Donald Miller (56) Passes Away

 Donald David “Don” Miller, age 85 of Rossville, passed away on July 25, 2024. He was born on December 30, 1938 in Topeka, KS, the son of John C and Violet Miller. Don attended Willard Grade School and graduated from Rossville High School in 1956. After spending one year at K-State, he was called to join his father to run the family farm. 

Don married his high school sweetheart, Elizabeth “Betty” Miller on March 1, 1958. Don and Betty enjoyed 60 years of marriage, before Betty’s passing in 2018. Their marriage weathered the ups and downs of building the family farm and raising their 6 children.

Don’s dedication to the family farm was tremendous. His extraordinary work ethic and countless hours in the field/tractor/barn built the farm to where it could support 4 families - a rare feat for a family farm. Don was proud to pass his knowledge to his sons, David and Daniel, when they joined the farm after they graduated from college. Don also saw the unique skill sets that his sons could bring to the farm that would enhance the operation. He loved driving by fields that David had planted and commenting on how straight the rows were and reaping the benefits of David’s mechanical skills that could fix anything that was broken. He enjoyed watching Daniel successfully build out the feedlot feeding program that has multiplied its earnings many times over.

His children fondly remember spending time with Don on the farm - fixing fence, feeding cattle, working on 4-H projects, and other chores. Maybe not as fondly, they remember how ornery he could be. He loved to laugh, kid, tease and play practical jokes on his family and friends. He always had spearmint gum in his pocket and a joke or story to tell. In the small amount of time he wasn’t working, Don loved to join Betty in attending Rossville sporting events, even if they had no children or grandchildren to cheer on. 

He is preceded in death by his wife, Elizabeth “Betty” Miller and a son, David Miller.

He is survived by his 4 daughters - LuAnn Baumchen and husband Paul (Lawrence), Diana Iseman and husband Jim (Burlington), Suzanne Tull and husband Ronnie (Willard) , Sarah Meinershagen and husband Kevan (Lawrence); 1 son – Daniel Miller and wife Jennifer (Willard); a daughter-in-law – Noel Miller (Dover); as well as 14 Grandchildren and 7 (almost 8!) great-grandchildren. 

Don wished for a private burial next to his wife Betty at the family farm. A private graveside service was held for immediate family on Saturday, July 27. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be sent in his name to the Piper Funeral Home. All donations will be added to the “Don & Betty Miller Athletic Scholarship Fund”.

James Stadler (61) Passes Away

James Parr Stadler (Jim) of Silver Lake, Kansas went to be with his Lord on Monday, July 22, 2024. Jim was born February 15, 1943, in Bremerton, Washington, the son of George and Thora Stadler. He spent his adolescent days on a farm 3 miles SW of Rossville attending both grade school and high school in Rossville. Upon graduation from high school in 1961, Jim joined the USAF and was honorably discharged in 1965. 

Jim met his wife Warrene M. Glace March 5, 1965, and they were married in Topeka, Kansas March 5, 1966. Warrene survives along with their two adult children, Jay W. Stadler of Kansas City, Kansas and Jana R. DeLuca of Gulf Breeze, Florida. Also surviving are two grandchildren, Darren J. Skitt and Brooklyn DeLuca both of Gulf Breeze, Florida, a brother David Stadler of Rossville, and a sister Rose Brown (Fred) of Willard, Kansas. 

Jim worked for the Santa Fe Railroad for 30+ years retiring in 1995 when the Burlington Northern and Santa Fe Railroad joined forces to become BNSF. Jim was a member of the Silver Lake United Methodist Church since 1974 serving several administrative posts and also maintaining the mechanical and electrical systems for 20 years. From 2006, Jim has been a volunteer in re-plotting and mapping the two Rossville Township cemeteries: Rossville Cemetery and Franklin/Olive Branch Cemetery. 

Jim was preceded in death by three sisters, twin sisters Frances and Margaret in 1947 and Helen Huffman in 2006. Also preceding Jim in death was his father, George Stadler on September 17, 2004 and his mother Thora Stadler May 8, 2014.

Per Jim's wishes an inurnment will be held at the Rossville Cemetery with family and friends. There will be no memorial service. For those wishing to make a memorial contribution it’s suggested they be sent to the Silver Lake United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 188, Silver Lake, Kansas 66539.

George Bell Passes Away

 

George Lynn Bell, known for his hard work ethic, kind heart, and selfless nature, passed away on July 14, 2024, at Midland Hospice. Born on August 30, 1952, in Holton, KS, George’s legacy spans his successful career as an electrician and the proud owner of Bell Electric.

George's love for nature was evident throughout his life. He cherished moments spent fishing with his sons and grandchildren. His family fondly remembers his enthusiasm for Halloween, where he delighted in handing out treats to trick-or-treaters. Additionally, building forts out of boxes with his grandkids brought immense joy to both him and them. George's family recalls him not by specific actions or achievements but by the all-encompassing love he showered upon them.

Graduating from Holton High School in 1970, George excelled in athletics, playing basketball and baseball, and was a proud member of the HDT. He and his wife Nancy(Kranz) were married October 2nd, 1971, and celebrated over 52 years together. Additionally, he enlisted in the United States Navy Reserve that same year and was proudly stationed in Norfolk, Virginia. His commitment to service extended to being a member of the Jimmy Lillard Post 31 American Legion.

George's passion for sports continued well into his later years, as he played softball with remarkable skill and enthusiasm.  His dedication to the game was a testament to his enduring love for athletics and his ability to stay active and engaged with his community.

Beyond his professional and military achievements, George prioritized his family above all else. Nothing made him prouder than being a loving father and grandfather. One of the most significant gifts he bestowed upon his family was their farm, where they created countless memories through fishing, camping, and hunting adventures.

In every interaction, George had a remarkable ability to make others feel special. His easy-going nature, combined with unwavering kindness, created a haven for all who knew him. George's non-judgmental attitude and steadfast support made him the pillar of strength for his family.

George is survived by his loving wife Nancy Bell; siblings Carol Totten, Ron Bell, Barbara Diggs, and Brian Bell; sons Jason Bell and Michael Bell; and grandchildren Jonah Bell, Halle Bell, Taryn Bell, Trina Bell, and Isaac Bell. He is also remembered by deceased family members Roy Bell (father) and Jan Bell (mother).

While we mourn the loss of George Lynn Bell from our lives, we find solace in the countless memories he has left us with. His impact on all who knew him will never be forgotten. Rest in peace, George Lynn Bell - you were the best of us.

Instead of a formal service, George wanted to have a celebration of life.  This will occur on August 24th at 6-8pm at the Jimmy Lillard Post 31 American Legion in Rossville Kansas.  Please join his friends and family in honoring his incredible life.

Sherry Ann Taylor Passes Away (updated)

Sherry Ann Taylor, 67, of Rossville, Kansas, passed away peacefully in her sleep on June 28, 2024.

She was born on June 13, 1957, the daughter of Bill and Cloreen (Smith) Taylor in Topeka, KS.

Sherry was married to Michael Cowen and bore two children. They later divorced.

She was a very free spirit, an artist through and through in every way you could imagine. She was a writer, a photographer and an avid painter.

Sherry was rebellious with an enigmatic smile. She was a pillar of strength as she endured a life filled with trails and tribulations. She loved her family intensely.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her sister, Beth Baker.

She is survived by her loving daughter, Talia Cowen, son Joshua Cowen, three grandchildren Alexis, Zola and Maya, and brother-in-law, Randy Baker.