Obituaries 

Obituary – Dennis Duane Collins

    Dennis Duane Collins, Kimberling City, MO, son of Ernest “Ray” and Dolores (Headley) Collins was born August 1, 1953 in Battlecreek, MI and departed this life March 6, 2010, in his home, at the age of 56.

    Dennis was united in marriage to Carolyn Tudor on April 28, 2002 and he had lived in the area the past 10 years coming from Elkhart, IN.  He was a bank computer program analyst and a U. S. Air Force veteran.  Dennis was a member of the Scrollsaw Assoc. of the World, National Wood Carvers, Pioneer Auto Assoc. and the Ozark Mountain Woodcarvers.   He also was a member of Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church.

    Survivors include: his parents, Ray & Dolores Collins of Elkhart, IN; his wife, Carolyn of the home; three sons, Chad Collins and fiancé, Lori Lull of Elkhart, IN, Bradley Collins and wife, Rikki of Elkhart, IN, Andy Shepherd and fiancé, Tasha Hubert of Aurora, MO; two daughters, Jennifer Collins Igney and husband, Todd of Goshen, IN, Jessica Williams and husband, Curtis of Lebanon, MO; one brother, Daryl Collins and wife, Alicia of Delaware, OH; one sister, Debra Collins of Elkhart, IN; 8 grandchildren and a host of other relatives and friends.

    Funeral services will be held on Saturday, March 13, 2010 in Elkhart, IN. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, March 20, 2010 at the family’s home.

    Local arrangements were under the direction of Stumpff Funeral Home-South, Kimberling City.

    In lieu of flowers, the family has requested memorial contributions to Paralyzed Veterans of America.

Obituary – E. Wayne Blevins

    E. Wayne Blevins, age 64, of Kimberling City, MO passed away Saturday, March 6, 2010.  He fought a brave three year battle with renal cell carcinoma.  Wayne was born February 17, 1946 in Seymour, MO to Herschel and Viola (Mason) Blevins.   

    Wayne was united in marriage to Susan (Jones) in 1965 and to this union were born two children, Michael and Tia of whom he was very proud.

    Wayne retired from the Showboat Branson Belle as the First Mate in 2005.  Prior to that, his career with Pitney Bowes and Data Documents, Inc. afforded him and his family the pleasure of living in California, Minnesota and Connecticut.  He and Susan returned to the Ozarks in 1999 to live on the shoreline of Table Rock Lake.  In his retirement, Wayne was a member of the Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla # 53 in Kimberling City, MO, enjoyed bird watching and remodeling the couple’s lakeside home.

    The youngest of seven children, he was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, Robert and Arnold.  He is survived by his wife Susan of 44 years; son, Michael of Kimberling City, MO; daughter, Tia Blevins of North Haven, Connecticut; two brothers, Jim of Springfield, MO, Dorsey and wife Julia of Branson, MO; two sisters, Lucille McKelvie and Velma Young of Seymour, MO; sister-in-law, Brenda and husband Bob McCulley of Mountain Grove, MO; brother-in-law, John (Bud) Jones of Springfield, MO; and dozens of nephews and nieces.

    Wayne was a very special, kind and loving man and will be sorely missed by family and friends.

  Special thanks to the staff on Five West at Cox South for the very special care given to Wayne and his family during a very difficult time.

      A Memorial service was held 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, March 9, 2010 at Stumpff Funeral Home-South, Kimberling City with Dr. Robert Docherty, Dennis Reilly and Scott Rust officiating. Cremation was under the direction of Stumpff Funeral Homes.  

         In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions to the Kimberling City Area Library in Kimberling City, MO or the Humane Society of Branson Tri-Lakes area in Reeds Spring, MO.

Obituary – June M. Tillman

    June M. Tillman, Kimberling City, MO, was born November 1, 1932 in Zafra, OK and Jesus took her home on March 2, 2010, at the age of 77.

    June was preceded in death by her husband, Clifford Junior Tillman (Joe) and they are now reunited in paradise.

    It is not important how June died, but how she lived, serving her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.  June will be greatly missed by her two sons, Todd Clifford Tillman and his wife, Anne Marie Tillman and Tracy Edward Tillman; three grandchildren, Drake, Drew and Natalie Tillman; two sisters, Margie Dillard and her husband, Sam and Irma Maurer and her husband, Bob; extended family, Bob Hitchcock; Bob, Karla, Bo and Chaz Pankovits; Herman, Susan and Kayla Quiroz and all who knew her.

  Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, March 6, 2010 at Keystone Baptist Church in Reeds Spring with Pastor Jim Cantrell officiating under the direction of Stumpff Funeral Home-South, Kimberling City.

    Visitation will be from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m., Friday at the funeral home.

    In lieu of flowers, the family has requested memorial contributions to Hospice Compassus.

Obituary – Darlene Graham

    Darlene Graham, Reeds Spring, MO, daughter of Vincent and Blanche (Howser) Wetherla was born October 12, 1927 in Kansas City, KS and departed this life February 25, 2010 in Tablerock Healthcare Center, Kimberling City, MO, at the age of 82.

    Darlene had lived in the area the past 20 years coming from Blue Springs, MO.  She had worked as the secretary to the Financial Vice President of the Kansas City Star for 38 years.

    Darlene was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Paul Graham; brother, John Wetherla and sisters, Rosemary May and Elizabeth Shaffer.

    Survivors include many nieces and nephews and a host of friends.

    A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, March 6, 2010 at Stumpff Chapel-South, Kimberling City, MO with Jerry Jenkins officiating.  Cremation was under the direction of Stumpff Funeral Homes. 

Obituary – Sharon Josephine Satterfield

    Sharon Josephine Satterfield, Blue Eye, MO, daughter of Frank and Margaret (Snyder) Serio, was born November 20, 1940 in Marinette, WI and departed this life February 25, 2010, in her home, at the age of 69.

    Sharon was united in marriage to Billy Satterfield on October 6, 1962 and they had made their home in the area the past four years coming from Decatur, MI.  She was of the Lutheran faith.

    Survivors include: her husband, Bill of the home; son, Jeffery Satterfield and wife, Corey of Cleveland, TX; daughter, Karen Lang and fiancé, Michael Doyle of Wilmington, IL; four grandchildren, Sharon, Shawnee, Samantha and Jessie and a host of other relatives and friends.

    No services are planned.  Cremation was under the direction of Stumpff Funeral Home-South, Kimberling City.

Obituary – Brad T. Branstetter

    Brad T. Branstetter, Aurora, MO, son of Otis and Treva (Wilson) Branstetter was born September 5, 1953 in Aurora, MO and departed this life February 25, 2010, in his home, at the age of 56.

    Brad was a rancher and a lifelong resident of the area.  He was a very loving and caring person and will be greatly missed by his family.  Brad was of the Baptist faith.

    Survivors include: his mother, Treva Sparks and husband, Caleb of Crane; wife, Susie Branstetter of the home; three sons, Daren Branstetter and wife, Candy of Aurora, Brian Branstetter and wife, Lynda of Hurley and Arin Branstetter of Crane; two brothers, Otis Lee Branstetter and wife, Tonya of Crane and Steve Branstetter and wife, Georgetta of Aurora; half-sister, Sara Branstetter of Aurora; half-brother, John Branstetter of Aurora; two granddaughters, Lexie and Callie Branstetter and a host of other relatives and friends.

   Graveside services were held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, February 27, 2010 at Mars Hill Cemetery, Crane with Rev. Bob Allmon officiating under the direction of Manlove-Stumpff Funeral Home, Crane.

Obituary – Larry Joe Smith

    Larry Joe Smith, Crane, MO, son of Joe and Blanche (Gatton) Smith was born March 16, 1946 in Anacortes, WA and departed this life February 21, 2010 in St. John’s Hospital, Springfield, MO, at the age of 63.

    Larry was a retired truck driver working for Associated Grocers for 32 years and a lifelong resident of the area.  He was a member of the Crane First Baptist Church and a U. S. Navy veteran.

    Survivors include: his mother, Blanche Clevenger and husband, Willard of Hurley; wife, Brenda Smith of the home; son, Larry Joe Smith, Jr. and wife, Tessa of Reeds Spring; daughter, Robin Cary and husband, Travis of Oak Grove, AR; brother, Randy Smith of Vilonia, AR; 4 grandchildren, Sydney Cary, Nicholas Cary, Austin Smith and Marcus Smith and a host of other relatives and friends.

    Funeral services were held at 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, February 24, 2010 at Morning Star Baptist Church, Crane with Gary Stewart and Rob Barringer officiating.  Burial was in Nolan Cemetery under the direction of Manlove-Stumpff Funeral Home, Crane.

       The family has requested memorial contributions to the American Cancer Society.

Obituary – William A. Baker

    William A. Baker, Reeds Spring, MO, son of Lynn and Ruth (Sportsman) Baker was born July 31, 1943 in Galena, MO and departed this life February 20, 2010 at Skaggs Community Hospital, Branson, MO, at the age of 66.

    William was a retired mechanic and a lifelong resident of the area.  He was a U. S. Army veteran.  William was a very caring person, would do anything for anyone and would give a friend the shirt off his back.  He was a man of great faith with a philosophy of forgive and forget.  William was a jokester who loved a good laugh.

    William was preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Ruth Evelyn Baker and grandson, Daniel Rhoades.

    Survivors include: three daughters, Genie Faught and husband, Mitchell of Oak Grove, AR, Vickie Meetze of Billings, MO and Melissa Becker and husband, Casey of Springfield, MO; two brothers, Roger Baker of Arlington, S.D. and Eafe Baker of Lebanon, MO; four sisters, Caroline Hammers of Springfield, Muriel Lowrance of Conway, Mae Lewallen of Reeds Spring and Donna Baker-Bass of Branson; 8 grandchildren, Dusten Faught, Stephanie Baker, Randal Allison, Christian Long, Brandon Meetze, Dakota Brown, Dalton Brown and Daisy Brown and a host of other relatives and friends.

    A memorial service was held at 2:00 p.m., Friday, February 26, 2010 at Stumpff Chapel-South, Kimberling City with Rev. Jack Keithley officiating.  Cremation was under the direction of Stumpff Funeral Homes.

Obituary – Hugh S. Brown

    Hugh S. Brown, Kimberling City, MO, son of Ralph Leo and Marguerite (Sweeney) Brown, was born May 21, 1922 in Chicago, IL and departed this life February 18, 2010 in Tablerock Healthcare Center, at the age of 87.

    Hugh married Dorothy May Cohee in Chicago, IL on December 24, 1941 and they had made their home in the area the past 8 years coming from Peru, IN.  He attended Peru High School, was a member of the St. Charles Catholic Church where he made his first communion in 1931 and was confirmed in 1933.  Hugh was a U. S. Army-Air Force veteran and was a retired Santa Fe Railroad employee.

    Survivors include: his wife, Dorothy May; one daughter, Dixie Johnson and husband, Dennis of Kimberling City; five grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren and a host of other relatives and friends.

    Hugh was preceded in death by his parents; one son, Joseph Steven Brown; two brothers, Ralph and Homer Brown and three sisters, Lola Butzin, Katherine White and Edith Ramer.

    A celebration of life service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, February 20, 2010 at the Eikenberry-Eddy Funeral Home in Peru, IN with burial in Ever Rest Memorial Park, Cass County, IN. 

    Local arrangements were under the direction of Stumpff Funeral Home-South, Kimberling City.

    Memorial donations may be made to the American Cancer Society.

Obituary – Eugene Floyd Blevins

    Eugene Floyd Blevins, Reeds Spring, MO, son of Arles and Mayma (Johnson) Blevins was born April 9, 1929 in James Township, MO and departed this life February 15, 2010, in his home, at the age of 80.

    Eugene was united in marriage to Elfriede Kolbe on July 6, 1978.  He was a lifelong resident of the area.  Eugene was a member of the Reeds Spring Free Pentecostal Church.

    Eugene was preceded in death by his parents and son, Donald.

    Survivors include: his wife, Elfriede of the home; two sons, Danny Jay Blevins and wife, Junie of Reeds Spring and Eddie Kolbe and wife Kersten of Germany; six daughters, Anita Maples and husband, Terry of Spokane, Regina Sorensen and husband, Mel of Joplin, Beatrice Foster and husband, Monte of Ozark, Patricia Berry and husband, Terry of Aurora, Rosemary Hillbrand and husband, Helmut of Germany and Sylvia Bormuth of Germany; two brothers, Ray Blevins and wife, Francis of Reeds Spring and Bud Blevins and wife, Shirley of Reeds Spring; 18 grandchildren; 8 great grandchildren and a host of other relatives and friends.

    Funeral services were held at 2:00 p.m., Friday, February 19, 2010 at Stumpff Chapel-South, Kimberling City with Johnnie Holt officiating.  Burial was in Yocum Pond Cemetery, Reeds Spring under the direction of Stumpff Funeral Homes.

Obituary – Glenda “Diane” Brooks

    Glenda “Diane” Brooks, Republic, MO, daughter of Raymond and Euvella (Hedrick) Wells was born September 16, 1954 in Springfield, MO and departed this life February 14, 2010 in Cox Medical Center South, Springfield, MO, at the age of 55.

    Diane was united in marriage to Mark Brooks on January 25, 1992.  She was raised and lived most of her life in the Stone County area.

Diane owned and operated Little Toots Daycare Center in Republic and served as a Cub Scout Leader for Pack 74 for 6 years.

  Survivors include: her mother, Euvella Newman of Republic; husband, Mark of Republic; two sons, Justin and Mitchell Brooks both of the home; step-son, Mark Brooks, Jr. and wife, Allison of Republic; three daughters, Melissa Gutting of Reeds Spring, Lisa Kearney-Doyle and husband, Kevin of Branson, Cindy Brown and husband, David of Springfield; two step-daughters, Renee Eades and husband, Andy of Platte City and Mandy Fuller of Kansas City; one sister, Carolyn Strohm of St. Louis; 9 grandchildren and a host of other relatives and friends.

    Funeral services were held at 10:00 a.m., Thursday, February 18, 2010 at Stumpff Chapel-South, Kimberling City with Jerry Jenkins officiating.  Burial was in Yocum Pond Cemetery, Reeds Spring under the direction of Stumpff Funeral Homes.

        In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established at Great Southern Bank for Justin and Mitchell Brooks.

Obituary – David Charles Krusell

    David Charles Krusell, Reeds Spring, Mo, son of Glen and Carolyn (Williamson) Krusell was born November 10, 1942 in Trenton, MI and departed this life February 13, 2010, in his home, at the age of 67.

    David was united in marriage to Ruth Ballard on November 23, 1963 and they had made their home in the area the past 35 years coming from Kansas City, MO.  He had worked at Silver Dollar City and a former member of Horse Creek Band and many other bands.  David was a U. S. Air Force veteran.

    David was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Karen Sue McGraw.

    Survivors include: his wife, Rab of the home; half brother, Patrick Murphy of Springfield, MA and a host of other relatives and friends.

    No services are planned at this time.  Cremation was under the direction of Stumpff Funeral Home-South, Kimberling City.

    The family has requested memorial contributions to Skaggs Hospice.

Obituary – Richard “Rick” Earl Phalen

    Richard “Rick” Earl Phalen, Kimberling City, MO, son of James and Margaret (Dauderman) Phalen was born April 17, 1974 in Springfield, MO and departed this life February 14, 2010, at the age of 35.

    Rick was united in marriage to Cindy Nichols on July 21, 1995.  He was a lifelong resident of the area.  Rick was employed at Silver Dollar City as a welder.

    Survivors include: his father, James Phalen and wife, Barbara of Highlandville; mother, Margaret Wommack and husband, Ray of Kimberling City: wife, Cindy of the home; son, Brett and daughter, Hannah both of the home; mother-in-law, Katie Nichols of Kimberling City; half brother, David Phalen of Reeds Spring; three sisters, Sherry Jenkins and husband, Chris of Forsyth, Terri Winchester and husband, Mike of Springfield and Bobbie Steele of Nixa and a host of other relatives and friends.

    Memorial services were held at 1:00 p.m., Wednesday, February 17, 2010 at First Christian Church, Kimberling City with Jerry Jenkins officiating.  Cremation was under the direction of Stumpff Funeral Home-South, Kimberling City.

    In lieu of flowers, a trust fund, in the name of Phalen Family Trust, has been established at Ozark Mountain Bank.

Obituary – C. V. “Hoppy” Hopper

    C. V. “Hoppy” Hopper, Galena, MO, son of George and Hannah (Mills) Hopper was born October 4, 1922 in Reeds Spring, MO and departed this life February 10, 2010, in his home, at the age of 87.

    Hoppy was lifelong resident of the area.  Before retiring, he worked for Phillips Petroleum Company as a crane operator.  Hoppy was a member of the Assembly of God.

    Hoppy was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Elmer and Leon and two great-grandchildren, Haley and Heather Reed.

    Survivors include: his wife, Rosemary of the home; son, RC “Happy” Hopper and wife, Cecilia of Reeds Spring; daughter, Judy Hopper Reed and husband, Eldon of Reeds Spring; sister, Hazel Sisser of Columbia; 7 grandchildren, Christina Hopper, Christopher Hopper, Ryan Hopper, Rachel Hopper Highfill, Robert Trenton Reed, William Ray Reed and Lesa Reed Caskey; 10 great-grandchildren, Richard Gress, Kayla Gress, Jeremy McAllister, Elizabeth McAllister, Jordan McAllister, Kristle Caskey, Abbie Rose Caskey, Jessica Hannah Reed, McKinna Reed and Keara Caskey and a host of other relatives and friends.

    Funeral services were held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, February 13, 2010 at Stumpff Chapel-South, Kimberling City with Larry Kackley officiating.  Burial was in Yocum Pond Cemetery, Reeds Spring under the direction of Stumpff Funeral Homes.

        In lieu of flowers, the family has requested memorial contributions to Hospice Compassus. 

Obituary – Vance Edward Shipman

    Vance “Shippy” Shipman, Crane, MO, son of Loy and Lenora (Davis) Shipman was born October 11, 1926 in Yellville, AR and departed this life February 9, 2010, in Cox Medical Center South, Springfield, MO, at the age of 83.

    Shippy was a lifelong resident of the area.  Before retiring, he worked as a telegrapher for the Missouri Pacific Railroad.  He was a U. S. Army veteran having served during World War II.  Shippy was a member of the Republic Baptist Church.

    Shippy was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Betty and three brothers.

    Survivors include: daughter, Linda Miles and husband, David of Webb City; four brothers, Zell, Dwight, Kenneth and Billy Joe; two sisters, Mary Sue and Rose Nell; three grandchildren, Crystal Burkhart, John David Miles and Justin William Miles; eight great-grandchildren, Whitney, Matthew, Alexis, Taylor, Emily, Austin, Isabella and Griffin; a very special friend, Shirley Henry; Dewayne Moreland, who was like a son, and a host of other relatives and friends.

    Funeral services were held at 12:00 p.m., Friday, February 12, 2010 at Manlove-Stumpff Chapel, Crane with Rev. Bob Allmon officiating.  Burial was in Crane Community Cemetery under the direction of Stumpff Funeral Homes.

Obituary – Inez L. Hicks

    Inez L. Hicks, Galena, MO, daughter of Joshua and Peggy (Bilyue) Jenkins was born October 13, 1909 in Stone County, MO, and departed this life February 6, 2010 in Ozark Mountain Regional Healthcare, Crane, MO, at the age of 100.

    Inez was a homemaker and a lifelong resident of the area.  She married Chester Myres in 1929 and Rosco Hicks in 1934.  Inez was a member of the Christian Union Church.

    Inez was preceded in death by her parents and husbands, Chester and Rosco.

    Survivors include: two sons, Dallas Lee Hicks and wife, Barbara of Walnut Grove and Warren Riley Hicks and wife, Terry of Fair Grove; five daughters, Donna Jean Martin and Pauline Hedrick both of Galena, Ruby Helen Bowling and husband, Charles of Crane, Anna Mae Allen and husband, Wayne of Jenkins and Edna Rehlander and husband, Jerry of Waterloo, IA; one sister, Helen Walker of Osceola; 25 grandchildren; 44 great-grandchildren; 16 great-great-grandchildren and a host of other relatives and friends.

    Funeral services were held at 10:00 a.m., Wednesday, February 10, 2010 at Manlove-Stumpff Chapel, Crane with Joe Wolven officiating.  Burial was in Jones-Chastain Cemetery under the direction of Stumpff Funeral Homes.

Obituary-Joseph R. Czechowski

    Joseph R. Czechowski, Kimberling City, MO, son of Joseph and Clara (Engel) Czechowski was born November 29, 1927 in Cicero, IL and departed this life February 5, 2010, in his home, at the age of 82.

     Before retiring and moving to the area in 1994, Joe had worked as a police officer in Cicero, IL.  He was a U. S. Navy veteran.

    Survivors include: his wife, Nellie of the home; son, Joseph of Naperville, IL; daughter, Donna Leone of Orland Park, IL; two sisters, Grace Jordan and Evilan Haigh; four grandchildren, Joseph Pench, Aaron Pench, Amanda Czechowski and Jennifer Hammock; two great grandchildren, Amelia Pench and Joey Pench and a host of other relatives and friends.

    No local services are planned. Arrangements were under the direction of Stumpff Funeral Home-South, Kimberling City.

Obituary – William “Bill” Parten

    William “Bill” Parten, Kimberling City, MO, son of Kenneth and Jan (Huffman) Parten was born May 13, 1956 in El Dorado, KS.  He won his battle with cancer, going home to be with Jesus, on February 2, 2010, at the age of 53, with family and friends by his side.

    Bill had lived in the area the past 13 years coming from Great Bend, KS.  After moving to Kimberling City, Bill and Linda “Lyn” started their family business, Specialized Marine, which will pass to future generations.  He was a very loving and giving person and everyone he met was considered family. 

    Bill was a wonderful son, husband, father, brother and a special grandfather known affectingly as “Papa Bill”.   He will be deeply missed by his family.

    Survivors include: his parents, Kenneth and Jan Parten of St. John, KS; his wife, Linda “Lyn” of Kimberling City; son, Tyson Parten and wife, Kristy of Kimberling City; daughter, Mandy McMurdo and husband, Brian of Kimberling City; sister, Kim Sallee and husband, Jim of West Points, MS; grandchildren, Tyler and Faith and a host of other relatives and friends.

    Funeral services were held at 1:00 p.m., Saturday, February 6, 2010 at First Christian Church in Kimberling City with Jim Sallee officiating.  Burial was in Pinecrest Cemetery under the direction of Stumpff Funeral Home-South, Kimberling City.

       In lieu of flowers, a memorial for Bill has been set up at Table Rock Community Bank, P. O. Box 1090, Kimberling City, MO. 65686.

Obituary – Belinda A. Sanchez

    Belinda A. Sanchez, Galena, MO, daughter of William and Debbie (Hailey) Evans was born September 8, 1973 in Dallas, TX and departed this life February 1, 2010, in her home, at the age of 36.

    Belinda was a homemaker and had lived in the area the past 6 years coming from Dallas, TX. 

    Survivors include: her mother, Debbie Evans of Galena; husband, Dana Sanchez of Galena; three sons, Andrew Evans, Caleb Sanchez and Dana Sanchez III all of the home; one daughter, Stephanie Sanchez of the home; four brothers, Blaine, Shane and Chance Evans all of the State of Texas; Brian Evans of Crane; one sister, Tiqua Puga of Crane and a host of other relatives and friends.

    Funeral services were held at 1:00 p.m., Saturday, February 6, 2010 at Manlove-Stumpff Funeral Home, Crane with Rev. Bob Sharp officiating.  Burial was in Galena Cemetery under the direction Stumpff Funeral Homes.

Obituary – Kenneth Wayne Smith, Jr.

    Kenneth Wayne Smith, Jr., Kimberling City, MO, son of Kenneth and Dixie (Moore) Smith was born November 26, 1945 in St. Louis, MO and departed this life January 29, 2010 in Skaggs Community Hospital, Branson, MO, at the age of 64.

    Kenneth was united in marriage to Carol Rosel on December 31, 1996 and they had made their home in the area the past 2 years coming from St. Louis.  He had worked for All Star Trucking Company in Pacific, MO.  Kenneth was a member of the Mason Lodge and the Elks Lodge.  He was a U. S. army veteran.

    Survivors include: his father, Kenneth W. Smith, Sr. and wife, Grayce of Lindale, TX; wife, Carol of the home; one son, Ross Smith of The State of Arizona; three daughters, Holly Crafts and husband, Mike of St. Charles, MO, Kimberlee Wright of St. Louis, MO and Cindy Mize and husband, Rob of Columbia, MO; two sisters, Dixie Lee Wieser and husband, Randall of Chesterfield, MO and Barbara Tod and husband, Robert of St. Louis County; five grandchildren, Dylan, Eden, Chloe, Will and Hayden and a host of other relatives and friends.

    A memorial service was held at 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, February 2, 2010 at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery in St. Louis, MO.  Cremation was under the direction of Stumpff Funeral Home-South, Kimberling City. 

    In lieu of flowers, the family has requested memorial contributions to the Kimberling City Elks Lodge 2505.

Obituary – Norma Jean Kirk

    Norma Jean Kirk, Lampe, MO, daughter of Clarence and Flossie (Hunter) Essary was born April 8, 1937 in Mt. Judy, AR and departed this life January 26, 2010, at the age of 72.

    Norma was a homemaker and a lifelong resident of the area.  She was of the Christian faith.

    Survivors include: one son, Walter Dahms and wife, Laura of Lampe; one daughter, Stephanie Howerton of Berryville, AR; one brother, Dennis Essary and wife, Fairy of Monett; three grandchildren, Steven Howerton, Jake Dahms and Ariana White; two great-grandchildren, Dustin and Josh Lovell and a host of other relatives and friends.

    A memorial service will be held at a later date.  Cremation was under the direction of Stumpff Funeral Home-South, Kimberling City.

Obituary – William Samuel Walker

    William Samuel Walker, Cape Fair, MO, son of Melvin and Effie (Osgood) Walker was born November 3, 1946 in Haverhill, MA and departed this life January 30, 2010, at his home, at the age of 63.

    William was united in marriage to Harlene Joy Fruchey on September 14, 1968 and they had made their home in the area the past 5 years coming from Azusa, CA.  He was a U. S. Navy veteran having served from 1964 to 1970 and received the National Defense Service Medal.  William was a member of the Masonic Lodge and the American Legion.

    Survivors include: his wife, Joy of the home; one son, William Patrick Walker of San Gabriel, CA; one daughter, Heidi Deanne Walker of Cape Fair; two brothers, Paul and Russell; two sisters, Jackie and Helen; three grandchildren, Billy, Matthew and Kaylie and a host of other relatives and friends.

    A graveside service was held at 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, February 3, 2010 at Missouri Veterans Cemetery, Springfield under the direction of Stumpff Funeral Home-South, Kimberling City.

Obituary – Albert Leroy Brookings

    Albert Leroy Brookings, Crane, MO, son of Arthur and Iva (Edwards) Freeland Brookings was born July 6, 1921 in Portland, Maine and departed this life January 28, 2010, in his home, at the age of 88.

    Albert was united in marriage to Shirleen Sweatt on December 20, 1991 and he had lived in the area the past 20 years coming from Spokane, WA.  He was a retired landscaper and a U. S. Navy veteran.

    Survivors include: his wife, Shirleen of the home; six sons, Jeffrey Hobart Frew of Newark, TX, William Arthur Brookings of Owensboro, KY, Edward Leroy Brookings of Nixa, MO, Jerry Reginald Poe of Morgan City, LA, Joseph Newton Frew of Branson West, MO and James Gregory Frew; two daughters, Ione Dines of Marshfield, MO and Julia Colleen Frew of Denton, TX; three brothers-in-law, Alfred Franklin Sweatt, David Ray Sweatt and Roger Dale Sweatt; father-in-law, Alfred Hobert Sweatt; two sisters-in-law, Nancy M. Sweatt and Donna Brookings; 13 grandchildren; 24 great-grandchildren; 4 great-great-grandchildren and a host of other relatives and friends.

    No services are planned.  Cremation was under the direction of Manlove-Stumpff Funeral Home, Crane.

Obituary – Jason Judson Jankowski

    Jason Judson Jankowski, Reeds Spring, MO, son of Eugene and Carol (Burt) Jankowski was born February 24, 1975 in Evanston, IL and departed this life January 28, 2010 in his home at the age of 34.

    Jason had lived in the area the past four years coming from Chicago, IL.  He was of the Christian faith.

    Jason was preceded in death by his mother and brother Matthew Fitzgerald Kennedy.

    Survivors include: one sister, Julie Jankowski of Reeds Spring and a father in Chicago and a host of other relatives and friends.

    No services are planned.  Cremation was under the direction of Stumpff Funeral Home-South, Kimberling City.

Obituary – Wyaneda Marie Eutsler

    Wyaneda Marie Eutsler, Galena, MO, daughter of Wesley and Vernie (Clifton) Stephens was born May 11, 1926 in Stone County, MO and departed this life, to be with her loving husband, on Saturday, January 23, 2010, at the age of 83 years and 9 months.

    Wyaneda was united in marriage to Jack Eutsler on August 16, 1941.  She was a lifelong resident of Stone County.  Wyaneda was a retired seamstress and also worked for many years at the Stone County Canning Factory.

    Wyaneda was preceded in death by her husband; parents; two brothers and one sister.

    Survivors include: one son, Ray Dean Eutsler and wife, Arlyne; one daughter, Carol Price and husband, Larry all of Galena; 5 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren and a host of other relatives and friends.

    Funeral services were held at 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, January 27, 2010 at 65 Full Gospel, Reeds Spring with Bill Rice officiating.  Burial was in Eisenhour Cemetery under the direction of Manlove-Stumpff Funeral Home, Crane.

Obituary – Rueben Gerald Bork

    Rueben Gerald Bork, Branson, MO, son of Otto and Anita (Woltman) Bork was born November 30, 1936 in Columbus, WI and departed this life January 22, 2010, in his home, at the age of 73.

    Rueben was united in marriage to Carolyn Ann Niebuhr on November 30, 1989 and she preceded him in death on April 17, 2004.

    Rueben was a construction worker and had lived in the area the past 9 years coming from Fall River, WI.  He attended Zion Lutheran Church in Springfield.

    Survivors include: two daughters, Gerrie Waldon and husband, Mike of Burleson, TX and Michele Gaudes and husband, Jeff of Cedarburg, WI; two step-children, Melissa Borde and husband, Jon of Rio, WI and Scott Packel and wife, Denise of DeForest, WI; two sisters, Evie Schumacher and husband, Rod and Ruth Disrud and husband, Phil; one brother, Alfred Bork and wife, Rita; two grandchildren, Mickaela and Annabelle Waldon; two step-granddaughters, Heather and Sara Borde; one step-grandson, Jacob Packel and a host of other relatives and friends.

    A memorial service was held at 12:00 p.m., Thursday, January 28, 2010 at Zion Lutheran Church, Springfield, MO with Pastor Edwin Lehmann officiating.  Cremation was under the direction of Stumpff Funeral Home-South, Kimberling City.

Obituary – Margaret K. Evenson

    Margaret K. Evenson, Branson West, MO, daughter of Rudolph and Margaret (Stepp) Iseli was born May 5, 1925 in Astoria, OR and departed this life, January 17, 2010, in her daughter’s home, at the age of 84.

    Margaret had lived in the area the past 10 years coming from Wichita, KS.  She was a retired real estate agent and had worked at H & R Block the past 20 years.

    Margaret was preceded in death by her parents and husband, Eric.

    Survivors include: one son, Eric A. Evenson, II of Branson, MO; two daughters, Susan Stokes of Branson West, MO and Sally Seminoff of Olathe, KS; four grandchildren, Erica Mincks, Marc Stokes, Scott Seminoff and Caroline Evenson and a host of other relatives and friends.

    Funeral services were held at 6:00 p.m., Wednesday, January 20, 2010 at Stumpff Chapel-South, Kimberling City, MO with Father Kermit Smith and Erica Mincks officiating.  Entombment was at 10:30 a.m., Friday, January 22, 2010 at Old Mission Mausoleum, 3424 East 21^st Street, Wichita, KS.

    In lieu of flowers, the family has requested memorial contributions to the American Cancer Society.

Obituary – Beatrice “Bea” Standish

    Beatrice “Bea” Standish, Galena, MO, daughter of Will and Minnie (Morris) Foster was born December 22, 1926 in Cape Fair, MO and departed this life January 15, 2010 in Cox Medical Center South, Springfield, MO, at the age of 83.

    Bea was a homemaker and a lifelong residence of the area.  She enjoyed doing needlework and quilting and loved making many pillowcases for family and friends.  Bea was a member of Keystone Baptist Church.

    Bea was preceded in death by her parents and husband, Eldred.

    Survivors include: four daughters, Norma Branstetter of Aurora, Martha Larkin and husband, David of Aurora, Carla Boyd of Galena, KS and Dawn Whitmer and husband, Lance of Forsyth; one brother, Robert Foster of Cape Fair; one sister, Loretta Arnold of Taft, CA; daughter-in-law, Nancy Standish of Galena; 20 grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; 4 great- great- grandchildren and a host of other relatives and friends.

    Funeral services were held at 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, January 20, 2010 at Manlove-Stumpff Chapel, Crane with Joe Wolven officiating.  Burial was in Yocum Pond Cemetery, Reeds Spring under the direction of Stumpff Funeral Homes.

Obituary –Mary Arlene (Wilson) Asher

   Mary Arlene (Wilson) Asher, Cape Fair, MO, daughter of Noah and Zyta (Brown) Wilson, was born November 11, 1915 in Barry County, MO and departed this life January 15, 2010 at Ozark Mountain Regional Healthcare, Crane, MO, surrounded by several family members, at the age of 94 years, 2 months and 4 days.

    Mary was a homemaker and a lifelong resident of the area.  She was united in marriage to Vergle Willis Asher on August 28, 1937and he preceded her in death on August 17, 1997.  Mary was also preceded in death by her parents; three brothers and four sisters.

    Survivors include: one son, Willis J. D. Asher and his wife, Phyllis of Cape Fair; one grandson, James Asher and his wife, Shari of Monett; great-granddaughters, Aleyna Marie and Jamison Hailey Asher of Monett; one brother, Leon Wilson and his wife, Anna of Aurora; two sisters, Luciell Gold of Jenkins and Treva Sparks and her husband, Caleb of Crane; brother-in-law, Walker Carney of Crane and many nieces and nephews.

    A Graveside service was held at 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, January 19, 2010 at Old Carney Cemetery with Rev. Jack Keithley officiating under the direction of Manlove-Stumpff Funeral Home, Crane.

        In lieu of flowers, the family has requested memorial contributions to Grant Patrick Trust Fund.

Obituary – Alton C. Crawford

    Alton C. Crawford, Lampe, MO, was born June 11, 1955 and departed this life January 12, 2010, at the age of 54.

    Al was united in marriage to Treva Parton Keithley on September 10, 2004. He was a minister and attended Highview Assembly of God Church where he also was in charge of Angelfood Ministries.   Al loved the Lord with all his heart and he was a wonderful husband, Dad and Papa.  He was employed by D & K Adventures Trucking.

    Survivors include: his wife, Treva of Lampe; one son, Alex Keithley and wife Staci of Lampe; three daughters, April Keithley of Lampe, Amy McCreary and husband, Jason of Oak Grove, AR and Chelsea Beard of Joplin; five grandchildren, McKenzie McCreary, Jayden McCreary, Matthew Keithley, Riley Crawford and Riot Beard and a host of other relatives and friends that will miss him deeply.

   Funeral services were held at 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, January 19, 2010 at Highview Assembly of God in Lampe with Pastor Roger Ely and Rev. Darrell Roberts officiating.  Burial was in Blue Eye Cemetery under the direction of Stumpff Funeral Home-South, Kimberling City.

Obituary – Betty C. Lewis

    Betty C. Lewis, Kimberling City, MO, daughter of William and Florence (Millspaugh) Terry, was born December 6, 1938 in Oklahoma City, OK and departed this life January 13, 2010, in her home, at the age of 71.

    Betty was united in marriage to Stanley Lewis on October 13, 1972 and they had made their home in the area the past 20 years coming from Kansas City, MO.  She had worked for Famous Footwear in Branson as the area manager.  Betty was a member of the Eastern Star.

    Betty was preceded in death by her parents; sister, Jeanne Scarberry and granddaughter, Dawna Carpenter.

    Survivors include: her husband, Stanley; three daughters, Sherrell Brittian and husband, Lee of PA, Vickie Goins of TX and Marcia Bell and husband, Ron of MO; one brother, Philip Terry of OK; five grandchildren, Jeffrey, Jason, Laramy and Benjamin Brittian and Emilie Bell; five great grandchildren, Dawna Brittian, Jeffrey and Jared Yates and Sherri and Shayla Carpenter and a host of other relatives and friends.

    Funeral services were held at 11:00 a.m., Monday, January 18, 2010 at Stumpff Chapel-South, Kimberling City with Jerry Jenkins officiating.  Burial was in Philibert Cemetery under the direction of Stumpff Funeral Homes.

Obituary – Milton Carl Joseph

    Milton Carl Joseph, Branson West, MO, son of Milton and Juanita (Osborne) Joseph was born June 2, 1927, in Kansas City, KS, and departed this life January 7, 2010, in his home, at the age of 82.

    Milton was united in marriage to Jo Anne Bowden on August 5, 1949 and they had made their home in the area the past 6 years coming from Santee, CA. He was retired from the U. S. Navy and received the Navy Good Conduct Medal, China Service Ribbon and National Defense Service Ribbon.  Milton was a member of the VFW and a member of Friends of Bill W.  He also was a member of Our Lady of the Cove Catholic Church in Kimberling City. 

    Milton was preceded in death by his parents.

    Survivors include: his wife, Jo Anne of Branson West; one son, Daniel Carl Joseph of San Diego, CA; one daughter, Jennifer Meza and husband, Wes of LeMesa, CA; two brothers, John Joseph and wife, Walda of Blue Eye, MO and Joseph Lee Joseph of Kansas City; KS; mother-in-law, Anna Chaney; sister-in-law, Kathleen Pettigrew; three grandchildren, Joseph Meza, Stfanie Meza and Sarah Simpson; nephew, Lyn Faulkner; niece, Linda Faulkner and a host of other relatives and friends.

    A memorial service was held at 1:00 p.m., Friday, January 15, 2010 at Stumpff Chapel-South, Kimberling City with Wes Simpson, Lyn Faulkner and Linda Faulkner officiating.  Cremation was under the direction of Stumpff Funeral Homes.

Obituary – Peggy A. Myers

    Peggy A. Myers, Kimberling City, MO, daughter of Harold and Doris (Smith) Davis was born May 25, 1927 in Fresno, CA and departed this life January 5, 2010, in her home, at the age of 82.

    Peggy was a homemaker and had lived in the area the past year coming from Yuma, AZ.  She was a member of the Church of the Brethren.

    Survivors include: her husband, Donald of Kimberling City; one son, Brad Myers of Auberry, CA; one daughter, Sue Ann Orlando of Kimberling City; 8 grandchildren; 6 great-grandchildren and a host of other relatives and friends.

    Memorial services were held at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, January 9, 2010 at Stumpff Chapel-South, Kimberling City with Buddy Horn officiating.  Cremation was under the direction of Stumpff Funeral Homes.

Obituary – Emma Jean Brown

    Emma Jean Brown, Galena, MO, daughter of Jonathan and Bertha (Bullen) Beavers was born August 27, 1924 in Cotter, AR and departed this life January 3, 2010 in Ozark Mountain Regional Healthcare Center, Crane, MO, at the age of 85.

   Emma was a homemaker and a lifelong resident of the area.  She was a volunteer for the Food Pantry in Crane, the Habitat for Humanity and a monthly contributor to the Stone County Republican.  Emma was a member of the Galena Assembly of God. 

    Emma was preceded in death by her parents and husband, J. W. Gordon Brown.

    Survivors include: one son, Jerry Gordon Brown of Galena; one granddaughter, Lori Munhollon of Nixa; three great-grandchildren, Lauren Crump, Jonas Crump and Landon Munhollon and a host of other relatives and friends.

    No services are planned.  Cremation was under the direction of Manlove-Stumpff Funeral Home, Crane.

Obituary – Luther R. Hurt

    Luther R. Hurt, Branson West, MO, son of Thomas and Anne Hurt was born December 31, 1909 in Centerville, MO and departed this life, January 2, 2010 in Tablerock Healthcare, Kimberling City, MO, at the age of 100.

    Luther was a retired butcher and had lived in the area the past 38 years coming from St. Louis.  He was a member of the Talking Rock Road Baptist Church.

    Luther was preceded in death by his parents and wife, Carrie.

    Survivors include: one son, Raymond L. Hurt of St. Louis, MO; two step-daughters, Wanda Nadeau of Waterloo, IL and Peggy Hopewell of Cahokia, IL; 6 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; 4 great-great-grandchildren and a host of other relatives and friends.

    A memorial service was held at 1:00 p.m., Saturday, January 9, 2010 at Talking Rock Road Baptist Church in Branson West with Pastor Delbert Davis officiating.  Burial was in Pinecrest Cemetery under the direction of Stumpff Funeral Home-South, Kimberling City.

Obituary – Nelda Mathilda Weber

    Nelda Mathilda Weber, Reeds Spring, MO, daughter of Ernst and Lydia (Lungwitz) Boehme, was born June 19, 1915 in Whittenberg, MO and departed this life January 1, 2010, in St. John’s Hospital, Springfield, MO, at the age of 94.

    Nelda was a homemaker and had lived in the area the past 8 years coming from Fenton, MO.  She was a member of the Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church and a member of the Lutheran Women’s Missionary League.

    Nelda was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Eldor; son, Raymond Weber; sisters, Ida Bachman, Lucille Crews and Olga Oberndorfer; brothers, Arnor Boehme, Reinhold Boehme and Walter Boehme and grandson, Keith Weber.

    Survivors include: one son, Clifford Weber and wife, Barbara Horn of Galena; one daughter, Joyce Nuckolls and husband, Desi of Reeds Spring; 11 grandchildren; 22 great grandchildren; 1 great great grandchild and a host of other relatives and friends.

    Funeral services were held at 2:30 p.m., Monday, January 4, 2010 at Stumpff Chapel-South, Kimberling City with Pastor Richard Futrell officiating under the direction of Stumpff Funeral Home-South, Kimberling City.  Burial was in Our Redeemer Cemetery in Affton, MO.

    In lieu of flowers, the family has requested memorial contributions to Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church.

Obituary – Betty Low Bowling

    Betty Lou (Scott) Bowling, Galena, MO, was born April 6, 1927 to John and Eulalla (Woodhouse) Scott.  She left her earthly home in the arms of Jesus, at the age of 82, surrounded by loved ones, in her home on January 1, 2010.

    Betty was united in marriage to Joe Felix Bowling on September 8, 1944 and he preceded her in death on November 19, 1998.  She was also preceded in death by her parents; son, Daryl Ray; two brothers, Jerry and Eddie Scott and son-in-law, Gary Daugherty.

    Survivors include: four daughters, Sharon and John Kirby of Aurora, Linda and Denny Wolf of Jenkins, Brenda Daugherty of Galena and Johnette and Randy Ellingsworth of Reeds Spring; three sons, Eddie and Debbie Bowling of Galena, Dale and Donna Bowling of Springfield, Marty and Stacey Bowling of Walnut Shade; daughter-in-law, JoEtta Bowling of Spokane; 16 grandchildren; 17 great grandchildren; four sisters, Bonnie Clevenger, JoAnn Ellingsworth, Patsy Bond and Cindy Scott; two brothers, Larry Scott and Bob Scott and a host of other relatives and friends.

    Betty’s joy in life was caring for her family and always putting them first.  Sunday dinners were spent together in her home with lots of love, laughter and meals prepared by Mom/Granny.  Betty was loved and will be greatly missed by all who were blessed to have known her.

    Funeral services were held at 1:00 p.m., Monday, January 4, 2010 at Bowling Chapel with Doyle Russell and Hospice Compassus Chaplain, Larry Kackley officiating.  Burial was in Bowling Chapel Cemetery under the direction of Manlove-Stumpff Funeral Home, Crane.

        In lieu of flowers, the family has requested memorial contributions to Bowling Chapel Cemetery.

Obituary – Vernon Gene Lemasters

    Vernon Gene Lemasters, known as Gene, Reeds Spring, MO, son of Everett and Ruth (Rigg) Lemasters was born February 5, 1927 in Middletown, MO and departed this life December 27, 2009 in Wedgewood Gardens at the age of 82.

    Gene was a retired salesman and had lived in the area the past 5 years coming from Springfield.  He enjoyed hunting and fishing and had been a former fishing guide on Tablerock Lake.  Gene was an avid golfer and made a hole in one at Grandview Golf Course on hole 9.  He was a U. S. Navy veteran having served in World War II.

    Gene was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Don Lemasters.

    Survivors include: three sons, Geoff Lemasters of Dallas, TX, Greg Lemasters of St. Louis, MO and Chris Lemasters of Springfield, MO; one daughter, Marty Kenny of Reeds Spring; 7 grandchildren; 3 great grandchildren and a host of other relatives and friends.

   Graveside services were held at 1:00 p.m., Thursday, December 31, 2009 at Middletown Cemetery in Middletown, MO under the direction of Stumpff Funeral Home-South, Kimberling City.

Obituary – Janis L. Hurst

    Janis L. Hurst, Galena, MO, daughter of John and Peggy (Ross) Tootelian was born September 20, 1946 in Chicago, IL and departed this life December 22, 2009, at the age of 63.

    Janis was united in marriage to Jack Hurst on September 17, 1975 and they had made their home in the area the past 8 years coming from Florida.  She was a sales associate at Wal-Mart in Branson West.  Janis hobbies were reading and knitting.  She attended George B. Armstrong Grade School, Naperville Community High School and graduated from Northern Illinois University.

    Survivors include: her husband, Jack and a host of other relatives and friends.

    No services are planned. Cremation was under the direction of Stumpff Funeral Home-South, Kimberling City.

Obituary – Sharon Carole Peters

    Sharon Carole Peters, Lampe, MO, daughter of Elmer and Ruth (Thomasson) Holland was born April 21, 1932 in St. Louis, MO and departed this life December 20, 2009 in Tablerock Healthcare, Kimberling City, at the age of 77.

    Sharon was a homemaker and had lived in the area the past 16 years coming from St. Louis.  She was a member of the Kimberling City United Methodist Church.

    Sharon was preceded in death by her parents; son, Clayton Elliot Denton; brother, Jerrell Holland and great-grandson, Fletcher Michael Denton.

    Survivors include: her husband, Charles of Lampe; two sons, Curtis Evan Denton and wife, Mary of Titusville, FL and Terry Peters and wife, Fran of Florissant, MO; two daughters, Arleta Kay Sobczak and husband, Nathaniel of Chicago, IL and Christine Volle and husband, David of New Melle, MO; 10 grandchildren, Kenneth Denton, Joseph Denton, Nathaniel Sobczak, Ethan Sobczak, Daniel Volle, Rebecca Volle, Samuel Volle, Josh Peters, Alex Peters, Acadia McGee and husband, Jeff and a host of other relatives and friends.

   A memorial service was held at 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, December 22, 2009 at Kimberling City United Methodist Church with Rev. Lynn Dyke and Rev. Sue Ewan officiating.  Cremation was under the direction of Stumpff Funeral Home-South, Kimberling City.

    In lieu of flowers, the family has requested memorial contributions to Kimberling City United Methodist Church.

Obituary – Donald “Donnie” T. Smith

    Donald “Donnie” T. Smith, Crane, MO, son of Haywood and Ruth (Angus) Smith, was born January 6, 1939, in Stone County, MO, and departed this life December 16, 2009, at Cox Medical Center South, Springfield, MO, at the age of 70 years, 11 months and 10 days.

    Donnie was a lifelong resident of the area.  He was retired from Tyson Foods where he had worked for 20 years.  Donnie was of the Baptist faith.

    Donnie was preceded in death by his parents and wife, Nedra.

    Survivors include: one son, Ronnie Smith and wife, Dana of Clever; two daughters, Pam Schaefer of Crane and Missy Scott and husband, Steven of Marionville; one sister, Betty Harris of Billings; 16 grandchildren, Eddie Brown, Ashley Trimmer, Cody Scott, Stevie Scott, Robin Scott, Brittany Scott, Darrin Scott, Travis Scott, Tasha Smith, Ryan Smith, Michael Smith, Marc Smith, Amy Keeling, Candy Davenport, Bridget Burt and Tiffany Schaefer; 11 great-grandchildren, Lauren Presley, Hunter Trimmer, Donavon Clanton, Nathan Scott, Shanti Scott, Tanner Shepard, Brett Keeling, Ashtin Keeling, Clay Davenport, Holden Davenport, Kendra Williams and a host of other relatives and friends.

    Funeral services were held at 11:00 a.m. Monday, December 21, 2009 at Bowling Chapel with Kevin Baker officiating.  Burial was in Bowling Chapel Cemetery under the direction of Manlove-Stumpff Funeral Home, Crane.

        In lieu of flowers, the family has requested memorial contributions to Bowling Chapel Cemetery.

Obituary – Beulah Kate Langston

    Beulah Kate Langston, Reeds Spring, MO, daughter of Fred and Mary (Hopper) Hedrick was born November 28, 1917 in Alpina Pass, AR and departed this life December 16, 2009, in Strafford Care Center, at the age of 92.

    Beulah was a homemaker and a lifelong resident of the area.  She was a wonderful mother and grandmother.  Beulah loved to cook and had cooked Saturday morning breakfast for the majority of Stone County.

    Beulah was preceded in death by her parents; husband, BF and four sisters.

    Survivors include; five sons, Jack Langston and wife, Fern of Hurley, MO, Gerald Langston and wife, Rosa of Liberty, MO, Danny Langston and wife, Billie of Harrison, AR, Mike Langston and wife, Lefa of Spokane, MO and Sam Langston and wife, Ann of Galena, MO; one daughter, Loretta Goodin and husband, Roy of Strafford, MO; three brothers, Kenneth Hedrick of Stafford, KS, Carl Hedrick of Greenwood, MO and Kirby Hedrick of Reeds Spring, MO; four sisters, Lenora Higgenbothan of Nixa, MO, Betty Burk of Aurora, MO, Reba Hendry of Gore, OK and Della Rea Ellingsworth of  Chillicothe, MO; 17 grandchildren; 29 great-grandchildren; 11 great-great-grandchildren and a host of other relatives and friends.

   Funeral services were held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, December 19, 2009 at Manlove-Stumpff Chapel, Crane with Joe Wolven officiating.  Burial was in Yocum Pond Cemetery, Reeds Spring under the direction of Stumpff Funeral Homes.

       In lieu of flowers, the family has requested memorial contributions to Yocum Pond Cemetery.

Obituary – Ken Grayson

    Ken Grayson, Blue Eye, MO, a longtime manager with the California Department of Social Services, died  December 11, 2009, at the of age 68,

 with complications of pancreatic cancer.

    Ken was born in Billings, Montana on June 9, 1941.  He attended high school and college in Southern California.  The focus of his career was helping people through his work in social programs, including child support enforcement, welfare reform, disability evaluation and food distribution.  Ken loved classic cars and always had a restoration project in progress.  In January 2006, Ken and his wife moved from Sacramento to the peace and beauty of the Ozarks where they were embraced by a warm and caring community, and most especially by their Blue Eye United Methodist Church family.

   Ken was preceded in death by his father, Stan; brother, Kurt and son, Scott.

    Survivors include: his wife, Nina; mother, Thelma; daughters, Kathryn and Nicole; son, Keith and his loving grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

    Ken was much loved and will be greatly missed by his family and friends.

    A memorial service was held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, January 9, 2010 at Blue Eye United Methodist Church.  Cremation was under the direction of Stumpff Funeral Home-South, Kimberling City.

    In lieu of flowers, the family would be grateful for donations made in Ken’s name to Christian Associates of Table Rock Lake to support the Community Food Pantry.

Obituary – Juanita Christina Harris

    Juanita Christina Harris, Crane, MO, daughter of W. E. and Cuma (Henson) Gentry was born March 9, 1919 in Cape Fair, MO and departed this life December 13, 2009, in her home, at the age of 90.

    Juanita was a homemaker and a lifelong resident of the area.  She was a member of the Crane Pitch Club and a member of Cape Fair Church of Christ.

   Juanita was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Cash; four brothers, Allen, Leo, Wayne and Don and sister, Cecil.

    Survivors include: one daughter, Helen Black of Topeka, KS; 3 grandchildren, Glenda Long and husband, David of Louisburg, KS, Bryon Black and wife, Dianna of Shawnee, OK and Stan Black and wife, Pam of Junction City, KS; 6 great-grandchildren, Julie Cain and husband, Aaron of Olathe, KS, Brad Long of Busan, S. Korea, Ashley Black of Perry, KS, Kirk Black, Garrett Rea and Lydia Rea all of Shawnee, OK; 2 great-great grandchildren, Jenna Cain and Wyatt Black and a host of other relatives and friends.

   Funeral services were held at 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, December 16, 2009 at Manlove-Stumpff Chapel, Crane with Johnny Arnold officiating.  Burial was in Cape Fair Cemetery under the direction of Stumpff Funeral Homes.

       In lieu of flowers, the family has requested memorial contributions to OATS.

Obituary – Lucian Dean “Luke” Gann

    Lucian Dean “Luke” Gann, Reeds Spring, MO, son of Roy and Margaret (Long) Gann was born December 23, 1927 in Pawhuska, OK and departed this life December 9, 2009, in his home, at the age of 81.

    Luke was united in marriage to Joan Henson on February 14, 1970 and they had made their home in the area the past 25 years coming from Bartlesville, OK.  Before retirement, Luke worked for the U. S. Postal Service in Bartlesville.  He served in the Army and Navy during World War II and the Korean War and was a member of the American Legion Post #69. Luke was a member of the Kimberling City United Methodist Church.

    Luke was preceded in death by his parents; son, Ronald Wayne Gann; two brothers, Melvin Gann and Robert Gann and sister, Bernice Malone.

    Survivors include: his wife, Joan; son, Michael Dean Gann and wife, Carol; daughter, Mary Kathleen Bohannan; four step-sons, Howard Evans, Mark Evans, Gary Evans and wife, Allyson and David Evans and wife, Patricia; one brother, Alvin Gann and wife, Patsy; one sister, Lucille Welch; 12 grandchildren, Tonia Kay McFeeters, Mary Helen Horton, Amanda Christine Gann, Linda Michelle Gann, Ritchie Scholes, Lillian Mary Nittler, Dale Bohannan, Sterling Evans, Lincoln Evans, Reagan Tedrow, Zane Evans and Zach Evans; 15 great grandchildren, Allen Michael Hicks, James Allen Hicks, Rachel Scholes, Amanda Scholes, Chelsea Michelle Hutchison, Lillimary Charleen Nittler, Aimee Lucille Nittler, Gavin Eugene Bohannan, Hartison Gentree Bohannan, Samantha Evans, Ashland Evans, Blaize Evans, Lincoln Paul Jr. Evans, Mitchell Dallas Tedrow and Sawyer Evans; one step-granddaughter, Itzel Hernandez; two step great-great-grandchildren, DaveeJo Benfer and Kara Marie and a host of friends.

    A memorial service was held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, December 12, 2009 at Kimberling City United Methodist Church with Rev. Lynn Dyke   officiating.  Interment was at 1:00 p.m., Monday at the Missouri Veterans Cemetery under the direction of Stumpff Funeral Home-South, Kimberling City.

    In lieu of flowers, the family has requested memorial contributions to the Luke Gann Memorial Fund at Kimberling City United Methodist Church.

Obituary – Nancy Lee Fitzsimmons

    Nancy Lee Fitzsimmons, Reeds Spring, MO, daughter of Harvey and Erma (Jacaway) Hayes was born February 11, 1945 in West Frankfort, IL and departed this life December 7, 2009 in her home, at the age of 64.

    Nancy had lived in the area the past 10 years coming from Colorado.  She had worked as a cashier for a retail store.

    Survivors include: one daughter, Christy Curtis and husband, John of Reeds Spring; two brothers, Danny Hayes and wife, Mary of Chicago, IL and Richard Schliep and wife, Jennie of Grand Lake, CO; three grandchildren, Lacey, Misty and Mickey and a host of other relatives and friends.

    No services are planned.  Cremation was under the direction of Stumpff Funeral Home-South, Kimberling City.

Obituary – James Tilford Day

    James Tilford Day, Branson West, MO, son of Ward and Emma (Wenzel) Day was born July 23, 1928 in Pretty Prairie, KS and departed this life December 4, 2009, in his home, at the age of 81.

    James had lived in the area the past four years coming from Hutchinson, KS.  He was a member of the VFW #1361 in Hutchinson and a U. S. Army veteran.  Before retiring, James was a refrigeration supervisor for Dillons.

    James was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Marion Day, three sisters, Rose Parkhurst, Louise Freeman and Tony Leglieter and grandson, Jeff Freeman.

    Survivors include: his wife, Brigitta; children, Vicki Freeman, Donna Egbert, Jim Day, Bill Day, Ralph Seat, Michell Ritterhouse and Norman Seat; brothers, Lester Day, William Ward Day, Jr. and Joe Day; sisters, Fran Wilson and Laura Duncin; 13 grandchildren, 11 great grandchildren and a host of other relatives and friends.

    A memorial service was held at 4:00 p.m., Thursday, December 10, 2009 at Stumpff Funeral Home-South, Kimberling City with Jerry Jenkins     officiating.  

    In lieu of flowers, the family has requested memorial contributions to the American Heart Association or Reeds Spring Animal Shelter. 

Obituary – Judith Goldsmith Putman

    Judith Goldsmith Putman, Blue Eye, MO, went to be with her God on December 6, 2009 at the age of 71.

    Judy was born September 6, 1938 in Winfield, Kansas.  She lived in Phillips, Texas until marrying Jim Putman on February 14, 1960.  Judy attended Texas Tech University and graduated from California State College in Sacramento, California.  She and Jim both retired from the State of California on December 28, 1998.  They moved to Blue Eye in September 2001.  She was an active member of her church and President of the Christian Women’s Fellowship.

    Survivors include: her husband, Jim; son, Keith, daughter-in-law, Kathy and grandson, Jake of Pasadena, California; sister, Mary Goldsmith of Eugene, Oregon; sister-in-law, Carolynn Miller and husband, Jim Miller of Granbury, Texas; brother-in-law, Terry Putman and wife, Mendy Putman of Colorado Springs, Colorado.

    Funeral services were held at 11:00 a.m., Thursday, December 10, 2009 at Pines Community Christian Church, Blue Eye under the direction of Stumpff Funeral Home-South, Kimberling City.

    Memorial contributions, if desired, can be made in Judy’s name to the Pines Community Christian Church, 7968 E. State Highway 86, Blue Eye, MO 65611

Obituary – Grant Lyle Patrick

    Grant Lyle Patrick, son of Ronnie and Audrey Jo (Rowe) Patrick was born June 6, 1992 in Springfield, MO and departed this life following a short illness December 4, 2009 in Cardinal Glennon Children’s Hospital, St. Louis, MO at the age of 17 years, 5 months and 28 days.

    Grant was a lifelong resident of Stone County and was a Junior at Reeds Spring High School where he had been a member of Stream Team and attended Culinary Arts at Gibson Technical Center.  Grant was a Christian and especially loved 4 wheeling and hunting on the farm.  He enjoyed baking cookies and zucchini bread for friends, boating in the summer, going to the beach and with a big heart, always doing for others.

    Grant is survived by his parents, Ronnie and Audrey Jo Patrick of Galena; a brother, Brent of Galena; paternal grandfather, I.B. Patrick and his wife, Nellie of Aurora; maternal grandparents, Howard and Louise Rowe of Cape Fair; maternal great grandfather, Delmar Rowe of Galena and a host of other relatives and friends.

   He was preceded in death by his paternal grandmother, Sharon Kay Patrick.

    Funeral services were held at 6:00 p.m. Tuesday, December 8, 2009 in First Christian Church, Kimberling City with Pastor John Barnes officiating.  Interment was a private family burial under the direction of Stumpff Funeral Home-South, Kimberling City.

        Memorial contributions may be made to the Grant Patrick Memorial Fund at any USBank or Ronald McDonald House.

Obituary – Ernest Wesley Daugherty

    Ernest Wesley Daugherty, Mt. Vernon, MO, son of Leroy and Elnora (Priest) Daugherty was born June 14, 1925 in Crane, MO, and departed this life December 4, 2009, in Missouri Veterans Home, at the age of 84.

   Ernest was a farmer and a lifelong resident of the area. He was a U. S. Navy veteran.

    Survivors include: four sons, Freddie Daugherty of Crane, Van Daugherty of Branson, Jesse Daugherty of Galena and Larry Daugherty of CA; four daughters, Charlotte Cobbler of Blue Eye, Elizabeth Stewart of Monett, Rebecca Brown of Monett and Sarah Carr of Springfield; one sister, Eva Bogdanoff of Springfield; 11 grandchildren and a host of other relatives and friends.

    Graveside services were held at 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, December 8, 2009 at Crane Community Cemetery with Kevn Stewart officiating under the direction of Manlove-Stumpff Funeral Home, Crane.

Obituary- Margaret Ann Elayer

    Margaret Ann Elayer, Galena, MO, was born December 4, 1930 in Kansas and departed this life November 30, 2009, in her home, at the age of 78.

    Margaret was united in marriage to Relfe Elayer on March 22, 1986.  She was a homemaker and had lived in the area the past 59 years coming from Kansas.

    Survivors include: her husband, Relfe; one brother, Alfred Sabine; one sister and a host of other relatives and friends.

    No services are planned.  Cremation was under the direction of Stumpff Funeral Home-South, Kimberling City.

Obituary – Howard Edward Keller

    Howard Edward Keller, Aurora, MO, son of Samual and Hazel (Bisby) Keller was born May 14, 1922 in Coalton, OK and departed this life November 28, 2009, in Ozark Mountain Regional Healthcare, Crane, MO, at the age of 87.

    Howard was a lifelong union printer and had lived in the area the past 21 years coming from Independence, MO.  He was a U. S. Navy veteran.  Howard was a member of the Rose Society in Springfield.

    Survivors include: two sons, Patrick Keller and Gregory Keller; one daughter, Kay Diane Keller; one brother, Patrick Keller; one sister, Mildred Edith Sweaney; two nephews, Stephen Sweaney and Michael Sweaney and a host of friends.

    No services are planned.  Cremation was under the direction of Manlove-Stumpff Funeral Home, Crane.

Obituary – Josephine W. Simmons

    Josephine W. Simmons, Kimberling City, MO, daughter of Arthur and Josephine (Denina) Wehl was born December 20, 1924 in New Orleans, LA and departed this life November 27, 2009, in Tablerock Healthcare, at the age of 84.

    Josephine was a homemaker and had lived in the area the past 2 ½ years from New Orleans, LA.  She was a member of the Our Lady of the Cove Catholic Church and was active with the Goodwill. 

    Josephine was preceded in death by her parents and husband, Lester.

    Survivors include: two sons, William Simmons and wife, Lenae and Jeffrey Simmons and wife, Melanie; three daughters, Holly Simmons, Leslie Simmons and Nancy Saucier and husband, David; one sister, Mary Breaux and husband, Jack; 7 grandchildren; 2 great grandchildren and a host of other relatives and friends.

    The family wishes to thank the staff of Wedgwood Gardens and Tablerock Healthcare for their kindness and excellent care.

    Memorial services will be held at a later date in New Orleans, LA.  Cremation was under the direction of Stumpff Funeral Home-South, Kimberling City.

Obituary – Hurchel Leon Sears

    Hurchel Leon Sears, Aurora, MO, son of Hurchel and Myrtle (Habenicht) Sears was born December 27, 1936 in Fort Cobb, OK and departed this life November 24, 2009 in St. John’s Hospital, Aurora, MO, at the age of 72.

    Hurchel was united in marriage to Sherrill Bailey on August 9, 1959 and they made their home in the area the past 15 years coming from Lockwood, MO.  He received his bachelor and masters degrees from Northeast Missouri State University in Kirksville and his specialist degree from Missouri State University in Springfield.  Hurchel was an educator in the Missouri Public Schools for 31 years working as a teacher, basketball coach and administrator at Ethel and Northwestern of Mendon.  He was a superintendent the last 12 years in Lockwood, before his retirement in 1990.  After retiring, he sold Blue Bird School buses for 12 years.  Hurchel was a member of the Missouri Association of School Administrations and a member of Elm Branch Christian Church.

    Hurchel was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Arnold Lloyd Sears and sister, Vergie Jackson.

    Survivors include: his wife, Sherrill of 50 years; three sons, Kevin Ray Sears and wife, Carla of Bella Vista, AR, Stacy Lance Sears and wife, Mary Beth of Salisbury, MO and Derek Todd Sears and wife, Missy of Lockwood, MO; 7 grandchildren, Jerad Sears and wife, Katy, Kayla Sears, Quinton Sears, Devyn Sears, M’Kenzie Sears, Brady Sears, Cassidy Sears and Ashley Stoll; 2 great grandchildren, Albany and Boston Sears.

    Funeral services were held at 11:00 a.m. Friday, November 27, 2009 in Elm Branch Christian Church, Aurora with Bro. David Martin and Jerry Jenkins officiating.  Burial was in Spring River Cemetery, Verona under the direction of Manlove-Stumpff Funeral Home, Crane.

    In lieu of flowers, the family has requested memorial contributions to Elm Branch Christian Church.

Obituary – James Oliver Staats

    James Oliver Staats, Kimberling City, MO, son of Christopher and Josephine Staats, was born March 19 1923 in Charleston, West Virginia and departed this life November 24, 2009, in Tablerock Healthcare, at the age of 86.

    James was retired from the U. S. Navy having served from 1942-1972.  He served in World War II, Korean War and the Vietnam War.  After retiring from the military, James was a hydraulic specialist for the shipyard.  He had lived in the area the past 18 years coming from LaMesa, CA.  James was a member of the American Legion Post #637.

    Survivors include: his wife, Anna; three sons, Steve Staats of Kimberling City, James O. Staats, Jr. of Little Rock, AR and William Staats of Temecula, CA; one daughter, Mary Jane Gonzales of LaMesa, CA; one sister, Arbuts Higgenbottom of Hurricane, West Virginia; 9 grandchildren; 3 great grandchildren and a host of other relatives and friends.

    Funeral services were held at 11:00 a.m., Monday, November 30, 2009 at Stumpff Chapel-South, Kimberling City with Jerry Jenkins officiating.  Burial was in Missouri Veterans Cemetery, Springfield under the direction of Stumpff Funeral Homes.

Obituary – Sally Cooper

    Sally Cooper, Kimberling City, MO, daughter of Kenneth and Alyce (Stout) Anderson was born March 1, 1945 in Modesto, CA and departed this life November 17, 2009, in her home, at the age of 64.

   Sally was a retired restaurant owner and had moved to the area from Stockton, CA.  She was a member of the Red Hat Society.

    Survivors include: her husband, Mark of the home; four daughters, Tanya Lynn Gover, Christie Kay Paquette, Kelly Rene Hasawy and Allison Harmon Lopez; one sister, Kay Alice Mettler; 11 grandchildren, 3 great grandchildren and a host of other relatives and friends.

    Services will be held in California.  Local arrangements were under the direction of Stumpff Funeral Home-South, Kimberling City

Obituary – Douglas A. Loe

    Douglas A. Loe, Galena, MO, son of Gary and Dolores (Hamblin) Loe was born June 10, 1963 in San Bernardino, CA and departed this life November 21, 2009 in Barnes Hospital, St. Louis, MO, at the age of 46.

    Douglas had lived in the area the past 8 years coming from Barstow, CA.  He had lived in Barstow for over 38 years and had worked for Barstow Cooler System.

    Survivors include: his mother, Lori Loe of Galena; one son, Brian Loe of the home; two brothers, Richard Loe of Albuquerque, NM and David Loe of Galena; one sister, Connie Chavis of Ozark; one granddaughter, Tabatha Loe of the home and a host of other relatives and friends.

    A memorial service was held at 1:00 p.m., Tuesday, November 24, 2009 at the Union Hill Church of Christ in Nixa with Jim Sneed officiating.  Burial was in Y Highway Cemetery, Galena under the direction of Stumpff Funeral Home-South, Kimberling City.

Obituary – Jonny L. Adams

    Jonny L. Adams, Crane, MO, son of Milton and Anna (Hearn) Adams was born December 3, 1950 in Sunnyside, WA and departed this life November 20, 2009, in his home, at the age of 59.

    Jonny was a painter and had lived in the area the past 1 ½ years coming from Sarasota, FL.  He was a U. S Marine veteran.

    Survivors include: his mother, Ann Parker of Tulsa, OK; sister, Mittie Sue Mitchell and husband, Tom of Crane and a host of other relatives and friends.

    No services are planned.  Cremation was under the direction of Manlove-Stumpff Funeral Home, Crane.

Obituary – Robert Lee “Bob” White

    Robert Lee “Bob” White, Branson West, MO, was born March 26, 1931 in Jackson County, MO, and died at 6:55 a.m. November 16, 2009, from heart-related problems and from injuries suffered in a recent one-car accident.

    Bob had been a musical entertainer most of his life under the stage name Frank James.  He recorded three albums, a number of singles and cassette tapes.  Bob appeared in a number of feature films and television shows, including the movie Butterfly with Stacy Keach and Pia Zadora.  He was a regular actor on many of the western shows of the 70’s such as Gunsmoke, Big Valley, Bonanza and many others.  He was one of the dancers in the Elvis movie, Blue Hawaii.  Bob and his wife, Dixie performed at Mutton Hollow and Shepherd of the Hills for several seasons and had the old theatre in downtown Branson for sometime.  Bob was a featured performer at the Golden Nugget in Las Vegas and did stunt work on many movies.  He worked with some of the biggest names in the movie and television industry such as John Carpenter, Charles Napier, Orsen Wells, Buck Flowers of Back to Future fame as the drunk on the park bench. 

    In 1985, Bob’s life changed forever.  While traveling from Denver, CO to Las Vegas, NV, Bob and his companion had a UFO encounter near the Colorado-Utah border where he recovered a metallic “object” he said fell from the UFO.  Since he was an active entertainer, he didn’t tell anyone his UFO story until after his retirement in 1996.  Bob was referred to the National Institute of Discovery Science (N.I.D.S.) by the UFO organization MUFON’s researcher Dr. John Carpenter after attending a UFO Conference in Eureka Springs, AR.  In 1996, Bob sent a piece of his UFO “object” to N.I.D.S. who hired the lab at New Mexico Tech to conduct a metallurgical analysis.  The scope of this analysis was limited, as explained to Bob by the New Mexico Tech scientist following its completion.  Cosgrove-Meurer Inc., producers of the popular 1990’s television show “Unsolved Mysteries” flew Bob to the Los Alamos National Laboratory in late 1996 for more testing of Bob’s object.  This analysis is controversial because Bob claimed that one of the scientists told Bob his UFO object was extraterrestrial and that Los Alamos kept a piece of his object.  Differences in the Los Alamos and New Mexico Tech analyses prompted additional scientific testing in the late 1990’s.  Bob made a sworn statement about the events of his UFO encounter and passed a conclusive polygraph test given by a police polygrapher in 1998.  In 2000, Bob was invited to present his story to the Rocky Mountain UFO Conference in Wyoming.  He was made aware of a recently-declassified Top Secret Army document that appeared to show an object identical to Bob’s in a 1940s Counter Intelligence Corps file named “Flying Saucer from Denmark”.  Bob received media recognition from newspapers, paranormal radio shows and national entertainment news shows.  In September 2000, Bob and his partner, Larry Cekander opened the Museum of the Unexplained in Reeds Spring with Bob as its director  The Museum and Bob were featured in nationwide media following Bob’s announcement that he would sell his UFO object for $10,000,000.  Bob and the Museum research team continued to perform tests on Bob’s UFO object and found that the object exposed dental x-ray film and was emitting an electro-magnetic field.  An announcement was made in 2003 that isotope abundance ratio tests for the element strontium fell within the range of two established Martian meteorites.  In 2004, Bob’s story was the season opener for the UK television show “Jane Goldman Investigates”.  The show hired a polygraph operator who was a member of the Grand Junction police department to administer another battery of polygraph tests and detected no deception by Bob.  Bob and his team of researchers have revisited the area of Bob’s UFO encounter several times and have produced a book and DVD documentary of Bob’s experiences.  The 2005 History Channel program “UFO Hunters” opened with a recreation of Bob’s encounter and a focus on the Army documents and Bob’s visit inside the Los Alamos National Laboratory.  This was the first time the documents and video inside Los Alamos was aired on national television.  Tests performed in 2007 showed Bob’s object emitted low level gamma rays and neutrons.  Bob’s story was covered in greater depth in 2008 episode of “UFO Hunters”.  Two scientists came forward and described the unique qualities of Bob’s UFO object, and footage of the object’s strange behavior in Laughlin, NY was shown.  The research team plans to carry on the research into the origin of Bob’s UFO object in Bob’s memory.  They promised Bob before he died that they would continue the search for the truth.

    Survivors include: his wife, Dixie of the home and his son, Mark of California.

    Services will be held at 7:00 p.m. Saturday, November 21, 2009 at Stumpff Chapel-South, Kimberling City with Jerry Jenkins officiating.  Burial will be in Missouri Veterans Cemetery, Springfield under the direction of Stumpff Funeral Homes.

    Visitation will be from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Saturday at the funeral home.

Obituary - Melvin LaRussell Crisp, Jr.

            Melvin LaRussell Crisp, Jr., Kimberling City, MO, was born on May 29, 1953 and peacefully passed away with his family and friends surrounding him on November 16, 2009 following a short illness.  He was 56 years old.

            Melvin was born in Ponca City, Oklahoma to Melvin L. Crisp, Sr. and Lenora Dennison Crisp. He attended Lincoln elementary, St. Mary’s, West Jr. High and graduated from Ponca City High School in 1971 where he was an outstanding wrestler and football player for the Ponca City Wildcats. He attended Oklahoma State University where he studied construction management and played football with the great Oklahoma State Cowboys.  He then joined the Navy where he trained as a Navy Seal and served during the Vietnam era.  After he was honorably discharged, he worked in Houston, Texas.

            In 1974 he married Hollie Ramsey and they returned to Ponca City to start their family and to work with his dad.  Mel owned several businesses in Ponca City including: the Mel Crisp Co., Construction Specialties, Buckner Trenching, and built many homes and commercial businesses in the area.  He was elected as one of “Three Outstanding Young Oklahoman’s” in 1986.  He invented and patented an exercise machine and was very proud of that accomplishment. He had a passion for coaching and spent several years coaching for the YMCA.  He especially enjoyed coaching his son Lance and his friends.

Mel and his family moved to Kimberling City, Missouri in 1992.  Mel owned the Kubota and Polaris dealership and also owned Countryside Construction and Development, Inc.   He served on the board of directors for the Stone County Boy’s and Girl’s Club and also on the Stone County Fire Protection District as Chairman of the Board for many years.  

Melvin’s many leadership abilities made a lasting impression on everyone he met.

            Melvin’s passion for boating on Table Rock Lake was a central focus of his life in Kimberling City but his first priority, pride, and joy were his grandchildren, Kolby and Karlie Crisp and Henry Windler.  As their “Papa”, Melvin delighted in the times they shared and he was fully involved in their lives until the end.  Melvin will be missed by many.

            Melvin is survived by his wife of 35 years Hollie, his children Lance Crisp and his wife Krissie of Kimberling City, MO, Carmen Obenhaus and her husband Adam of Ponca City, OK, and Clint Windler and his wife Melissa of Nashville, TN., his grandchildren Kolby and Karlie Crisp and Henry Windler,  his sisters Judy Enyart of Yukon, OK, Josephine Lewis and husband Ron of Oklahoma City, and Jean Anne Scott and her husband Melvin of Ponca City, as well as many nieces, nephews and extended family.  He was loved by all.

    A memorial service was held Wednesday, November 18, 2009 at the First Christian Church in Kimberling City.  Cremation was under the direction of Stumpff Funeral Home-South, Kimberling City.

    A memorial fund has been established at Table Rock Community Bank in Kimberling City, MO. 

Obituary – Carl Allen Heath

    Carl Allen Heath, Crane, MO, son of Allen and Lois (Olson) Heath was born May 20, 1952 in McKeesport, PA and departed this life November 16, 2009, in his home, at the age 57.

    Carl was a truck driver and had lived in the area the past 8 years coming from Storm Lake, IA. 

    Carl was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Lisa Farnsworth.

    Survivors include: two sons, Joshua Heath of Southern, CA and Matthew Heath of Las Vegas, NV; one daughter, Jennifer Heath of Tracy, CA; three brothers, Duane Heath of Fontana, CA, Kevin Heath of Rialto, CA and Darin Heath of Crane, MO; two sisters, Eileen Stuart of Crane, MO and Darla Jones of Las Vegas, NV; one half-sister, Doreen McCusker of Flagstaff, AZ; two grandchildren and a host of other relatives and friends.

    No services are planned.  Cremation was under the direction of Stumpff Funeral Home-South, Kimberling City.

Obituary – Lewis H. Custer

    Lewis H. Custer, Aurora, MO, son of Van and Mary (Hinson) Custer, was born October 5, 1919 in Barry County, MO and departed this life November 15, 2009, in his home, at the age of 90.

    Lewis was a lifelong resident of the area.  He was retired from Union Pacific Railroad and a farmer.  Lewis was a member of the Galena Masonic Lodge, Crane Eastern Star and Joplin Scottish Rite.

    Lewis was preceded in death by his parents; son, Lewis Custer, Jr.;

infant daughter; grandson, Steven; four brothers, Glen, Carl, Noel and Owen and two sisters Ethel and Esther.

    Survivors include: his wife, Mary of the home; brother, Donald Custer of Springfield; two sisters, Vena Berglund of Springfield. MO and Mary Lou Mundkowsky of Plano, TX; daughter-in-law, Darlene Custer of Aurora; two grandchildren, Stan Custer and wife, Carol of Aurora and Stacy Custer and wife, Kristin of Crane; four great grandchildren, Eric Custer, Stevie Custer, Addyson Custer and Rusty Brown; one great great grandchild, Reese Custer and a host of other relatives and friends.

    No services are planned.  Cremation was under the direction of Manlove-Stumpff Funeral Home, Crane.

Obituary – Elnora J. Trimmer

    Elnora J. Trimmer, Lampe, MO, daughter of William and Rose (Guthrie) Katzenstein was born November 29, 1920 in Pasadena, CA and departed this life November 15, 2009, in Point Lookout Nursing & Rehab, Hollister, MO, at the age of 88.

    Elnora was a homemaker and had lived in the area the past 28 years coming from Oceanside, CA.  She was of the Christian faith.

    Elnora was preceded in death by her parents and husband, Charles.

    Survivors include: one son, Jim Trimmer of Las Vegas, NE; four daughters, Florance Smith of Eureka Springs, AR, Jennifer Daceff of Harrison, AR, Donna Stephens of Blue Eye, MO and Charlene Elliott of Blue Eye, MO; one brother, Don Katzenstein of San Berdino, CA; 8 grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; 3 great-great-grandchildren and a host of other relatives and friends.

    No services are planned.  Cremation was under the direction of Stumpff Funeral Home-South, Kimberling City.

Obituary – James  “Jim”  Thomas McBride

    James   “Jim”   Thomas McBride, Cape Fair, MO, son of Thomas and Catherine (Morrison) McBride, was born February 21, 1955 in Chicago, IL, and departed this life November 15, 2009 in Cox Medical Center South, Springfield, MO, at the age of 54.

    Jim had lived in the area the past 4 years coming from Elgin, IL.  He was a U. S. Navy Seal veteran and received his training in California.  Jim was an avid gardener and enjoyed growing beautiful roses.  He loved cats and dogs and treated all of them as is own.  Jim was of the Catholic faith.

    Survivors include: his wife, Vicki of the home; three step-sons, Christopher Olsen, Jason Olsen and Michael Olsen all of Chicago, IL; two brother-in-laws, Van Grimes of Cape Fair and Randy Grimes of McHenry, IL: one sister, Cathy of Chicago, IL; two step-grandchildren, Michelle and Madison Olsen and a host of other relatives and friends.

    No services are planned.  Cremation was under the direction of Manlove-Stumpff Funeral Home, Crane.

Obituary – Merle Edith Peterson

    Merle E. Peterson, Reeds Spring, MO, daughter of Rolly and Ethel (Gabel) Workman, was born December 4, 1906 in Reeds Spring and departed this life November 11, 2009, in Wedgewood Gardens, Branson West, at the age of 102.

    Merle was a lifelong resident of the area and a retired cook.  She was of the Baptist faith.

    Survivors include: one daughter, Ferne Butler of Reeds Spring; three sisters, Mary Boland of Owensville, MO, Vera Wilson of Hartwell, GA and Maxine Scott of Seal Beach, CA; one granddaughter, Belinda Norman of Reeds Spring; one great-granddaughter, Amy Stalker of Republic; one great- great-grandson, Matthew Retherford of Republic and a host of other relatives and friends.

    Funeral services were held at 1:00 p.m., Saturday, November 14, 2009 at Stumpff Chapel-South, Kimberling City with Joe Wolven officiating.  Burial was in Yocum Pond Cemetery under the direction of Stumpff Funeral Homes.

        In lieu of flowers, the family has requested memorial contributions to Seasons Hospice.

Obituary – Esta Mears

    Esta Mears, Crane, MO, daughter of Emmett and Rosa (Mauter) Steinmetz, was born June 28, 1915 in Howenstine, Ohio and departed this life November 6, 2009, in Ozark Mountain Regional Healthcare, at the age of 94.

    Esta was a homemaker and had lived in the area since 2004 coming from Longmont, CO.  She was a member of the United Methodist Church.

    Esta was preceded in death by her parents and husband, John.

    Survivors include: son, Dwaine Walker of Blue Eye; grandson, Michael Walker of Greeley, CO; great-grandchild, Daunte Walker of Greeley, CO and a host of other relatives and friends.

    No local services are planned.  Cremation was under the direction of Manlove-Stumpff Funeral Home, Crane.

Obituary – Robert Samuel Doerr

    Robert Samuel Doerr, Kimberling City, MO, son of Earl and Ruth (McConnell) Doerr was born May 3, 1922 in Granite City, IL and departed this life November 6, 2009, in his home, at the age of 87.

    Robert was united in marriage to Freda Cason on July 3, 1985 and they had made their home in the area the past 11 ½ years coming from Seven Lakes, NC.  He was a U. S. Navy veteran having served from 1942-1946.  Robert was an avid golfer and made many friends while golfing at Holiday Hills in Branson. 

    Robert was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Lloyd Doerr; sister, Carol Dvorak and grandchild, Jodi Geddes.

    Survivors include: his wife, Freda of the home; three sons, David Doerr and wife, Pam of Milwaukee, WI, Rob Doerr of Clear Water, FL and Gene Housley of Truckee, CA; four daughters, Barbara Hansen and husband, Jack, Lynn Johnson and husband, Bill, Patti Lashock and husband, Al all of Rockford, IL and Sharon Kimbrough and husband, Wally of Denton, TX; one sister, Jean Kolman of Phoenix, AZ; 11 grandchildren, Mike Moore, Tim Moore, Chad Johnson, Ben Doerr, Sam Doerr, Chelsea Lashock, Mary Lashock, Whitney Lashock, Skipper Berend, Kara Kimbrough and Lauren Robinson; 13 great grandchildren and a host of other relatives and friends.

    A memorial service was held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, November 14, 2009 at St. Andrew Presbyterian Church in Kimberling City with Rev. Kimberly Cunningham and Bill Kennedy officiating.  Cremation was under the direction of Stumpff Funeral Home-South, Kimberling City.

    In lieu of flowers, the family has requested memorial contributions to the American Cancer Society or Hospice Compassus.

Obituary – Bessie Marie Bowling Foster

    Bessie Marie Bowling Foster, Elsey, MO, daughter of Benjamin and Anna (Raymond) Bowling, was born April 14, 1913, in a log cabin, in Elsey, MO and departed this life November 6, 2009, in Crane, MO, surrounded by many family and friends, at the age of 97.

    Bessie was a lifelong resident of Stone County and very well known for her beautiful piano playing and love of the Lord.  She was a devoted member of Elsey Pentecostal Church.  Bessie retired from working in the canning and garment factories and started working with her husband on the family farm.

    Bessie was united in marriage to Homer B. Foster on October 5, 1929 and to their union were three beautiful children, Sue Wayne Elaine, Dale Leroy and Donald Joe.

    Survivors include: one daughter, Sue Wayne Langley of Crane; one son, Joe Foster and wife, Lisa of Elsey; 10 grandchildren, Kenny and Tim Foster of Elsey, Denise Dickens and husband, Shelby of Crane, Cindy Dwyer and husband, Mike of Dryden Ontario, Canada, Larry Foster and wife, Tina of Elsey, Jeff Langley and wife, Deb of Mt. Vernon, John Langley and wife, Liz of Ash Grove, Joyce Garner and husband, Roy of Republic, Jim Langley and wife, Cheryl of Carthage, Jay Langley and wife, Angie of Nixa; two step-granddaughters, Alisha Gentry and husband, Shawn of Aurora, Leigh Moore and husband, Johnny of Elsey; two step-great grandsons; 23 great grandchildren; 8 great great grandchildren and a host of loving relatives and friends.

    Bessie was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Homer; son, Dale Leroy; two brothers, Charley and Ernest Bowling and sister, Bertha.

    Graveside services were held at 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, November 10, 2009 in Crane Community Cemetery with Pastor Pauline Evans officiating under the direction of Manlove-Stumpff Funeral Home, Crane.

       In lieu of flowers, the family has requested memorial contributions to the Alzheimer’s Association.

Obituary – Charles William Bergevin, Jr.

    Charles William Bergevin, Jr., Kimberling City, MO, son of Charles and Grace (Hansen) Bergevin was born June 21, 1941 in Red Wing, MN and departed this life November 5, 2009, in his home, at the age of 68.

    Charlie was united in marriage to Renee Weiner on May 17, 2006 and he had lived in the area the past 6 years coming from MN.  Before retiring, he worked at St. Thomas University as a Union Electrician supervisor.  Charlie was a member of the American Legion and the VFW.  He was a U. S. Navy veteran.

    Survivors include: his wife, Renee of the home; two sons, Charles W. Bergevin and wife, Nancy and Guy Bergevin and wife, Denise all of MN; one daughter, Belinda Hansen and husband, Steve of MN; one sister, Judy Maconelli of MN; 11 grandchildren and a host of other relatives and friends.

   A memorial service was held at 10:30 a.m., Wednesday, November 11, 2009 at the Lakewood Church in Reeds Spring with Rev. Cecil Todd officiating, with a reception, following the service. Cremation was under the direction of Stumpff Funeral Home-South, Kimberling City.

    Graveside services were held at 11:00 a.m., Friday, November 13, 2009 at Ft. Snelling National Cemetery in St. Paul/Minneapolis, MN with a reception following at Bier Stube in Hastings.

    In lieu of flowers, the family has requested memorial contributions to Skaggs Hospice.

Obituary – Ronald Gordon Hill

    Ronald “Ron” Gordon Hill, Reeds Spring, MO, son of Charles and Eunice (Francis) Hill, was born September 27, 1947 in Loma Linda, CA and departed this life November 3, 2009, in St. John’s Hospital, Springfield, MO, at the age of 62.

    Ron was united in marriage to Robbie Thomas on November 11, 1987 and they had made their home in the area the past 17 years coming from CA.  He was retired from Branson Tourism Center where he had worked as an accountant.  Ron was a U. S. Navy veteran.

    Ron was preceded in death by his parents; son, Ron Hill II and brother, Marian Hill.

    Survivors include: his wife, Robbie of the home; two daughters, Rhonda Stutz and Tita Olmendo and husband, Richard all of CA; two brothers, Charles Hill, Jr. and wife, Betty of CA and Gary Dean Hill of ID; two sisters, CharLetta Marowitz and husband, Ralph of NC and Louise Stroup and husband, Merrell of CA; 8 grandchildren, Desi Ree, Ashton, Ronnie III, Kylie Rose, Brandon, Makenna, Alexis and Caleb and a host of other relatives and friends.

    A living memorial was held at 4:00 p.m., Friday, November 13, 2009 at the Grand Plaza Hotel in Branson.  Cremation was under the direction of Stumpff Funeral Home-South, Kimberling City.

Obituary – Gordon Kenneth Anderson

    Gordon Kenneth Anderson, Kimberling City, MO, son of John and Svea (Aakeson) Anderson was born March 27, 1922 in Chicago, Il and departed this life November 1, 2009 in Skaggs Community Hospital, Branson, MO, at the age of 87.

    Gordon was united in marriage to Patricia Scanlan on June 12, 1948 and they had made their home in the area the past 22 years.  He was a U. S. Navy veteran having served in World War II in the construction battalion.  Gordon was a member of the Shiners Club, Lions Club and Masonic Lodge.  He helped to build the American Legion Post in Kimberling City.  Gordon was a member of the Kimberling City United Methodist Church.

    Survivors include: his wife, Patricia of Kimberling City; one son, Bruce Gordon Anderson of Kimberling City; three daughters, Sharon Marie Anderson and husband, Daniel Hubbell of Wayne, IL, Debra Jean Ebert and husband, Steven of Strum, WI and Sandra Lee Schley and husband, Bart of Oregon, WI; one brother, Marshall Anderson and wife, Peggy of Pentwater, MI; one sister, Barbara Anderson of Chicago, IL; six grandchildren, Erik, Joel, Shane, Shelley, Kristi and Kory; three great grandchildren, Collin, Dillon and Rachel and a host of other relatives and friends.

    Memorial services were held at 3:00 p.m., Thursday, November 5, 2009 at the residence, 182 Hoot Owl Point in Kimberling City.  Cremation was under the direction of Stumpff Funeral Home-South, Kimberling City.

Obituary – Margie Elaine Beasley

    Margie Elaine Beasley, Kimberling City, MO, daughter of James and Irene (Goodman) Fanguy was born January 30, 1924 in Lake Charles, LA and departed this life November 1, 2009, in Tablerock Healthcare, after a brief illness, at the age of 85.

    Margie had lived in the area the past 17 years coming from Orange, TX.  She had resided at Wedgewood Assisted Living in Branson West the past 6 years.  Margie was a retired secretary and bookkeeper.

    Margie was preceded in death by her parents and husband, Cortez.

    Survivors include: one son, Charles Schepp, Jr. of LA; one daughter, Irene Bonds and husband, Ray of Kimberling City; one granddaughter, Gina Kelley of Springfield; two great-grandchildren, Kynleigh and Elisha Kelley both of Springfield and a host of other relatives and friends.

    No services are planned.  Cremation was under the direction of Stumpff Funeral Home-South, Kimberling City.

Obituary – Michael Wayne Prater

    Michael Wayne Prater, St. Charles, MO, was born April 1, 1976 in St. Louis, MO and departed this life October 29, 2009, at the age of 33.

    Michael was united in marriage to Sharon Koogler on July 1, 2005 and they had made their home in St. Charles the past 8 years moving from St. Louis.  He was the assistant manager at FKG Oil.

    Survivors include: father, John Prater of House Springs; mother, Barbara Abbott and husband, Curtis of Crane; wife, Sharon Prater of St. Charles; son, Justin Prater; daughter, Hannah Prater both of the home; brother, Troy Prater of Crane and a host of other relatives and friends.

    Funeral services were held at 11:00 a.m., Thursday, November 5, 2009 in Manlove-Stumpff Chapel, Crane with Bruce Belin officiating.  Burial was in Crane Community Cemetery under the direction of Stumpff Funeral Homes.

       In lieu of flowers, the family has requested memorial contributions to Justin and Hannah Prater Educational Trust Fund, MADD or Back Stoppers.

Obituary – James H. Evans

    James H. Evans, Kimberling City, MO, son of James and Charlotte Evans was born November 14, 1921, in Malvern, IA and departed this life October 30, 2009, in Select Specialty Hospital, Springfield, MO, at the age of 87.

    James had lived in the area the past 21 years coming from England.  He was a retired Air Force major.  James was a member of the Kimberling City American Legion.

    Survivors include: his wife, Hazel Barbara Evans of Kimberling City; one son, James “Tony” Evans and wife, Judith of England; two daughters, Michelle Ockenden of Wales, UK and Dawn “Stevie” Plumb and husband, Terry of Reeds Spring; one brother, Ken Evans of Kansas City, MO; one sister, Mary Louise Downing of Des Moines, IA; 6 grandchildren; 3 great grandchildren and a host of other relatives.

    No services are planned.  Cremation was under the direction of Stumpff Funeral Home-South, Kimberling City. 

Obituary – LaVeta Coglizer Bryan

    LaVeta Coglizer Bryan, Lampe, MO, was born January 4, 1924 in Hollister, MO and departed this life October 30, 2009, at the age of 85.  LaVeta and Clarice were the only children of Roy and Mary Jackson.

    LaVeta spent most of her life in the area of the White River and fondly remembered many stories of the rich heritage of Southern Stone County and Tablerock Lake.

    LaVeta was the proud mother of two sons.  Charles Brent Horton, who preceded her in death, proudly serving his country in Vietnam.  Brent was born July 4, 1946, and was killed in action on September 4, 1967.  Curt Coglizer was born December 29, 1958, and he and his wife, Carrie and children, Evan, 22 and Callie, 19, have cherished their time with LaVeta and will always love “Nonnie.”  LaVeta’s life was enriched by the wonderful friends and neighbors of Briar Cliff Estates, where she resided for over 40 years.  She was an independent spirit who loved her view of the lake and the friends who stopped by.  She loved children and dogs and always had a toy and a treat ready. 

    LaVeta is survived by Curt, Carrie, Evan and Callie; Pat, her beloved niece and Rick, her nephew.

    Her family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to those neighbors who, by their care, allowed LaVeta the independence of home living until she was 85.  Special thanks to Tracy Friday , who was a Godly blessing to LaVeta and a friend beyond measure; the angels of Access Hospice; Connie Slaight, a daily visitor and trusted friend; and to the kind staff of Tablerock Healthcare, who by their care allowed LaVeta to spend her final months on her beloved Tablerock Lake.

    Funeral services were held at 3:00 p.m., Monday, November 2, 2009 at the First Christian Church in Kimberling City with Kevin Rusentrom officiating.  Burial was at 10:00 a.m., Tuesday in Ozark Memorial Park, Joplin under the direction of Stumpff Funeral Home-South, Kimberling City.

       In lieu of flowers, the family has requested memorial contributions to Access Hospice.

Obituary – Helen Marie Mueller

    Helen Marie Mueller, Branson, MO, daughter of Victor and Jean (Baker) Keller was born January 31, 1922 in Hutchinson, KS and departed this life October 29, 2009, in Ozark Mountain Healthcare, Crane, MO, at the age of 87.

    Helen was a homemaker and had lived in the area the past 40 years coming from Alaska.  In her free time, Helen enjoyed gardening and cooking.  She was a past member of the Indian Point Ladies Club.

    Survivors include: son, Patrick Mueller of Billings; daughter, Peggy Ann Hodge of Branson; grandson, Jeremy Michael Cooksey and a host of other relatives and friends.

    Memorial services were held at 10:00 a.m., Wednesday, November 4, 2009 at Stumpff Chapel-South, Kimberling City with Jerry Jenkins officiating.  Final disposition was cremation with burial in Evergreen Cemetery.

    In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made the American Diabetes Association or the Breast Cancer Foundation.

Obituary – Lloyd McKinley Fly

    Lloyd McKinley Fly, Galena, MO, son of Luther and Sally (Perkins) Fly was born February 19, 1922 in Stone County, MO and departed this life October 28, 2009 in Cox Medical Center South, Springfield, MO, at the age of 87.

    Lloyd was a retired farmer and carpenter and a lifelong resident of the area.  He was a member of Allen Church.

    Lloyd was preceded in death by his parents; son, Billy Joe Fly and daughter, Cosetta Luna.

    Survivors include: three brothers, Leroy Rex Fly of Nixa, Kenny Fly and wife, Rosanna of Aurora and Calvin Fly and wife, Shirley of Marionville; one sister, Rosemary Hopper and husband, Cleo of Galena; one step-brother, John Reser and wife, Kay of Shreveport, LA; one half-sister, Roselee Newman and husband, John of Exeter and a host of other relatives and friends.

    Funeral services were held at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, October 31, 2009 in Allen Church, Reeds Spring with RC “Happy” Hopper officiating.  Burial was in Yocum Pond Cemetery, Reeds Spring under the direction of Manlove-Stumpff Funeral Home, Crane.

Obituary – Rosella “Rosie” Brooks

    Rosella “Rosie” Brooks, Kimberling City, MO, daughter of Severt and Mary Erickson was born October 3, 1932 in Ames, Iowa and departed this life October 27, 2009, in Tablerock Healthcare, at the age of 77.

    Rosie was united in marriage to Howard Brooks on July 9, 1950 and they had made their home in the area the past 20 years coming from Ames, IA.  She was a lifelong housewife, mother, grandmother and great grandmother.  Rosie graduated from Zearing High School in 1950 and lived in the Ames area for 39 years. She moved to Kimberling City in 1989.

    Rosie was preceded in death by her parents; nine brothers and one sister.

    Survivors include: her husband, Howard of 59 years; two sons, Mike Brooks and wife, Carolyn and Dennis Brooks and wife, Nancy all of Ames, IA; one sister, Helen Knoll of Des Moines, IA; six grandchildren, Brian, Emily, Steven, Jessica, Allison and Kellee; four great-grandchildren, Grant, Gage, Gigi and Hunter and a host of other relatives and friends.

        Services will be held at a later date in Ames, IA.  Local arrangements were under the direction of Stumpff Funeral Home-South, Kimberling City, MO.

    In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the charity of you choice. 

Obituary – Ernest Brown, Sr.

    Ernest Brown, Sr., Galena, MO, son of Ike and Virginia (Stephens) Brown was born July 1, 1941 in Stone County, MO and departed this life October 13, 2009, at his home, at the age of 68.

    Ernest was a lifelong resident of the area.  He was a retired auto belt maker and a member of the Steel Workers Union 662.  Ernest was a member of Elsey Baptist Church.

    Ernest was preceded in death by his parents and wife, Shirley.

    Survivors include: five sons, Berry L. Brown and wife, Tracey, missionaries to Africa, Ernest Brown, Jr. and wife, Linda of Schell City, MO, David Gill and wife, Wanda of Henderson, NC, Nelson Gill and wife, Linda and Clint Gill and wife, Darlene all of NC; two brothers, Jack Brown and wife, Mary Ann of Conway, MO and Clifford Brown and wife, Avis of Galt, CA; two sisters, Edna “ Sue” Stockstill and husband, Alvin of Crane, MO and Bonnie Farley and husband, Virgil of Cape Fair, MO; several grandchildren and great grandchildren and a host of other relatives and friends.

    Funeral services were held at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, October 17, 2009 in Manlove-Stumpff Chapel, Crane with Bro. Herbert Ward officiating. Burial was Monday in Salem Cemetery, Clinton, MO under the direction of Stumpff Funeral Homes.

Obituary – Harold Gene See

    Harold Gene See, Cape Fair, MO, was born July 10, 1950 in Colorado and departed this life October 27, 2009, in his home, at the age of 59.

    Harold had lived in the area the past 2 years coming from Pea Ridge, AR. He was a construction worker and a U. S. Navy veteran.

    Survivors include: three sons, Eric Davis and wife, Shelly of OK, Bryan See and wife, Alisha and Nathan See and wife, Nikki all of AR; one daughter, Brandy Bass and husband, Josh of AR; one sister, Lillian Bledsoe and husband, Robert of KS; 6 grandchildren, Erica Davis, Chase Davis, Bayleigh Bass, Clayton Bass, Hannah See and Malachi See and a host of other relatives and friends.

   A memorial service was held at 11:00 a.m., Friday, October 30, 2009 at the New Life Christian Center in Centerton, AR.  Cremation was under the direction of Stumpff Funeral Home-South, Kimberling City, MO.

Obituary – Stacy Lynn Briggs

    Stacy Lynn Briggs, Galena, MO, daughter of Stephen and Linda (Smith) Atwell was born June 19, 1975 in Sacramento, CA and departed this life October 24, 2009 in Cox Medical Center South, Springfield, MO, at the age of 34.

    Stacy was united in marriage to Nathan Briggs on September 20, 2003 and she had lived in the area the past 16 years coming from Florida.  Stacy had worked at the Polo Outlet Store in Branson as the manager.  She was a member of the Kimberling City United Methodist Church and a member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles.

    Stacy was preceded in death by her brother, Stephen Atwell.

    Survivors include: her father, Stephen Atwell and wife, Joan of Texas; mother, Linda Barrett and husband, Mike of NC; husband, Nathan of Galena; son, Sabastain of the home and a host of other relatives and friends.

  Funeral services were held at 1:00 p.m., Thursday, October 29, 2009 at Kimberling City United Methodist Church with Rev. Sue Ewan and Rev. Lynn Dyke officiating.  Burial was in Yocum Pond Cemetery, Reeds Spring under the direction of Stumpff Funeral Home-South, Kimberling City.

      In lieu of flowers, the family has requested memorial contributions to the American Cancer Society.

Obituary – Terry Wayne Dillard

    Terry Wayne Dillard, Lampe, MO, son of James and Elizabeth (Reddick) Dillard was born December 18, 1944 in Desloge, MO and departed this life October 23, 2009, in his home, at the age of 64.

    Terry was united in marriage to Debbie Williams, December 31, 1982 and they had made their home in the area the past 19 years coming from Long Beach, CA.  He was the owner and operator of AOK Electric and a member of the American Paint Horses Association.

    Survivors include: his wife, Debbie of Lampe; three sons, Eric Dillard of Branson, David Dillard of Dupo, IL and Richard Adams and wife, Kristin of Blue Eye; two brothers, Donald Dillard and wife, Margaretha of TN and Charles Dillard of CA; several grandchildren and a host of other relatives and friends.

    Memorial services were held at 3:00 p.m., Sunday, October 25, 2009 at the Sky Harbor Resort in Lampe.  Cremation was under the direction of Stumpff Funeral Home-South, Kimberling City.

Obituary – Julia Ellen Vandenberg

    Julia Ellen Vandenberg, Lampe, MO, daughter of Robert and Grace (Radebaugh) Hoover was born March 27, 1926 in Hillsdale, MI and departed this life October 19, 2009, in her home, at the age of 83.

    Julia had lived in the area since 1995 coming from Fort Wayne, IN., where she owned K. Ellen Dance Theater Apparel for 18 years.  Julia was a business woman who really enjoyed being retired.  She was an animal advocate.

    Julia was preceded in death by her parents and husband, Jay.

    Survivors include: son, Kipling Vandenberg; daughter, Jaynee Vandenberg Peters and husband, Tom of Lampe and a host of other relatives and friends.

    Services were held in Hillsdale, MI.  Local arrangements were under the direction of Stumpff Funeral Home-South, Kimberling City.

Obituary-Helen McNeely Stumpff

    Helen Blythe McNeely Stumpff was born September 25, 1915, at Cato, MO., to the late Cleve and Celia Blythe and passed away Oct. 15, 2009, at age 94 in Carmichael, CA. Until she suffered a stroke in July 1995, Helen had been a lifelong resident of the Crane and Cassville communities. After her stroke, she moved to northern California to be near her daughter, Janice, and Janice's husband, Jim Lewis, of Fair Oaks, CA., and her granddaughters Angela Lewis Isaacs (Seth) of Albany, CA., and Shannon Muriel Vigil (Donald) of Berkeley, CA. Helen was the great-grandmother of Stella Isaacs, Cyrus Isaacs and Lila Vigil.

    Helen was preceded in death by her husband Glenn McNeely, her son Roger McNeely, her parents, and her only sister, Colleen Haddock, all of whom lived in the Crane and Marionville area. After Glenn's untimely death in 1970, Helen moved from her farm community to Cassville, and in 1991 married Gerald Stumpff. Helen and Gerald made their home in Cassville. Gerald passed away in 1994.

    Helen began her working life as a schoolteacher in one-room country schools where she taught as many as 40 students in grades one through eight. She was fond of telling how she taught at Mountain Home, also known as "Possum Trot." Her students called her "Miss Helen." She also taught school at Scholten, near the farm where she and Glenn lived for many years, and later at Clay Hill.

    Helen was baptized at an early age, and was a lifelong member of the Church of Christ. Helen was a "people person" who was known as a lovely hostess, a Sunday school teacher at the Scholten Church of Christ and a leader in 4-H clubs and other youth groups near Crane and Cassville.

    Immediately after World War II, Helen and Glenn provided a home and employment to a Polish refugee family with twin sons who had suffered in a German concentration camp during the war.

    Despite her disability after her stroke, Helen enjoyed her family, found her way into the hearts of those who cared for her, and made many new friends in California.

    Funeral services were held at 11 a.m. Saturday, October 24, 2009, at the Cassville Church of Christ, 1104 Mill Street, Cassville, under the direction of the Manlove-Stumpff Funeral Home, Crane. Interment was in  Clio Cemetery.

Obituary – Donald Richard Pegg

    Donald Richard Pegg, Branson West, MO, son of Fred and Grace (Burch) Pegg was born December 9, 1923 in Spokane, WA, and departed this life October 9, 2009, in his home, at the age of 85.

    Donald was a united in marriage to Margaret Calhoun on February 26, 1949 and they had made their home in the area the past 13 years coming from Phoenix, AZ.  Before retiring, he worked for United Airlines as a plant engineer and was a member of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers.  Donald was a World War II veteran having served in the U. S Army Air Corps., from 1942-1946.  While serving in the Army, he received the American Theater Service Medal, Asiatic Pacific Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal and the Victory Medal.  Donald was a member of the Solid Gospel Church.

    Donald was preceded in death by his parents and son, Richard Pegg.

    Survivors include: his wife, Margaret of Branson West; one daughter, Patti Franklyn and husband, Jim of Centerton, AR; three grandchildren, Tracy Pegg, When-Dee Morrison and Mike Franklyn; six great grandchildren, Evan Block, Ashley Block, Lauren Block, Maggie Morrison, Ralph Morrison and Olive Morrison and a host of other relatives and friends.

    Graveside services were held at 1:00 p.m., Friday, October 16, 2009 at the Missouri Veterans Cemetery in Springfield with Dave Hamner officiating under the direction of Stumpff Funeral Home-South, Kimberling City.

    In lieu of flowers, the family has requested memorial contributions to Access Hospice.

Obituary – Mildred Irene Booth

    Mildred Irene Booth, Crane, MO, daughter of Joseph and Gracie (Ragsdale) Hudgens was born November 25, 1930 in Noel, MO and departed this life October 6, 2009 in Ozark Mountain Regional Healthcare Center, at the age of 78.

    Mildred was a retired factory worker and had lived in the area the past 12 years coming from Anderson, MO.  She was a member of the Full Gospel Church.

    Mildred was preceded in death by her parents and three sisters, Bertha Walker, Joyce Carter and Lula Mae Boyd.

    Survivors include: her husband, Raymond of Marionville; two sons, Delbert Booth and wife, Diana of Crane and Tim Booth and wife, Laura of Clearfield, PA; two daughters, Loretta Combs and husband, Vernon of Farmington, AR and Charlotte Houk and husband, Stanley of Siloam Springs, AR; three brothers, Rex Hudgens and wife, Anita of Goodman, MO, A. V. Hudgens and wife, Beverly of Tulsa, OK and Lester Hudgens and wife, Shirley of Bartlesville, OK; one sister, Nydean Mock of Colorado Springs, CO; 17 grandchildren; 20 great grandchildren and a host of other relatives and friends.

    Funeral services were held at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, October 10, 2009 at Manlove-Stumpff Chapel, Crane with Julie Folk officiating.  Burial was in Maple Park Cemetery, Aurora under the direction of Stumpff Funeral Homes.

Obituary- Linda L. Dorman

    Linda L. Dorman, Cape Fair, MO, daughter of William and Marjorie (Parsons) Darrell was born October 31, 1939 in Springfield, MO and departed this life October 1, 2009, in St. John’s Hospital, Springfield, MO, at the age of 69.

    Linda was a retired administrative assistance and had lived in the area the past 17 years coming from Los Angeles, CA.  She was a member of Cape Fair Homemakers Club, Red Hats Club and the Cape Fair Senior Citizens.  Linda had served as a board member for the Southwest Missouri Office of Aging.  She was of the Christian faith.

    Linda was preceded in death by her parents and husband, Wesley Glen Dorman.

    Survivors include: one son, Christopher McAuliffe and wife, Luana of San Diego, CA; two step-sons, Mark Dorman of Los Angeles, CA and John Ziegenfuss of Oregon; one half-brother, Thomas Darrell and wife, Sandra of McKinleyville, CA; four grandchildren, Molly and Miles McAuliffe  and Michael and Matthew Dorman and a host of other relatives and friends.

    Funeral services were held at 2:30 p.m., Thursday, October 8, 2009 in Manlove-Stumpff Chapel, Crane with Rodney Peters officiating.  Burial was in Galena Cemetery under the direction of Stumpff Funeral Homes.

Obituary – Clayton Howard Delker

    Clayton Howard Delker, Aurora, MO, son of Clayton and Dora (Clark) Delker was born June 18, 1930 in Pratt, KS and departed this life October 4, 2009, in St. John’s Hospital, Springfield, MO, at the age of 79.

    Clayton was a welder and had lived in Aurora the past 20 years moving from Crane.  He was a member of the New Life Fellowship Church.

    Survivors include: his wife, Ernesteen of Aurora; two sons, David Delker and wife, Kay and John Delker and wife, Tina all of Aurora; one sister, Eva Allard and husband, Jim of Texas; cousin, Kenneth Willinger of Kansas City, KS; 8 grandchildren; 4 great-grandchildren and a host of other relatives and friends.

   Funeral services were held at 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, October 7, 2009 in Manlove-Stumpff Chapel, Crane with Rev. Bob Allmon officiating.  Final disposition was cremation, following the service.

Obituary – James William Ward

    James William Ward, Gladewater, TX, son of Jodie and Rosalee (Scott) Ward was born February 25, 1958 in Perryton, TX and departed this life October 2, 2009, in Cape Fair, MO, at the age of 51.

    James was preceded in death by his brother, Jodie Raymond Ward.

    Survivors include: his parents, Jodie and Rosalee Ward of Cape Fair; two brothers, David Lee Ward of Longview, TX and Matthew Scott Ward of Gladewater, TX; one sister, Shannon Marie Eeds of Longview, TX and a host of other relatives and friends.

    No services are planned.  Cremation was under the direction of Stumpff Funeral Home-South, Kimberling City.

Obituary – Charles M. Vowell

    Charles M. Vowell, Reeds Spring, MO, son of Charles and Bennie (Patridge) Vowell was born November 25, 1949 in Mississippi and departed this life October 1, 2009, in his home, at the age of 59.

    Mike was a salesman and had lived in the area the past 19 years coming from Drew, MS.  He was a member of the First Baptist Church in Blue Eye.

Mike was a National Guard veteran.

    Survivors include: one brother, Ricky Vowell of Baytown, TX; one sister, Sharon Jackson and husband, Bill of Kimberling City; three nieces, Jessica Vowell, Mary Jackson and Kaylee Jackson and a host of other relatives and friends.

  Funeral services were held at 10:00 a.m., Monday, October 5, 2009 at The First Baptist Church in Blue Eye with Rod VanGorkom and Freddie Blevins officiating.  Burial was in Blue Eye Cemetery under the direction of Stumpff Funeral Home-South, Kimberling City.