Jason channeled his love and dedication into his family and community. He was a Boy Scout, an Eagle Scout, and a tireless volunteer at Coffeyville First Nazarene, coach for various sports and various local organizations. He was always the first to roll up his sleeves and lend a hand, whether at the Coffeyville celebration or watching his beloved grandchildren on the weekends. Indeed, "Watson Blue" wasn't just a color, but a beacon of his loving kindness.

 

As it says in the Bible, Jason truly lived by the verse in Proverbs 17:22, "A joyful heart is good medicine." He was a man who found joy in serving others, and his laughter was the best kind of medication - one that left you feeling better, no matter your ailment. Jason is survived by his wife, Jenny Watson married December 22, 1997 in Miami Oklahoma(27 years); his father, James Watson; his daughter Kim Meek and son-in-law Lane along with their two children his grandkids Michael Dean and Levi Mason; his son Jason Watson (future daughter-in-law Sam Hunt); his son Aaron Watson;  his daughter, Emily Watson (future son-in-law John McGlothlin); Brothers Curt Foster, Michael Foster and Cortney Gehrs (Mary); sister-in-law Jeanie; Brother-in-law Ronnie; Nieces Kay, Rose, Jessica, Allyson and Alyssa; his many cousins Sarah, Justin, Nathan, Jesse, and Marylyn. He is preceded in death by his mother, Susan Watson; Brother Lance Sayer; Aunt Robin; Mother and Father-in-law Ronald and Sandra Brooks.

 

A visitation with the family present to greet friends will take place at David W. Barnes Funeral Home in Coffeyville on Wednesday, April 22, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m.  Following Jason’s wishes, cremation will take place under the direction of David W. Barnes Funeral Home after the visitation.

 

A Memorial Service will be held by the family at the First Nazarene Church in Coffeyville on Saturday, May 3, 2025,at 1:00 p.m.  Pastor Luke Letsinger will officiate.

 

Jason's life was a turbo-charged ride, filled with laughter, love, dedication, and service. While we are saddened by his departure, we rejoice in the mark he has left on our hearts and our community. We invite you to share your memories of Jason and upload photos to his memorial page. Let us remember him as he was - a man of humor, love, and dedication, who made our world a little brighter and a lot funnier.

Ted Pierce

Ted Pierce was born in Edna, Kansas on November 23, 1940 to Gerald and Helen Pierce.

He married his one and only Phyllis Jean Lafon on September 20, 1958. They shared 66 years of marriage together.

Ted had many different jobs as a young man from hauling milk to working in a rock quarry.

Him and his father (Gerald) started a pest control company in 1955 (Pierce & Son Exterminators) and it eventually became his way of providing for his growing family, which he worked adamantly until 1998. The business is still operating to this day by his youngest son Bryan and wife Emily.

Ted's greatest passion was RV traveling and fishing with his wife Phyllis. They enjoyed many years of seeing what was over the next hill together.

Ted knew no stranger or friend in need of any kind and had a brilliant way of just figuring it out what every it may be.

He strived for perfection in all that he did. Ted was a Mason and was active at Zeredatha Lodge 189 of St. Joseph, Missouri for many years. He earned Worshipful Master in 1988.

He was preceded in death by his parents, stepfather (Chuck Spencer) sister Jan Whittenburg and brother-in-law Sonny Lafon.

He leaves behind his loving wife of 66 years Phyllis sisters Martha Lain, Cookie (Reta) Waltrip, Connie (Roger) Covey, Cindy Lafon half-brothers Jackie Pierce, Troy Pierce and his children Teddy (Diane) Pierce, Kim (Larry) Donaldson, Bryan (Emily) Pierce, grandchildren Tiffany (Shawn) Blacketer, Dalton (Andrea) Bradley, Chance Donaldson, Gabriele Pierce, Brody Pierce, Ryder Pierce, Jacob Bradley and great grandchildren Sophie, Sadie, Brayden, Ellie and Eli, and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, April 25, 2025 at 2 pm at Ford-Wulf-Bruns Chapel, 2405 Woodland Ave., in Coffeyville, Kansas. The family invites friends to call from Noon until service time at 2pm also at the chapel. Evangelist David Bycroft will be officiating. Ted will be laid to rest in Restlawn Memorial Park. To leave an online message of condolence, share a memory with the family or view live streaming of his service under his obituary tab visit www.fordwulfbrunschapel.com

He will be greatly missed by all that knew him. His last words to family or friends were: "If you need anything just give me a hol

Linda Gayle Plute

Linda Gayle Plute, age 81, of rural Coffeyville, Kansas passed away peacefully at her home on Sunday, April 20, 2025.

 

Linda was born on August 27, 1943, in Morrilton, Arkansas to Edward and Stella (Rainwater) Bearden.  She grew up in southeast Kansas where she attended local schools and earned her high school diploma.

 

On August 19, 1961, she was united in marriage to Donald “Don” Plute in Liberty, Kansas.  The couple made their home in rural Coffeyville where they raised their two children, Russell and Christina.

 

Linda filled her days taking care of her family and home.  She was a generous and caring woman and always helped those in need.  Linda was a volunteer for the local Genesis Food Pantry and Harry Hynes Memorial Hospice; she often made prayer shawls for hospice patients as well.  Linda was a longtime member of the Angola United Methodist Church.  Her hobbies included gardening, mowing the yard and crocheting.

 

Surviving to cherish her memory is her loving husband, Don Plute of the home; son, Russell Plute and wife, Rhonda of Coffeyville, Kansas; daughter, Christina Acridge and husband, Chris of Coffeyville, Kansas; grandchildren, Matthew Plute and wife, Renee, Rebecca Plute, Stonewall Acridge, Bethany Shinkle and husband, Mike; great grandchildren, Atticus and Willow Plute; brother, Roger Boyer and wife, Carol of Missouri; sister, Janie Wells of Missouri; along with numerous extended family members and friends.  Linda was preceded in death by her parents, Edward and Stella Bearden; sisters, Marlene Thompson and Sharon Case.

 

Graveside Services will be held on Friday, April 25, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at Fairview Cemetery in Coffeyville, Kansas.  The service will be officiated by Terry Ward.

 

The family suggests memorial contributions can be made to Genesis or Harry Hynes Hospice; these may be left with the funeral home or mailed in care of David W. Barnes Funeral Home 306 N. Cline Rd. Coffeyville, KS 67337.

 

To leave a condolence for the family online, visit Linda’s memorial page at www.dwbfh.com

 

The family has entrusted funeral arrangements to David W. Barnes Funeral Home in Coffeyville.

Mary Edith Bodenhamer (Rutter),

Mary Edith Bodenhamer (Rutter), age 92, passed away peacefully on April 9, 2025 surrounded by family and loved ones. She was born on November 29, 1932, in Parsons, Kansas to Raymond and Dorothy Rutter of Edna, Kansas. Mary spent most of her life in the communities of Edna and Coffeyville, where she built a life centered on faith, family, and love.

 

Mary graduated from Edna High School and began her career as a telephone operator for Southwestern Bell, a job she took great pride in. Later she worked at New-Way Foodliner in Coffeyville for 20 years where she made a lasting impression on coworkers and customers alike.

 

Mary was a devoted Christian whose unwavering faith was a guiding light throughout her life. She had a natural gift for making things beautiful, and her talent for decorating brought joy and warmth to every space she touched. She especially loved hosting family gatherings and holidays, but had a special place in her heart for Christmas, which she made magical every year.  Her home was always a place of comfort, filled with the love she had for her family and others.

 

She was a cherished mother, sister, and grandmother—roles she held with deep pride and endless love. Mary’s greatest joy was her family, and she poured her heart into creating memories that will be treasured forever. Her kindness, grace, and quiet strength left a lasting impression on all who knew her.

 

Mary was preceded in death by her late husband, Wayne Hittle, her parents, Raymond and Dorothy Rutter, her sister, Donna Rutter, her brother, Richard Rutter, her lifelong companion, Dale Woods, her granddaughter, Jamie Morse, and her granddaughter, Lindsey Bodenhamer. Though she is no longer with us, her legacy of love and faith lives on in the hearts of those who were blessed to know her.

 

She is survived by her son, Richard (Rick) Bodenhamer, her daughter, Karen Gavrilys and her husband Theodore (Ted) Gavrilys, her grandchildren, Sean Foley and his wife Megan Foley, Brandi Bodenhamer, Kelli Manning and her husband Jason Manning, her cherished great-grandchildren, and many caregivers and loved ones.

 

A small graveside service will be held on Friday, April 25 at 1:00pm at Elm Grove Cemetery located on State Highway 101, Edna, Kansas 67342, where family and friends will gather to honor her life and lay her to rest. At Mary’s request, cremation has taken place under the direction of Ford-Wulf-Bruns Chapel. 

 

 

 

“…I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die…” John 11:25

 

 

 

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the dedicated caregivers and staff at Medicalodges Coffeyville, whose compassion and care meant so much during Mary’s final years.

 

 

 

She will be dearly missed and forever remembered for the beauty she brought to the world, the faith she lived by, and the love she gave so freely.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Julia "Julie" Ann (Wallace) Blaich,

Julia “Julie” Ann (Wallace) Blaich, 83, of Coffeyville passed away Friday, April 11, 2025, at her home with her family at her side.

 

She was born on July 12, 1941, in Kansas City, Missouri to Opal and David E. Wallace. Julie grew up and attended school in several different locations where her father was stationed with the U.S. Navy, she graduated from high school in Key West, Florida. 

 

After graduating from high school, she attended nursing school at Research Hospital in Kansas City.  While in nursing school, she met Warren Blaich, a dental student. After their marriage in 1961 they moved to California where Dr. Blaich served in the U.S. Army. In 1964 the family moved to Coffeyville where Dr. Blaich established his dental practice.

 

Julie was very active in the Coffeyville Community. She was a member of Beta Sigma Phi for over 45 years and Chapter DR, PEO for 30 years. She dedicated many years to the Coffeyville Historical Society, and Friends of the Mansion.  She was involved in New Beginnings Arts and Crafts, taught art classes at Cultural Arts and served as Picture Lady. Julie was an accomplished artist and enjoyed china painting, gardening, and playing bridge. She was involved in PTA, Campfire Girls and Boy Scouts as her children grew up.  She was an original member of Tuesday Coffee, which has been meeting for 47 years.

 

Julie and Warren enjoyed extensive traveling on road trips and cruises throughout the United States, Mexico and Canada.

 

Survivors include her husband Dr. Warren Blaich of the home; her children LeAnn Hale of Pittsburg, Kansas, Jerry (Edie) Blaich of Fayetteville, Arkansas, Dr. Gary (Lorene) Blaich of Coffeyville and Steve (Tammy) Blaich of Coffeyville; her grandchildren, Lauren Hale, Scott (Sarah) Hale, Mason Blaich, Presley Blaich, Julianne Blaich, Annallen Blaich, Kenton Blaich, and Kendall Blaich, and step-grandchildren Patrick Holybee, and Paul Holybee; and six great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her sister Tirzah Barlow of Central Point, Oregon.

 

She was preceded in death by her parents Opal and David Wallace; her in-law Bernie and Eunice Blaich; sister Debbie Weizenegger; her son-in-law Todd Hale and step-grandson Carl Holybee.

 

Following Julie’s wishes cremation has taken place under the direction of David W. Barnes Funeral Home in Coffeyville.

 

A Celebration of Julie’s life will be announced at a later date.

 

The family suggests memorials in Julia’s memory can be left to the Coffeyville Public Library; contributions can be left with or mailed in care of David W. Barnes Funeral Home, 306 North Cline Road, Coffeyville, KS 67337.

 

To leave a condolence for the family online, visit Julia’s memorial page at www.dwbfh.com

 

Glenna Dawn (Lewis) Kuehn

Glenna Dawn (Lewis) Kuehn age 81, of South Coffeyville, Oklahoma, passed away on April 9, 2025, at The Journey Home in Bartlesville, Oklahoma. She was born on February 12, 1944, in Wichita, Kansas, to Glen and Marjorie (Christenson) Lewis.

 

Glenna grew up in Wichita with her parents and two brothers, Richard and David. She attended school in Wichita and was a graduate of Wichita Heights High School, finishing her studies there in 1962.

 

 

 

On July 14, 1973, she married Alvin Leon Kuehn, the love of her life, in a ceremony at Ascension Lutheran Church. The couple built a beautiful life together in Wichita before later moving to the South Coffeyville area, where they continued to reside.

 

Throughout her life, Glenna worked at Nice’s flower and greenhouse, showcasing her love for nature and beauty. After relocating, she continued to embrace her faith, having been baptized and confirmed in the St. Pauls Lutheran faith.

 

Glenna enjoyed cooking and had a special affection for her small terriers, who brought her joy. She and Leon shared many happy moments together, delighting in trips to Branson, visiting flea markets, and attending auctions.

 

 

 

Glenna is survived by her husband Leon of the home, one brother Richard Lewis (Letrice), two step sons Ernie Kuehn of Wann, Oklahoma and Andrew Kuehn of Wichita, two brothers-in-laws Wayne and Jerry Kuehn and one sister-in-law Karen Johnson (Rick), special nieces who have provided extended care Sue Sanford (David) and Kim Lofts (Jeff) and numerous additional nieces and nephews.

 

 

 

Glenna is preceded in death by her parents, and her brother, David, sister-in-law Sandy Kuehn and brother-in-law Frank Pfister. Her legacy of love and kindness will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew her. She will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all.

 

 

 

Funeral services will be held at 10am on Tuesday, April 15, 2025 at St. Paul's Lutheran Church, 506 W 9th St, Coffeyville with Pastor Jon Franson officiating. Glenna will be laid to rest in Fairview Cemetery. The family will receive friends on Monday, April 14, 2025 at Ford-Wulf-Bruns Chapel, 2405 Woodland Ave., in Coffeyville from 5 to 7 pm. The family has requested memorial contributions to be made payable to the St. Pauls Lutheran Church or The Journey Home and they may be left in care of the chapel. To leave a message of condolence or share a memory visit her obituary page at www.fordwulfbruns.com

 

 

 

 

Jerry Dean Gruber

Jerry Dean Gruber, 82, of Coffeyville, Kansas, passed away on Monday, March 31, 2025, at Medicalodges on Midland in Coffeyville.

 

 

 

Born as Eldon Dean Lamb to Eldon and June (McNabb) Lamb on November 17, 1942 in Pauls Valley, Oklahoma, Jerry moved to Coffeyville with his family when he was just three years old. After his parents' divorce, he was adopted by his stepfather, which led to his name change to Jerry Dean Gruber. He attended Coffeyville schools and graduated from Field Kindley Memorial High School.

 

 

 

At the age of nineteen, Jerry ventured to Colorado to explore new opportunities, where he worked for a wheat harvest company and eventually started his own painting business. He also spent many years employed at a casino. During his time in Colorado, he met and married a young woman, and together they welcomed three wonderful children into the world. Although the marriage ended in divorce, Jerry's love for his children remained strong throughout his life.

 

 

 

In 2002, Jerry returned to Coffeyville following a semi-retirement. It was during this time that he reconnected with Sue Samuels, the sister of a childhood friend from First Nazarene Church. Their rekindled friendship blossomed into a loving companionship that brought joy to both their lives.

 

 

 

Jerry enjoyed visiting casinos and traveling with Sue, particularly to the scenic mountainous regions of Colorado. In addition to these hobbies, he took great pleasure in carpentry, building various projects, and, of course, indulging in well-deserved afternoon naps. Jerry has always had a foundress for dogs, but his Josie has been his best friend and dog ever.

 

 

 

He leaves behind his beloved companion Sue, his three children, and Sue’s children, whom he cherished as his own: LeeAnn Roig (Wayne), Tim Park, along with Sue’s grandchildren Tyler Roig (Gracee), Trevor Roig (Lexy), Zach Roig, Chelcie (Simon) Foulk, Brandon Foulk (Alicia), and Rusty Park (Hallie). He is also survived by five great-grandchildren, four brothers, and two sisters and his best four-legged friend Josie. He was preceded in death by his parents and Sue’s son, Terry Park.

 

 

 

In loving memory of Jerry, a memorial service will be held at Coffeyville First Nazarene Church, 2300 W. 1st. Street in Coffeyville on April 26, 2025, at 1 PM. The service will be officiated by Pastor Luke Letsinger. Ford-Wulf-Bruns Chapel has been entrusted with the cremation arrangements. Jerry will be remembered fondly by all who knew him.  To share a fond memory or leave an online condolence visit his obituary page at www.fordwulfbrunschapel.com

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Ronald Ray Hensley

Ronald Ray Hensley of Coffeyville, Kansas, passed away peacefully at home on March 27, 2025, at the age of 84. Born June 18, 1940, to Bill and Lela Hensley, Ron dedicated his life to all things motorcycles; whether it was buying, selling, riding, racing, or fixing them, he embraced the freedom and camaraderie that the open road offered. His infectious enthusiasm and wealth of knowledge brought joy to friends and fellow riders alike, leaving a legacy of adventure that will be cherished by all who knew him.

 

Though many of his greatest adventures were on two wheels, some of his most prized moments were at home with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren who he loved immensely. Ron and Kay hosted countless holiday gatherings where they both enjoyed feeding and spoiling their family.

 

A Coffeyville native, Ron graduated Field Kindley Memorial High School in 1958 before marrying Jan (Griffin) Juel in 1959. He graduated Coffeyville Community College in 1960 before then serving in the National Guard. Together, Ron and Jan raised three sons. The couple divorced in 1981, and Ron married Kay Andres on June 27, 1990. Ron and Kay made their home in Coffeyville where they lived together until his passing.

 

Ron worked for Western Southern Life Insurance, Pepsi Bottling Plant, and the Coffeyville Fire Department before owning Hensley Hodaka and Southeast Suzuki. He later worked for Frito Lay, Coca-Cola, and Nowata Printing, where he retired in June of 2002. And while he spoke well of his many endeavors, Ron was most proud of his namesake, Hensley Hodaka (later Southeast Suzuki), a motorcycle dealership he owned from 1970 until 1982.

 

In 1995 Ron created and organized the S.E.K. Bikers Toy Run, an event that sees as many as 130 bikers participate in a given year. The gathering, now in its 29th year, asks participating bikers to donate Christmas gifts to Montgomery County children who might otherwise go without.

 

Ron’s love of motorcycles began in west Coffeyville where, as a teenager, he fell in love with a Cushman motorcycle. He later purchased and raced a Pirelli before then expanding his collection and eventually turning his passion into a career. An adventurer by nature, Ron never needed a map and was known to chart his route based solely on landmarks, especially those that served good food. Tell Ron where you were headed and he could suggest where to stop for breakfast, lunch, and dinner along the way.

 

Ron was preceded in death by his parents and six siblings, Wilma Henry, Lilbern (Sparky), J.E., Dean, JoAnn Sumner, and Robert, and by his daughter-in-law, Paula (Sherwood) Hensley.

 

He is survived by his children, Rick (Amy), Gary, Terry (Maria), Angi (Barry) Price, and Jason (Melissa) Blex, as well as fifteen grandchildren and twenty great-grandchildren.

 

A celebration of life will be held at Cedar Bluff Campgrounds in Coffeyville on April 18 at 11am. Donations in Ron’s honor can be made to the S.E.K. Bikers 30th annual Toy Run (Salvation Army).

 

Following Ron’s wishes, cremation has taken place under the direction of David W. Barnes Funeral Home in Coffeyville, Kansas. 

 

To leave a condolence for the family online, visit Ron's memorial page at www.dwbfh.com

 

James (Jim) Frederick Lawson

James (Jim) Frederick Lawson, age 89 passed away on Friday, April 4, 2025 at Advena Living in Cherryvale, Kansas.

 

 

 

Jim was born on June 6, 1935 in Cherryvale, Kansas to Charles Burton Lawson and Fern Darling Lawson.  Attended school in Cherryvale KS, graduating in 1954 from Cherryvale High School, attended Coffeyville Community College on a football scholarship from 1954 to 1956 and graduated from CCC.  James also served in the US Armed Forces National Guard unit for six years when he received his honorable discharge.

 

 

 

James married Beverly Jane Kelly on June 3, 1956 in Cherryvale, KS and then moved to Coffeyville KS, where they currently reside. The couple had three children, Julie, Tony and Kelly.

 

 

 

James dedicated 42 years of service and retired from serving his community in the natural gas industry, first employed by United Cities Gas last known as Atmos Energy. In his spare time, he enjoyed fishing, playing industrial league basketball and softball, and he coached little league baseball and youth basketball for many years. Good times were spent at the bowling alley and golf course, two things he got to enjoy for years with his son. He also worked the chains for FKHS and CCC football for many years. One of his favorite past times was watching westerns and sports, he was an avid Jayhawks, Chiefs, and Royals fan! He especially loved seeing his grandchildren play in all their sports and activities and made as many as he could. A lot of time was spent on the road, seeing his grandkids in their sports, just cruising around town, camping in the camper, and just traveling all over with Beverly. Once he stopped driving his favorite activities were sneaking out on the lawn mower or in the golf cart. James was a member of the Methodist Church in Coffeyville where he served on several committees.

 

 

 

James is survived by his wife Beverly of 69 year and friendship of over 80 years, he is also survived by three children, Julie Tosh of Ponca City OK, Tony (Debby) Lawson of Coffeyville and Kelly Alban (Brett Radcliff) of Independence KS. Six Grandchildren, Doug Tosh and Amanda (Robert) James of Ponca City, Antonia (Eric) Fritz of Coffeyville, Gabrielle (Austin) Thompson of Phoenix AZ, John Alban of Topeka KS, Matt (Danielle) Alban of Coffeyville. Great grandchildren, Keyln and Ryder Wilson, Kylee, Keira and Aliyah Fritz of Coffeyville, Luka and Isla Thompson of Phoenix, Thane McFall and Corbin Alban of Coffeyville, Jensen and Amelia James, Karter Tosh and Kaidence Hartl of Ponca City.

 

 

 

James was preceded in death by his father Charles Burton Lawson and mother Fern Darling Lawson and stepmother Faye Lawson, brothers Burton Jr, Wayne, Gary and sister Yolanda and son-in-law Jim Tosh.

 

 

 

A Celebration of Life service will be held on Friday, April 11, 2025 at 2pm Ford-Wulf-Bruns Chapel, 2405 Woodland Ave., Coffeyville.  The family will receive friends from 1pm until service time at the same location.  Jim will be laid to rest in Restlawn Memorial Park Cemetery.  To leave a message of condolence, share a memory or view the live streaming of the service visit his obituary page at www.fordwulfbrunschapel.com

 

 

 

Stephen Dale Sprague

Stephen Dale Sprague, 77, of Coffeyville, Kansas, passed away peacefully with his loved ones by his side at Medicalodges on Midland in Coffeyville.

 

Born on June 30, 1947, in Coffeyville to Warren and Verna (Hills) Sprague, Stephen spent his formative years in the area and graduated from Field Kindley Memorial High School. In 1971, he married Peggy Peyton, and together they welcomed three daughters into their family. Despite their later divorce, Stephen and Peggy always shared a deep love for their children.

 

Throughout his working life, Stephen held various positions, concluding his career with 14 years as a driver for Renzenberger , where he transported train crews to their resting locations.

 

Stephen was a passionate fan of the Kansas City Royals and the Kansas City Chiefs, eagerly looking forward to watching the Royals play this summer. He also cherished long walks with his daughter, Melissa, which brought him great joy.

 

Stephen is survived by his daughters, Melissa Kastler and her husband Marcus, Stephanie Davis and her life partner Henry Gregory; granddaughters, Katelin and Brieanna Shaffer, Amanda Davis; and grandsons, Nathan Dominick, Uriel Corona, Wesley Shaffer. He also leaves behind great-grandchildren Blaze Maggard and Stryker Bridges, his sister-in-law Susie Sprague, and sister Patsy Heetderks. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Don Sprague, and his daughter Melinda Sprague.

 

Cremation has been handled by Ford-Wulf-Bruns Chapel. The family will host a Celebration of Life on April 5, 2025, at 4 PM at the Church of Christ, located at 1005 Siggins St, Coffeyville, KS 67337. in honor of Stephens love of the Kansas City Royals and Kansas City Chiefs the family is asking you wear your Royals or Chiefs attire or simply wear royal blue or red . In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be directed to the funeral home to help defray expenses.

 

To leave an online message of condolence or share a memory of Stephen, please visit www.fordwulfbrunschapel.com

 

Ramona Clara Childress

Ramona Clara Childress 104 of Cypress, Texas longtime former resident of Coffeyville, Kansas passed away on March 30, 2025.

 Ramona was born on Oct 10, 1920 in Ramona OK to William and Mabel Ripley.

Ramona is survived by her daughter Patsy Burdett, and eight grandchildren.  She was preceded in death by her parents, brother Orville Ripley, husband Eugene Childress, daughters Connie Thomas and Sharon Kudrick.

Funeral services celebrating Ramona’s life and legacy of love will be held on Monday, April 7, 2025 at 2pm at Ford-Wulf-Bruns Chapel, 2405 Woodland Ave., Coffeyville, Kansas.  Following the service Ramona will be laid to rest next to her husband Eugene in Restlawn Memorial Park Cemetery also in Coffeyville.  To leave an online message of condolence or to share a memory of Ramona, please visit www.fordwulfbrunschapel.com.

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