Marilyn Light Vance - LHS Class of 1956

Marilyn E. Vance, 84, passed away on Saturday, April 29, 2023 at her home surrounded by her family. 

She graduated from Leavenworth High School in 1956. On June 9, 1957 Marilyn married Bill J. Vance in Leavenworth, Kansas. She worked as a Home Day Care Provider and resided in Leavenworth for most of her life and was a member of the First Christian Church. 

Marilyn was preceded in death by her husband, Bill J. Vance and siblings, Marvin F. Light, Jr., Melvin Light, and Marjorie Wood Light. 

She is survived by her children, Kelly E Vance, of Waukesha, Wisconsin, Mark A. Vance, of Kansas City, Kansas, and Michelle A Vance Taylor, of Leavenworth, Kansas, grandchildren, Derek A Vance, of Shawnee, Kansas, Blaine R. Vance of Overland Park, Kansas, LeAnn M. Vance, of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Christopher M. Vance, of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, 2 step-siblings, and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.  

Visitation will be held at the Davis Funeral Chapel on Sunday, May 7, 2023 from 4 P.M. to 7 P.M. Funeral Services will be held at Davis Funeral Chapel on Monday May 8, 2023 at 10 A.M. officiated by Rev. Cape Rust. Burial will follow at Mount Muncie Cemetery. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be given to L.A.W.S, Hope Animal Shelter, or Alzheimer's Association.

Ellen Thomas Byrd - LHS Class of 1956

Ellen Jane Byrd passed away on March 9, 2023. Though currently distraught, her family is comforted by the knowledge that her soul lives on and they will all one day be reunited in Heaven.

She was born November 23, 1938 in Leavenworth, Kansas, and it was in Leavenworth that she met and eventually married the love of her life, Joe Byrd, in 1969. After their wedding, Joe wore his dress blues and Ellen rocked a suit jacket and matching mini skirt (this was 60’s, after all)!

Ellen made a warm and caring home for her family, even through Joe's deployments to Vietnam, Iran, and (worst of all) Texas. Eventually, the two settled in Athens, Georgia after Joe retired, and that was home for the next forty-plus years.

Ellen worked as a secretary at the University of Georgia and the Garden Club of Georgia. She and Joe were such strong Christians that they could not be limited to a single church. As such, they were dedicated members of Prince Avenue Baptist Church and, later, Green Acres Baptist Church.

Ellen’s death was preceded by that of her husband, Lt. Col. Joseph L. Byrd, Jr., who passed in 2016. She is survived by her children, Joseph (Janice) Byrd III, Jodi (Randy) Turner, Jeff Wahaus, Debra (George) Simon and Christopher (Sarah) Byrd; grandchildren, Joseph (Kim) Byrd IV, Rachael (Greg) Walkup, Matthew Kanfer, Dylan (Amber) Turner, Jessie (Brandon) Noble, Rachael Wahaus, Melody Wahaus, Michael Simon, Nicky Simon, Joey Simon, Caleb Byrd, Zoe Byrd and Wyatt Byrd; brother, Russell (Teresa) Thomas; and too many great grandchildren, nieces and nephews to list here.

In the last few years of Ellen's life, she suffered from dementia, but, through it all, she kept a spark in her eye that revealed she had not lost the strength of her spirit or the depth of her love for her family. Ellen was fortunate enough to live with her daughter, Jodi, and son-in-law, Randy, who cared for her during those final years. She died peacefully with the knowledge that she was surrounded by love.Her family trusts that, after initial introductions in Heaven, she'll grab her mini skirt, find her soldier, and celebrate, finally free from any earthly disability or discomfort.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, March 15th at 2:00 pm at the South Canton Funeral Home in Canton, GA, with a memorial service to follow at 3:00 pm (www.theSCFH.com). Interment will be at 11:00 am on March 16 at the Georgia National Cemetery, also located in Canton, GA.

In lieu of flowers, Ellen's family asks that you pick up the phone and call your mother. Go on. Do it now. We'll wait.

We love you, mom. See you soon!

Bob Hessenflow - LHS Class of 1952

Robert Eugene Hessenflow died peacefully on Saturday, January 30, 2021. He was born on March 16, 1934, to William Robert Hessenflow and Evelyn Madron Hessenflow in Weston, Missouri. He spent his early childhood in Weston, and then moved to Leavenworth, Kansas where he graduated high school in 1952. 

Bob furthered his education by attending St. Mary’s College and the University of Kansas before working with his father in the family business, Hessenflow Painting and Decorating. 

He excelled in sketching and had once considered being a commercial artist. Additionally, he served several years in the National Guard. He enjoyed playing basketball and baseball and was honored to be asked to join two farm baseball teams.

Bob married the love of his life, Patsy Marie Williams, on November, 20, 1955. After spending many years in California, they returned to Leavenworth which has been their home for 56 years. 

He loved vacationing in California each winter and visiting his sister, Joyce. He also took pleasure in traveling, fishing and camping. Bob appreciated being part of the Jaycees of the Leavenworth Chamber of Commerce and served on the Leavenworth school board. He was fond of spending time with family, joking with his grandchildren, watching sports and smoking his pipe.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Bob and Evelyn Hessenflow. He is survived by his wife, Pat, and their two sons, Jeffrey E. Hessenflow (Nora) and Gregory L. Hessenflow (Julie) along with five grandchildren, Matthew (Rita), Alyson, Claire, Paige and Grace; and one great-granddaughter, Evelyn. Bob is also survived by his sister, Joyce Hayes (LHS Class of 1956), and niece, Carrie Nall, Thousand Palms, California.

The family would like to thank Harbor Hospice and the Lansing Rehabilitation & Nursing Home for Bob’s care. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Harbor Hospice, 7223 W. 95th St., Suite 230, Overland Park, KS, 66212. A visitation (noon) and service (1 p.m.) will be held at Davis Funeral Chapel on Monday, February 8, 2021, followed by a private family burial.

George Ryan

George T. Ryan, 84, Leavenworth, Kansas, passed away January 10, 2021, at his home under hospice services.

He was born April 24, 1936, in Leavenworth, the oldest of three children to Theodore and Josephine (LaMay) Ryan. He attended school until the 8th grade, and later obtained his GED. That was a very proud day for him. 

George served in the U.S. Army and National Guard from 1957 to 1963, with an honorable discharge. 

He married Nellie Everett (LHS Class of 1956) in 1956 and they had four children: Linda, Carol, George Jr. and Diane. They later divorced. 

He married Mary A. (Vargas) Warner, who had three children: Julie, Jennifer and Stephen, on Aug. 2, 1969. They were married until Mary passed away Oct. 2, 2015.

George was a member of the Eagles and a past member of Happy Hollow Lakes, where his family spent many wonderful times. 

He and Mary loved sitting on the porch with coffee, just watching the traffic and the neighborhood. He also loved sitting in his garage, drinking beer. He never met a stranger, which his family had to discourage as he got older. Sadly, the world was not the same as he remembered it.

George’s life work was in manufacturing at Gould National Battery, making batteries. He started there in October 1958 and retired (for the first time), when the plant closed in 2000. He could not take just sitting around doing nothing, so he started a maintenance/janitorial service for the Leavenworth school district in December 2000 and retired (for the second time) in 2005. Both he and Mary realized he still was not ready to just sit home or go out to eat, so in 2006, he went to work for Walmart doing overnight maintenance/janitorial service. He was employed there until 2016. 

For the last few years, George was burdened with dementia but still loved sitting on the porch and enjoyed visitors, welcoming them with a smile and, “Hey! What’s going on!” Some he knew them right off; some it took him a minute to remember. But he was always happy and grateful for the visits.

George was preceded in death by his parents; his first wife Nellie, his second wife Mary, and two daughters, Linda and Diane.

He is survived by three daughters, Julie (Robert) West, Leavenworth, Jennifer Warner, Ohio, and Carol Werbe and family, Kansas; two sons, Steve (Susan) Warner, Arkansas, and George (Kim) Ryan, Missouri. He is also survived by a brother, John (Mary) Ryan and a sister, Mary (Joseph) Ward, all of Leavenworth. His nine grandchildren survive him: Josh, Nicole (Jon), Lea, Sarah (Jason), Angela (AJ), Daniel, Kristopher, Meghan (Byron), and Nickie. He also has 15 great-grandchildren: Alyssa, Caitlyn, Rilya, Avery, Sophia, Peyton, Camden, Cora, Ethan, Alle, Andrew, Harmony, Lillian, Alden and Finley. Numerous nieces and nephews will also mourn his passing.

A heartfelt thank you to Jim, Kathy and Carl for looking out for both George and Mary over the years. From clearing sidewalks to just waving or stopping by to say hi, and trimming the front grass when George could no longer do it. It was much appreciated. 

A very special thank you to Crittendon Home Care for the outstanding care George was given that allowed him to remain in his home, as he wished. They went above and beyond and it was so appreciated. Thank you also to Encompass Hospice services.
Memorial contributions may be made to Crittendon Home Care, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or the Alzheimer’s Association.

Kay White Edmonds - LHS Class of 1956

Kay W. Edmonds, 82, passed away Wednesday, December 9, 2020 in her home located in Leavenworth County.

Kay was born on March 29, 1938 to Clifford and Helen (Weaver) White in Osawatomie, Kansas. She was one of five children.
Kay shared some life events with her children that were pertinent to her, we thought you would enjoy these:
“There was a small store on the corner of 4th and Pottawatomie, where the owner saved one piece of bubble gum for me when he received a shipment (during the war). I went to the store with my penny to buy it and started chewing it. Skipping back home, I swallowed it!
While I was walking through the park, a snake ran through my legs and we just knew that I was so lucky as being close to water, we knew it was a water moccasin?? As I remember the old times we had NO supervision. No one worried about us.
I walked EVERYWHERE…. To school, to work (except babysitting up North) no matter the weather.
I loved to skate. At first I would skate up/down on Ohio Street and sing "bluebird's on my shoulder". The cement was rough and I wore out the wheels… you could see the ball bearings. Then my grandparents gave me 2.00 for new ones. You probably have never seen "old time" skates! In my H.S. days, I spent most of my time (when not working) at the skating rink. And then you all will remember going skating every Sunday (family night) at the rink. So much fun.
While in H.S., I had several jobs. One job was at Hallmarks when it was North (by the bridge). It was from 5 to 9 P.M. and only teens worked there. We stood at tall desks and folded paper. We made our quota or more but still had lots of fun…. Especially the last day at work. 
So I quit skating and started dancing and skiing. Skiing being the best thing ever.”
Kay went to the Cathedral School when she was young then switched to Sacred Heart Schools. In middle school she was switched to public schools. She graduated from Leavenworth High School.
Kay worked for numerous places including, Hallmark, NuWay (where she made 40 cents an hour plus tips and bonus milkshakes), House of Fabrics (where she received a pearl necklace in a beautiful blue velvet box (much later baby Debbie broke it)), Montgomery Wards (where she sold toys), Manufacturer State Bank, First National Bank (where she worked 18 years), and she was an accountant for Lansing Board of Education.
She enjoyed many things especially, roller skating, dancing, and snow skiing.
Kay is survived by three children, Deborah Kay (Larry) Sheets, David Richard (Jeannine) Edmonds, Stephanie (Randy) Dentinger; eight grandchildren, Roger Dean Eagle, Jeffrey Mark Eagle, Ryan Eugene Edmonds, Stephen Wesley Perrin, Jr., Matthew Newton Munsterman, Dustin Burns, Rita Kay Edmonds and Elizabeth Therese Edmonds; 10 great-grandchildren, 4 great-great-grandchildren; three siblings, Judith Lucille King, James Melvin (Donna) White, and Ronald LeRoy White; son-in-law, Newton Munsterman;, and many numerous nieces and nephews.
Kay is preceded in death by two children, Barbara Charice Munsterman and Susan Marie Burns; brother, Charles Clifford White; and brother-in-law, James King.
We would like to give a special thank you to Crossroads Hospice for their exceptional care and compassion to mom while granting her final wish of staying at home until the end.
In lieu of flowers memorials may be given to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation www.cff.org

Rita Schreiber Tracy - LHS Class of 1956

Rita Vanessa Tracy, 82, died Thursday, October 8, 2020, at The Windsor of Lawrence in Lawrence, Kansas. 

She was born September 10, 1938, in Leavenworth, Kansas, the daughter of Wilbert Gottlieb and Evelyn Vanessa Schreiber. She graduated from Leavenworth High School in 1956. She later graduated from the University of Kansas in 1960 with a BSN in Nursing.

She married Dr. Dick Blaylock Tracy on May 29, 1964, in Leavenworth. 

Rita also graduated from Ohio University in Athens, Ohio in 1972 with a MS degree in Family Life and Child Development. In 1984 she received a MS degree from the University of Kansas in Maternal and Child Health Nursing and was certified as an Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner.

Rita was a Registered Nurse for forty years, retiring from Washburn University in Topeka after 24 years of teaching in the School of Nursing. Prior to teaching nursing, she was employed at the University of Kansas Hospital, Kansas Neurological Institute in Topeka, the Lawrence-Douglas County Health Department, and Athens Mental Health Center in Athens, Ohio.

Rita held membership in the American Nurses Association and the Kansas State Nursing Association, Eta Kappa Chapter of Sigma Tau International, Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi, and The Society of Rogerian Scholars. She also participated in numerous volunteer activities in the Lawrence and Topeka communities. Over the years, she volunteered at the Topeka Rescue Mission where she initiated and conducted a nurse managed clinic. She volunteered for Mother to Mother, and taught women's health at the Douglas County Jail. Over the years, she volunteered for numerous organizations including LINK, and the Jubilee Café. 

Rita was a member of Trinity Episcopal Church in Lawrence for many years and served in a variety of ministries. She and her husband were both ordained to the Sacred Order of Deacons by the Right Reverend William E. Smalley, Bishop of Kansas on September 9, 2000. She and Dick both served at Trinity from 2000 until their retirement.

Rita's husband, Dick survives at the home. Other survivors include a daughter Vanessa Milota (husband Barry) and grandson Joshua Milota, Lawrence; a sister, Velta Rose Kramer, Manhattan; nieces Lou Ann Claassen (Dale), Manhattan, Lisa Mancin (Mark), Platte City, Mo., and children Tristan and Rosie, Judith Tracy, Ellen Tracy, and Mary Slusser Tracy (Chris), River Forest, Illinois.

She was preceded in death by her parents, a brother-in-law, Bud Kramer, and a brother-in-law, Father Max Tracy.

Memorial services will be at 2 pm Sunday, November 1, 2020, at Trinity Episcopal Church, with the Rev. Rob Baldwin officiating. The service will be livestreamed at https://www.facebook.com/pg/TrinityLawrenceKS/posts/. Inurnment will take place in the Matthews Chapel columbarium at the church following the service. 

A public Celebration of Life will be held at a later date when gathering restrictions are lifted.

Online condolences may be sent to this link: https://rumsey-yost.com/2020/10/rita-v-tracy/#comments.

The family suggests memorial contributions to Trinity Episcopal Church, the Lawrence Community Shelter, or the Alzheimer's Association, in care of Rumsey-Yost Funeral Home, 601 Indiana St., Lawrence, Kansas, 66044. 

Carolyn Thomas Wrigley - LHS Class of 1958

It is with great sadness we announce the passing of Carolyn Kay Wrigley on Monday, May 25, 2020 after her ongoing battle with cancer. She passed peacefully in her daughter Danielle’s arms listening to her husband Charles sing their song. 
Carolyn was born and raised in Leavenworth, Kansas. She was the daughter of the late William and Dolly Thomas, and preceded in death by her brothers Freddie (LHS Class of 1945), Alvin (LHS Class of 1950), and Bobby Thomas. 
One of her favorite memories as a child was when she would meet her father on the railroad tracks on his way home from work and she would get whatever treat he left in his lunch box. She often spoke of this to her children.
She worked at Hallmark Cards, where she retired after more than 20 years. In her younger years, she enjoyed square dancing with Charles, watching birds, gardening, traveling, swimming, playing golf, going to the casino, and going on cruises with family.  They owned an RV park in Texas and lived back and forth between Lynn Valley Lake and Texas for many years. 
Carolyn loved her family breakfasts at I-hop where she would always order the Rooty Tooty fresh ’N fruity. She also enjoyed ice-cream dates with her children at Dairy Queen. She kept in close contact with friends from high-school, and often met for monthly lunches which she cherished.
Carolyn was the beloved wife and best friend to Charles Wrigley of 43 years.
Before meeting Charles, Carolyn was a single mother who deeply loved her 4 children; Gene (Heike), Randy (Shelly), Danielle (Vernon), and Kevin (Oni). 
She was an adoring Grandmother to Jeremy (Stacy), Aaron (Gayla), Leif (Jaimie), Brandy (Jeff), Jacqueline (Aaron), Cody, and Chealsey and proud great-grandmother to Penelope, Astrid, Milo, Abigail, Acacia, and Kaiser. She was passionate and proud of all of her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. 
She is survived by her sisters, Charlotte Appleby (LHS Class of 1952), Ellen Byrd (LHS Class of 1956), and brother Russell Thomas (LHS Class of 1962). Carolyn is also fondly remembered by her many nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and many good friends including those whom she took under her wing, especially Phyllis Hamilton. 
Carolyn was a loving, determined, and fiercely strong woman, who will be missed by many. The memories are endless, and she left a lasting impression on everyone she came in contact with. 
Due to the COVID pandemic, the chapel is only able to accommodate 30 people at a time. The family asks that you please wear a mask and be aware of the occupancy standards. Services will be held at Davis Funeral Chapel, 531 Shawnee Street, Leavenworth, on Thursday June 4th, 2020 with visitation from 4pm-7pm, with Celebration of Life to follow.
In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Children’s Mercy Hospital in the name of Carolyn Wrigley in ℅ Vascular Department or Operation Breakthrough.

Margaret Raymond Meyer - LHS Class of 1956

Margaret L. (Raymond) Meyer, 81, Leavenworth, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family, on January 03, 2020.  After a long battle with leukemia, which she fought and won, Margaret lost her fight with Parkinson’s and multiple other health conditions. 
Margaret was born July 15, 1938 in Leavenworth, Kansas the daughter of Walter E. and Dorothy (Meyer) Raymond.  She was a 1956 graduate of Leavenworth High School. She married her high school sweetheart, Frederick R. (Bob) Meyer (LHS Class of 1956) on March 20, 1957.  Margaret worked for Raymond Music and R & H Vendors before beginning her career in Civilian Personnel at Fort Leavenworth. She retired from Civil Service after 20 years, in 1993.  Margaret was a lifetime member of St. Paul Lutheran Church in Leavenworth.
Margaret is survived by her husband, Bob, of 62 years; daughters Linda (Edward) Holm, Topeka; and Connie Shelley, Leavenworth; grandsons, Kristoffer (Katie) Holm, Topeka; and Jeremy (Nicole) Holm, Topeka; and great-grandchildren Milo and Zoey Holm, Topeka. She was predeceased by her parents, and brothers Walter E. Raymond, Jr., and Michael A. Raymond.
The family would like to give special thanks and appreciation to Cheryl and Michael Bogner, sister-in-law and brother-in-law, for their endless love and support to Margaret and her family. They would also like to thank all of the staff at Twin Oaks Health and Rehab Facility for the incredible care Margaret received and for the kindness and compassion they gave to her family.
Visitation is from 5:30 until 7:30 pm Wednesday, January 8, 2020. Funeral service will be at 11:00 am Thursday, January 9, 2020 at Davis Funeral Chapel, 531 Shawnee Street, Leavenworth.  Interment will follow at Sunset Memory Gardens, 16731 Springdale Road, Leavenworth. Memorial contributions may be made to CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) for children, 100 S. Fifth St., Leavenworth, KS 66048, or to the donor’s choice.

Pat Kane Rush

Patricia Ann Rush, 76, Leavenworth, passed away Thursday,
August 22, 2019.  She was born Sept. 23, 1942 in Atchison, Kansas. Baby of nine children born of John and Florance Kane.
She is preceded in death by her husband, Milton Rush (LHS Class if 1954), her parents and five siblings, Margie Swendson, Skippy Kane, Bud Kane, Mary Lou Andre, Doris Blankenship.
Three siblings survive her, Eugene Kane, John Jr. Kane and Lorene Clemmons.
Pat and Milton were married on Oct. 3, 1964 at the Atchison County Courthouse. To their union were born three children, Milton Rush Jr., April (Rush) Norberto and Melissa (Rush) Seichepine and two stepdaughters, Tracy Baragary and Robin Orf. She has seven grandsons, Jacob Rush, Nolan Norberto, Brent Baragary, Zachary Baragary, Dustin Paul, Calab Orf and Travis Orf, and six granddaughters, Tina (Sudduth) Linebarger, Khrystyn (Dean) Hunter, Samantha (Rush) Griffith, Courtney (Seichepine) Hyde, Alyssa and Leah Seichepine and 12 great-grandchildren, Landyn Griffith, Karter Griffith, Lucas Linebarger, Levi Linebarger, Nikolai Hunter, Alex Paul, Emma Paul, Grady Paul, McKenzie Kameron Orf, Rhett Baragary, Laine Baragary. All children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren survive her.
Pat was active in worship of both St. Paul as well as Twin Oak Church service. She loved to visit and play games with the other residents of Twin Oak.
Services will be on Saturday, Sept. 7, 2019 at 2 p.m. at St. Paul Lutheran Church, 311 N. 7th St., Leavenworth, KS 66048.
You may leave condolences on Pat's online Guestbook.

Together ♥♥♥ Forever

Milton H. Rush, 78, of Leavenworth passed away Monday, April 28, 2014. He was born April 11, 1936, in Leavenworth Kansas to Harley and Emma Rush.
Milt provided tonsorial services for 55 years.
He married Patricia A. Kane October 3, 1964.
He was an active member of New Hope Church and played the bass and sang in the praise and worship band.
Milt loved to fish and hunt. 
He still played and coached softball, and coed softball, travelling all over with his ball team, the "Antiques," playing in an over 70 league.
Preceded in death by brother Elmer Rush (LHS Class of 1938) and sisters Verna Matzeder (LHS Class of 1942) and Deloris Martin. 
Survived by his wife Patricia and brother Terry Rush (LHS Class of 1963) and sister Emily Steuernagel (LHS Class of 1956).
Milt has five children Robin Orf, Tracy Baragary, Milton H Rush Jr. (LHS Class of 1984), April Norberto (LHS Class of 1987), Melissa Seichepine (LHS Class of 1991); as well as seven grandsons, six granddaughters and three great-grandchildren. 
The family will receive friends Saturday, May 3, 2014, 10:00 A.M. to 12:00 P.M. at St. Paul Lutheran Church, 7th and Miami, Leavenworth. A Celebration Of Life Service will follow at the church. 

Condolences may be left HERE...

From the Fort Leavenworth Lamp  - August 24, 2007

Milton Rush, 71, and fellow-barber John Rettig, 70, have nearly 100 years of combined experience working as contract barbers at the Army and Air Force Exchange Service barber shops at Ft. Leavenworth.
In 1959 when Rush first came to work, Maj. Gen. Lionel McGarr was the commandant of the Command and General Staff College, a nuclear weapons course was offered and, in the basement of the new Bell Hall, you could get a haircut for a buck. Today, the CGSC curriculum reflects the war on terrorism, Bell Hall is slated for demolition and haircuts cost $8.25 in the new Lewis and Clark Center. However, after 48 years, Rush will still be happy to give you a haircut.
Rush completed barber training at Molar Barber College in Kansas City, Mo., shortly after graduating from Leavenworth High School in 1954. In the mid 1950s, Rush owned a barber shop on 5th Street in downtown Leavenworth. In 1956, he also began working part time at the Post Exchange barber shop. Then in the late 1950s, Rush gave up his business and started working as a full-time AAFES barber. He worked a split shift between the CGSC and the PX barber shops.
Today, the barbers typically arrive at work between 6 and 6:15 a.m. for the 6:30 a.m. opening of the three-chair shop. They prepare the cash registers, clean shop, get their tools ready, then drink coffee and wait for customers. Business cranks up around 6:45 a.m. and Rush said he would see about 30 customers on a good day. Most of the patrons in the early morning are retirees because the active-duty Soldiers are doing physical training, said Rush, who served six years in the Kansas National Guard.
The best part of the job for Rush is being able to work indoors."We got air conditioning during the summer and heating in the winter," he said. What's the worst part of the job? "Sitting here doing nothing during class hours, especially when they (CGSC) have a guest speaker, it's dead."
Both Rettig and Rush have cut the hair of many service members who went on to become prominent officers. Rush fondly recalls Chaplain (then-Maj.) Douglas Carver, when he was a CGSC student. "He impressed me the most," Rush said. Maj. Gen. Carver is now the Army chief of chaplains. Perhaps his most notable customer was retired Gen. Colin Powell. They haven't seen much change in the hairstyles of their military costumers. "The whole idea is to keep it short and to keep it clean," Rush said. Rush said he likes the setup of the new shop that employs four barbers. "We have much better lighting, better cabinet space than we've had, it's a little bit narrower (floor space), but this is really a nice shop," he said. And, customers can catch the news on the wall-mounted high definition television.
Both Rettig and Rush work part time and neither of them foresee hanging up his clippers soon. "My health is good, I play a lot of softball to keep in shape," Rush said.
The AAFES barber shop at the Lewis and Clark Center is in the cafeteria area next to the bookstore. Hours are 6:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday.
by Jeff Crawley, Fort Leavenworth Lamp Staff Writer

Judith McGuire

Judith Oliver McGuire, Lansing, died Sunday, July 14, 2019.  Born on Feb. 2, 1945 in Mobile, Alabama, she was the daughter of John Joseph and Rosalie Carroll Oliver.  She held a Bachelor’s Degree from Central Missouri State University and a Master’s Degree from Emporia State University, and had been a teacher in both elementary and adult education.  She married H. Lee McGuire, Jr. (LHS Class of 1956) on June 3, 1967 in Independence, Missouri.  He survives at the home. Other survivors include a daughter Colleen, and son-in-law, Tom Dunn. 
She was preceded in death by her mother, father and brother, Michael Oliver.  A private burial will be at Mt. Muncie Mausoleum.  In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Concordia Seminary, 801 Seminary Place, St. Louis, Missouri, 63105, or Trinity Lutheran Church, Leavenworth.

Donna McNett Schaefer - LHS Class of 1954

Donna Jean Schaefer, 83, passed away peacefully at home on Friday, Feb. 15, 2019. She was born Dec. 22, 1935 to Francis M. McNett and Hazel D. McNett, (Allen) in Highland Kansas. She attended Leavenworth public schools graduating from Leavenworth Sr. High School in 1954. After graduation she joined Civil Service and accepted a position at Fort Carson, Colorado. This is where she met and married Dennis R. Schaefer on May 24, 1964. From this union they had one child, a daughter, Michelle R. Williford, (Schaefer). They later divorced. 
In 1973, she moved her daughter back to Leavenworth to be closer to her family. She started working at Munson Army Hospital at the A&D desk where she retired in 1995.
After the birth of her first grandchild she acquired the name, “Nanny”, and then became ” Nanny” to everyone after that. She was everybody’s “Nanny”.
She is survived by her daughter, Michelle Williford, (John),Red Bank, Tennessee, a granddaughter, Kaitlin Jewell, Leavenworth, a grandson, Tyler Jewell, Leavenworth. She is survived by five great-grandchildren, Cameron Raney, Kiera and Marshall McMillin, Carsyn Hooks, and Mackenzie Jewell. She is also survived by a sister, Shirley Clark, Leavenworth. She had many nieces, nephews, and friends who loved her very much.
She was preceded in death by her parents, a sister, Linda McNett, a brother, Tommy McNett (LHS Class of 1956) and a granddaughter, Emilee Janelle Jewell.
Memorials may be given to the Leavenworth Meals on Wheels program.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, Feb. 21, 2019 from 6 to 8 p.m. at Davis Funeral Chapel. Funeral Service will be held on Friday, Feb. 22, 2019 at 11 a.m. at Davis Funeral Chapel. Condolences may be left on Donna’s online guestbook.

Celeta Olander Hopkins - LHS Class of 1956

Celeta Marcene Hopkins, 80, went to be with the Lord on October 12, 2018. She passed peacefully at home, lovingly surrounded by family. Celeta was born in Topeka, Kansas on February 21, 1938 to F. Warren and Sally E. Olander. Her family moved to Leavenworth, Kansas when she was quite small and she remained a resident throughout her formative and adult years. 
Celeta graduated from Leavenworth High School in 1956. While in school, she was a member of the choir and sang in the June Bug Jamboree. She did a special solo performance of “If I Knock The L Out of Kelly”, a song she often sang to family and a memory she was proud to share. She was also proud to be Bo Peep in “Babes In Toyland.” She loved singing and watching live performances. After high school, Celeta remained actively engaged with her local classmates and helped plan the class reunions. Celeta was a member and past Honored Queen in Job’s Daughters Bethel 28. Upon graduation, Celeta attended Baker University and pledged Zeta Tau Alpha sorority. She moved back home to Leavenworth and after a two year courtship, she married William David Hopkins on April 12, 1958. They were married 55 years until his passing in early 2014. 
Celeta worked throughout her youth at Kresge’s and Jahn’s grocery store, building the foundation for her impeccable work ethic. She started her career at the hospital currently known as Munson Army Health Center on Fort Leavenworth. Family was always very important to Celeta and as she began bringing children into the world, she took a few temporary positions with the Post Engineers, working for the Visitor’s Bureau and Visiting Officers. When she returned to the work force permanently, Celeta became a Publications Clerk for the Command and General Staff College where she remained for 37 ½ years until her retirement. Her work allowed her to interact with many of the departments in the college. She welcomed the incoming students and was able to offer a maternal presence to those young officers who were far away from their families. It was her wish that they never felt alone and her hope that if her own children were far from home, someone would do the same for them.
After retiring from her distinguished years of civil service for the United States Government, Celeta did some traveling with her husband. Branson, Missouri was always a favorite. Memphis and Nashville stood out in her mind as worthy travel experiences as well. Her husband’s unexpected stroke in 2001 rendered her a caregiver for him. She took care of him with great compassion and attentive focus for 13 years.
Celeta was a faith driven, prayerful woman who embodied the Golden Rule she cherished. She loved God, her family and friends. She enjoyed holidays, parties and celebrations of all kinds, infusing them with her genuine joy and enthusiasm. She especially loved birthdays and often called to sing to those she loved on their special day. She always thoughtfully remembered to send cards for special occasions and newspaper clippings when an article mattered to someone she knew. She loved to cross stitch and sew. She often cross stitched very special pillow cases for her family at Christmas which became a beloved tradition. She loved show tunes, plays and musicals, especially Showboat. She had a passion for art and loved drawing, painting and doing block lettering. She loved playing board games and cards. 
Celeta was one of kind, a rare soul who genuinely loved and appreciated every person she met. In her 80 years, she had never said an unkind word about a single soul. 
Celeta is survived by her three children: Debbie Flaspohler, Mark Hopkins (Cindy) and Lisa Hopkins, all of Kansas City; five grandchildren: Ashley Rice (Jeremiah), Jennifer Hill (Michael), Allie Frederes (AJ), Stephen Flaspohler and Brandon Flaspohler; five great grandchildren: Jeremy, Kailey and Aubrey and twin babies, a boy and a girl, who are on the way; and numerous grand pets whom she enjoyed. She is also survived by a beloved cousin Donna (Ken) Phillips, Houston, Texas and close friends, who are more like family, among her many friends. 
She was preceded in death by her husband and her parents. 
A visitation will be held from 6-8 p.m. on Monday, October 22, 2018 at the R. L. Leintz Funeral Home. The funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, October 23, 2018 at the First United Methodist Church in Leavenworth. Interment following the service at Sunset Memory Gardens. 
Memorials may be made to the Council on Aging, First United Methodist Church or a charity of the donor’s choosing.

Together ♥♥♥ Forever

William David Hopkins, 77, of Leavenworth went to be with the Lord on February 18, 2014. Mr. Hopkins was born on May 6, 1936 in Atchison, Kan. to William Harris and Edna May (Jacobs) Hopkins. 
He graduated from Leavenworth High School in 1954. Upon graduation he enlisted in the Air Force and was a veteran of the Korean War. In 1958, he married his sweetheart Celeta M. (Olander) Hopkins (LHS Class of 1956), also of Leavenworth. They celebrated 55 years of marriage. Mr. Hopkins entered the insurance sales industry shortly after their nuptials. 
With his ability to communicate and his gift with people, he maintained a career in various areas of sales until discovering a niche for car sales. With his independent spirit and interest in business ownership, Mr. Hopkins started Broadhill Motors in 1968, which he owned and operated for 13 years. An interest in housing led him to building and selling homes of his own design in Leavenworth, ultimately leading him to a love for painting. He became a Paint Crew Chief for the Army Corp of Engineers on Fort Leavenworth in 1985. He retired from this position in 2000. While working for the government, Mr. Hopkins rekindled his life long passion for learning and his initial interests in a college education. He received an Associate of Arts degree from Kansas City Kansas Community College in 1989. 
Mr. Hopkins enjoyed an active lifestyle and traveling with his wife until an untimely stroke in 2001 rendered him unable to participate in previously enjoyed activities. His resilience and driving desire to stay engaged in life gave him the strength to meet the challenges he encountered over the 13 years he endured the after effects of his stroke. Family, including his pet family, meant everything to Mr. Hopkins. 
He is survived by his wife, Celeta, his three children, Debbie, Mark and Lisa, five grandchildren: Ashley, Jennifer, Allie, Stephen and Brandon, two great-grandchildren, his sister Marlene Fink (LHS Class of 1952), nieces and his family of friends. 
Visitation will be Friday, February 28 from 6-8 p.m. The funeral will be Saturday, March 1 at 11 a.m. Both services to be held at R. L. Leintz Funeral Home, 4701 10th Avenue, Leavenworth, Kan. Interment at Sunset Memory Gardens following the service. Memorials may be sent to The City Union Mission, Meals on Wheels, St. Jude's Children's Hospital or donor's choice.

Jane Mayne Lemke - LHS Class of 1956

Jane Lemke, 79, Leavenworth, died, Saturday, Sept. 29, 2018, at her home. She was born Oct. 9, 1938, in Leavenworth, Kansas, the daughter of Paul and Mary (Ober) Mayne.
She graduated from Leavenworth High School in 1956.
In Sept. of 1989, Jane married Walter Lemke in Leavenworth, Kansas. He survives at the home. She is also survived by six sons, Brian K. Hannigan, Bruce K. Hannigan, Brett K. Hannigan, John Lemke, all of Leavenworth, Kansas, Edward Evenson, Pheonix, Arizona and Keith Lemke, Burlington, Kansas; three daughters, Diane R. Hannigan, Topeka, Kansas, Sharon Strein and Serphina “Kitty” Evenson, both of Leavenworth, Kansas; 16 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; and her lifelong friend and grade school pal of almost 69 years, Joan Riddle, Epping, Victoria, Australia.
Jane was preceded in death by her parents and a son, Bart Kevin Hannigan.
She lived in a community that she loved and enjoyed. Jane volunteered many hours of services to her community. She retired from the Veterans Administration Center at Leavenworth after 38 years of service. She also devoted 20 years to the Veterans Day Parade in Leavenworth as the Secretary and Treasurer. 
Jane was a member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles Lodge 55. She had the chance to serve as Auxiliary President.
Visitation will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 5, 2018, at the R.L. Leintz Funeral Home. A funeral service will begin at 10 a.m. Saturday, at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Sunset Memory Gardens Cemetery. Memorials are suggested to Kansas State School for the Blind.

Bill McCormack - LHS Class of 1954

William "Bill" R. McCormack, 81 of Aurora IL, passed away Monday May 28, 2018 at Alden of Waterford. He was born May 31, 1936 in Leavenworth, KS the son of the late Clifford and Irene (Holrich) McCormack.
Bill served his country with the U.S. Air Force which lead the way for his employment with the F.A.A. as an Air Traffic Controller at the Aurora Center for many years. He was a long-time member of Westminster Presbyterian Church of Aurora, where he served as a Deacon and Elder. Bill was also very involved in Scouting, officiating and other community activities. He was also a life-long East Aurora Tomcat supporter. 
Bill is survived by his loving wife Dorothy McCormack of Aurora; his children, Patrick (Briget) McCormack of Plano, IL, Janet (John) Avendano of Bourbonnais, IL and Michael (Karen) McCormack of Peoria, IL; and his sister Linda Burkhead (LHS Class of 1969); also his ten grandchildren; Paul (Deanna) Potts, Shawn McCormack, Samuel McCormack, Michael Avendano, Nikki Avendano, Marissa Avendano, Jeff (Kim) McCormack, Shauna McCormack, Kelly McCormack, and Kacey McCormack; five great grandchildren; Lake McCormack, Summer McCormack, Anthony (Peaches) McCormack, Zachary Larson, Mickey Larson; one great-great grandchild; Hazel McCormack along with many nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Patricia Kreutzer (LHS Class of 1956). 
Visitation will be held Friday June 1, 2018 from 4-8 p.m. at The Healy Chapel, 332 W. Downer Pl., Aurora, IL 60506. Funeral services will be held Saturday June 2, 2018 beginning at 10:30 a.m. at Westminster Presbyterian Church, 10 N. Edgelawn Dr., Aurora, IL 60506 with a luncheon to follow. Interment will be private.
You may share memories and offer condolences in Bill's online Guestbook.

Mary Hildebrant Williams - LHS Class of 1956

Mary Frances Williams, 80, slipped away on March 15, 2018 at Palmetto Richland Hospital, Columbia, South Carolina  and left  standing at her bedside granddaughter Ximya, grandson Isaac and daughters Vallaire and Thairen.
She was born September 26, 1937 in Leavenworth, Kansas to George Bettis Hildebrandt Sr. and Nina Mae (Johnson) Hildebrandt.
Mary worked many years in the lady correction center and then went to St. Mary’s College to further her education. She went on to teach and retired from the DARE (Drug Abuse Resistance Education) program in the Leavenworth school system only to foster 83 children.
She was an active member of the First Missionary Baptist Church, Leavenworth,  serving as Pastor Aide for 29 years. She cooked and served many meals for single soldiers, allowing them to feast on home style cooking.
From Leavenworth she went on to enjoy life traveling the globe with her daughter.
She was proceeded in death by her parents, husband Fred Williams and a brother George Bettis Hildebrandt Jr.
Mary is survived by two daughters, Vallerie Robinson and MSG Thairen Carter; two sons, Fredrick Lee Williams, Council Bluffs, Iowa, and Tracy Allen Williams, Kansas City, Missouri.  She also helped with the rearing of Gwendolyn Williams Parks, Leavenworth.
Other survivors include one brother William Gary Hildebrandt, Lansing, Kansas; four sisters Lauretta Polter (Fred)(LHS Class of 1957), Denver, Colorado, Georgia Mae Hester (LHS Class of 1952), Leavenworth, Barbara Johnson (LHS Class of 1952) and Rose Cook (LHS), Lansing; two God-daughters Barbie and Terri Garrett and mom Sharon Taylor Smith and her two adopted girls Judy Faust Lawrence and Victoria Lawrence, West Palm Beach, Florida; 8 grandchildren, great- grandchildren, a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and many other relatives and friends.
In lieu of  flowers, donations may be made to the Vive Church Mission Dept., 2630 Clemson Rd., Columbia, SC. 29229 (803) 223- 2877 info@vivechurch.com
You may share your remembrances and condolences on Mary’s online Tribute Wall. 
A memorial service will be held in Leavenworth, Kansas at a later time.  

Charles "Charlie" Hall - LHS Class of 1952

Charles Milton Hall passed away Sunday, March 4, 2018. He was born to Carl F. Hall and Bernice Edmonds Hall on February 3, 1934 in Leavenworth, Kansas. 
He attended schools in Leavenworth and graduated from Leavenworth High School in 1952. After graduation he joined the U.S. Army and was stationed in Japan. He worked in the office of the Santa Fe Railroad and Gould Battery Company, retiring as plant superintendent.
He married Joan Poell (LHS Class of 1956) on January 25, 1958. They had five children, Steven Hall (deceased), Michael Hall, Beth Hall, Nicholas Hall (Kharreim), and Pamela Hall (Rob Denney). He has 7 grandchildren and is also survived by his sister Katherine Kohler (LHS Class of 1951), Lansing, KS and several nieces and nephews. 
Charlie was a loving husband, father, and grandfather. He will be remembered fondly as being able to fix or build anything and being the family animal whisperer. 
Visitation will be held at Davis Funeral Chapel on Tuesday, March 6, 2018 from 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Joseph Catholic Church Wednesday, March 7, 2018 at 10:00 A.M. Burial will follow at Mount Calvary Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to St. Vincent’s Clinic or Leavenworth County Humane Society. Condolences may be left in Charlie’s online Guestbook. 

Steve Camp - LHS Class of 1956

Steven D. Camp, 79, passed away February 4, 2018, surrounded by family at his home. 
Steve was born July 9, 1938, in Leavenworth, Kansas, to Anson W. and Eunice M. (Moore) Camp. 
He married Judith A. Seeler (LHS Class of 1957) on February 15, 1958, in Leavenworth. 
Steve had a lifelong love of automobiles and worked selling cars, both retail and wholesale, for many years. He enjoyed spending time with his family, watching NASCAR races and tinkering in his garage. 
He was a member of St. Paul Lutheran Church in Leavenworth. 
Steve is survived by his wife of the home; three daughters: Tracy (Gary) Kaufman of Leawood, Kari (Charlie) Schultz of Hays, and Kandy (David) Price of Leavenworth; six grandchildren: Rachel (Cameron) Bliss, Madison Schultz, Aaron Kaufman, Mark Kaufman, Natalie Price, and Mallory Price; a sister, Eleanor (Don) Denney; a stepmother, Caroline; and many extended family members and friends.
Visitation will be Wednesday, February 7, from 6-8 p.m. at Davis Funeral Chapel, Leavenworth. Service will be at 10 a.m. Thursday, February 8, at St. Paul Lutheran Church, Leavenworth. Burial will follow at Sunset Memory Gardens Cemetery. Memorial contributions can be made to the American Diabetes Association, the National Kidney Foundation, and St. Paul Lutheran Church.

Barbara Hamilton Thomas - LHS Class of 1952

Barbara Louise Hamilton Thomas, 82, of Leavenworth, died Thursday, June 15, 2017, at the Lansing Care and Rehabilitation Center.
Barbara was born Oct. 19, 1934, in Leavenworth, Kan., the daughter of John Max and Helen Louise (Parsons) Hamilton.
She graduated from Leavenworth High School in 1952. On July 13, 1952, she married Alvin "A.P." Thomas. He preceded her in death in 2013.
Barbara worked at Ft. Leavenworth and then the Federal Bureau of Prisons from which she retired as Secretary to the Warden in 1990.
She loved and enjoyed spending time with her children and grandchildren. She also enjoyed traveling and reading. She was an active, lifetime member of Congregational/Pilgrim Church in Leavenworth. She also volunteered at the YWCA, Friends of the Library, the ARC Thrift Store, and Special Needs Advocacy Partnership (SNAP).
Barbara is survived by her children, Mark Thomas (Annie), David Thomas (Jacki) and Kelly Kouns (Tim); grandchildren, Sara and Jordan Thomas, Katie Correa (Jorge), Stephen, Jason (Sarah) and Ryan Kouns; nine great grandchildren; one sister, Greta Sharp (Bill); and niece Deonna Sharp.
Visitation will be from 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday, June 18, 2017, at the R.L. Leintz Funeral Home. A memorial service will begin at 11 a.m. Monday, at the funeral home. Pastor Greg Teague will officiate the ceremony. In honor of Barbara's wishes she was cremated. Memorials are suggested to Special Needs Advocacy Partnership in Leavenworth (SNAP).

Together ♥♥♥ Forever

Alvin "A.P." Thomas 81, Leavenworth, KS passed away Sunday, November 10, 2013 at St. Luke's Hospital in Kansas City, MO. Alvin was born January 27, 1932 in Leavenworth, KS the son of William B. and Dolly (Bullard) Thomas.

Alvin is survived by his wife Barbara, his children Mark Thomas (Annie), David Thomas (Jacki) and Kelly Kouns (Tim), grandchildren Sarah and Jordan Thomas, Katie Correa, Stephen, Jason and Ryan Kouns and nine great grandchildren, two brothers, Freddie Thomas (LHS Class of 1945) and Russell Thomas (LHS Class of 1962) and three sisters, Charlotte Appleby (LHS Class of 1952), Ellen Byrd (LHS Class of  1956) and Carolyn Wrigley (LHS Class of 1958). He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother Robert Thomas. 

Alvin graduated from Leavenworth High School in 1950. On July 13, 1952 in Leavenworth he married Barbara L. Hamilton (LHS Class of 1952).  He served in the United States Army from November 1952 to September 1954, serving in the Korean War. He went to work for the Federal Prison Service in 1955 and retired in 1982. He was a member of the Pilgrim Community Church, Special Needs Advocacy Partnership and a life member of the V.F.W. He was an avid golfer. 

Visitation will be held from 6 to 8 P. M Wednesday, November 13, 2013 at the Davis Funeral Chapel. Memorial service will be held 10:30 A.M Thursday, November 14, 2013 at the Funeral Chapel. Pastor Barb Johnston of the Pilgrim Community Church will officiate. In honor of A.P's wishes he was cremated. 

The family has requested memorial contributions be made to Pilgrim Community Church , 5th and Arch, Leavenworth, KS 66048 or St. Luke's Medical Center. Condolences may be sent to www.davisfuneralchapelinc.com.

Holiday Joy!

Celeta Olander Hopkins - LHS Class of 1956

Nellie Ennis Walker - LHS Class of 1958

60th Reunion of LHS Class of 1956

The Leavenworth High School Class of 1956 celebrated their 60th reunion 

Sept. 16-17, 2016 

Front row: Steve Camp,Margaret Raymond Meyer, John Raymos, Margary Moore Scheele, Sara Girton, Celeta Olander Hopkins, Billy Langley Oertel and Jane Mayne Lemke; 

Second row: Patricia Ross Judson, Maureen McEvoy Driver, David Wiseman, Ellen Thomas Byrd, Louie Klemp, Janet Fevurly Weld, Jo Ann Edwards Paulsen, Greta Hamilton Sharp and Sandra Ackerman Villareal; 

Third row: Jim Birmingham, Jerry Owen, David Leitch, Bob Nebrig, Ed Reilly, Jerry Hudson, Robert Kunkle, David Edgell, Bill Milbourne, Carl Biastock, Peter Curran, Lee McGuire, Don Tyson and Jim Smith.