Diana (Morford) (70) Dolezilek Passes Away

 Diana L. Dolezilek, a member of the Holton community, passed away on June 26, 2023, at a hospital in Kansas City at the age of 71. 

Born on May 24, 1952, in Onaga to Rey E. and Patricia A. Cassity Morford, Diana was raised in the rural Delia area.  She attended High Prairie Country School and Delia Grade School before graduating from Rossville High School in 1970.  Diana later earned a degree in horticulture from Kaw Area Vo-Tech in Topeka. 

A devoted wife and mother, family was always the most important aspect of Diana's life.  She could often be found cheering on her children at their various activities and took great pride that all three of them graduated from college. She was incredibly creative, and used her many talents to show that devotion to her family. She would transform even the most ordinary materials into keepsakes for them all to treasure, including making memory quilts and other sewing and craft projects.

Diana spent her career first working at Shelter Insurance before dedicating herself to her role as a Para-Professional at Colorado Elementary School in Holton for over twenty years, where she helped nurture kindergarten students before retiring. 

Diana was an active member of Moravan Lodge No. 128, also known as the Bohemian Hall, and dedicated much of her time to baking kolaches to donate and working on projects to improve the grounds. She was also a part of the Rossville Alumni Association Scholarship Foundation where she served as Vice President for many years, as well as being involved with the Holton Jaycee-Jaynes and had served as president. Diana also dedicated her time to the Jackson County 4-H program for many years, especially while her children were involved, always helping them with the many projects they were working on. Diana lived a moral life that inspired others around her through her example and her service.

She was preceded in death by her parents and two brothers, David and William.

Diana married Robert Dolezilek in January of 1971 in Rossville.  They lived in Holton since 1975, where Robert survives.

Diana also leaves behind her three children:  Chris (Kathleen Heaney) Dolezilek and Shawn (Julie) Dolezilek, both of Topeka, and Julie Cordero of Kansas City, MO.  Further surviving relatives include a brother, Arthur Morford of Topeka; sisters, Deborah (Richard) Beasterfeld of Maple Hill and Jean Holt of Holton; sister-in-law, Nancy Morford of St. Marys; and a grandson, Gavin Christopher.

Funeral services for Diana will be held on July 1, 2023 at Piper Funeral Home at 2:00 P.M.  Diana will lie in state from 1:00 until service time.  Burial will follow the service at Czech Moravan Cemetery in Rossville. 

Memorial contributions can be made to the Moravan Lodge No. 128 or Hope Lodge - an organization run by the American Cancer Society providing lodging and transportation for those receiving treatment for cancer and sent in care of Piper Funeral Home.

Will Rossville Post Office Close?

The Rossville Post Office may be closing according to this Capital article.

https://cjonline-ks.newsmemory.com/?token=8b526f34acfb602043e49edecc2e5eaf_649d95a3_be58&selDate=20230629&msgid=23629iWiCM33F8D4LV6VSM0A4l3MKxUc

Rev. Douglas Phenix Passes Away

Reverend Douglas Phenix, a beloved and respected figure, passed away peacefully on June 24, 2023, in Topeka, Kansas. Born on December 23, 1941, in Kirkcaldy, Scotland. He was a guiding light and a pillar of strength for all who knew him.

Douglas was preceded in death by parents William and Mary Phenix, and first wife, Ann. He is survived by his sister Janice (Sam), former wife and longtime companion Gloria, sons David (Gina) and Duncan (Jamie), Grandson Ian (Ashley), and great-grandson Harrison.

Douglas attended school at Glasgow University in Scotland. receiving an Honors degree in chemistry and a Divinity degree. He earned a Masters Degree in Theology from Union Theological Seminary in New York City with the help of a Fullbright Fellowship. He then became a Church of Scotland minister serving three congregations. In 1980 he immigrated with wife Ann, and sons David and Duncan to the United States. He served several congregations. In St. Peter Minnesota at Union Presbyterian, Fairlplain Presbyterian in Benton Harbor Michigan, and spent the later part of his career as a minister at Potwin Presbyterian Church in Topeka, KS and also serving Presbyterian churches in Pratt, Holton, and Rossville/Delia KS.

Throughout his life, Reverend Phenix was dedicated to serving his community and spreading the message of love and compassion. His unwavering commitment to his faith and his congregations touched countless lives, inspiring many to follow in his footsteps. He was active in the Interfaith Ministerial Association, Doorstep, and Mother to Mother.

He had a life-long interest in issues of science and religion and was active in Kansas Citizens for Science. During the conflict over teaching evolution in Kansas public schools. Reverend Phenix testified in front of the Kansas Board of Education, and the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) sent a film to Potwin Church crew from the nightly news program "Newswatch" to interview him.

He loved music and was an accomplished pianist and accordion player. He had a beautiful bass voice and was active in the St. Peter Community Choir and the Topeka Festival Singers. He was an Associate Member of the Piano Technicians' Guild.

Despite the challenges he faced with Parkinson's Disease, Reverend Phenix remained steadfast and continued to make a difference in the lives of those around him. His resilience and courage in the face of adversity served as an example to all who knew him.

Reverend Phenix's legacy will live on through the numerous lives he impacted and the memories shared by his friends, family, and loved ones. His passing is a great loss, but his memory will continue to inspire and uplift all who were fortunate enough to know him.

As we remember Reverend Douglas Phenix, let us honor his life and his unwavering dedication to his faith and his community. His spirit will forever be a beacon of light, guiding us toward a brighter and more compassionate world.

A memorial service will be held at Potwin Presbyterian Church, 400 SW Washburn in Topeka on Sunday July 30, 2023 at 1:00PM..

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Kansas Citizens for Science or Midland Hospice.

John Ntsch Is 3A Softball Coach Of Year

Sports in Kansas has named Rossville coach John Nitsch as the 3A Softball Coach of the Year: A Bulldawg alum, Nitsch led Rossville to the program’s first state title since 2000. He has coached softball at some level for 25+ years. Rossville took 4th at state in 2022. Finishing 20-4 overall this season, Rossville defeated Columbus, Southeast of Saline, and Santa Fe Trail for the 3A state championship. 

Brinley Dyche Is 3A Pitcher of the Year:

Sports In Kansas has named Brinley Dyche of Rossville as 3A Pitcher Of Year..  Dyche had a huge senior season in leading Rossville to a state championship in 3A. She had five shutouts on the year along with 105 strikeouts with a 11-3 record in what many say is the most competitive top to bottom division of softball in the state. Dyche also played against against one of, if not, the best schedule in 3A. Rossville split with 4A champion Wamego, beat SFT twice this season and knocked out Silver Lake in the regionals. They also had St. Marys and Rock Creek on their schedule in the regular season. Dyche picked up all three wins at the 2023 state tournament.

MEL and Big 7 To Merge

 HOLTON, Kan. (WIBW) - As some teams were set to leave the Big 7 and Mid-East Leagues, they’ve decided to merge.

According to Holton High School, Beginning in the 2024-2025 school year the Big East League will consist of the following high schools: Hiawatha, Holton, Jefferson West, Nemaha Central, Perry-Lecompton, Riley County, Rossville, Royal Valley, Sabetha, Silver Lake, and St. Marys. Middle school membership will include the aforementioned schools as well as Atchison Middle School.

In the Mid-East League, Rock Creek will depart to join the North Central Kansas League and Wabaunsee will depart to join the Flint Hills League at the end of the 2023-2024 school year.

As for the Big 7, Riverside is leaving to join the Northeast Kansas League at the end of the 2023-2024 school year.

According to the high school, The formation of the Big East League will improve scheduling logistics, increase academic and extracurricular opportunities, and further elevate these historically successful member schools.

Richard Faith Cleans Tombstones

 TOPEKA, Kan. (WIBW) - Richard Faith, 18, is a recent graduate of Washburn Tech & Rossville High School.

Faith spent many years in Scouting. For his Eagle Scout project, he chose to clean the marble headstones of fallen military veterans at the Rossville Township Cemetery.

Faith used his own money to purchase a specialized cleaning solution designed for marble surfaces. Several of his fellow Troop 7 members helped with the project.

Faith is also a volunteer firefighter with both Rossville and Delia Fire Departments.

CLASS 3A ALL-STATE SOFTBALL TEAM

 First team Pitcher—Brinley Dyche, sr., Rossville; Grace Major, jr., Columbus; Kaelee Washington, jr., Santa Fe Trail. 

Catcher—Marley Munz, sr., Kingman; Addison Saporito, sr., Columbus. 

Infielder—BrieAnn Brawner, sr., Haven; Mia Brown, sr., Frontenac; Kinsey Perine, jr., Rossville; Mia Sarwinski, sr., Galena; Taylor Zordel, so., Silver Lake. 

Outfielder—Abi Beamon, jr., Frontenac; Sadie Estill, sr., Haven; Blayze McNemar, sr., Galena; Katie Simpson, jr., Columbus. 

Utility—Ava Lay, so., Wichita Trinity Academy. 

Second team Pitcher—Avery Brawner, fr., Haven; Avery Johnson, so., Frontenac; Chloe Odle, sr., Beloit. 

Catcher—Addison Bloodgood, sr., Prairie View; Madison Cross, fr., Wichita Trinity Academy. 

Infielder—Annie Lee, jr., Frontenac; Kaitlin Lopp, jr., Columbus; Brielle Ptacek, jr., Southeast of Saline; Hattie Pyle, sr., Frontenac; Laney Wood, so., Kingman.

Outfielder—Elina Bartlett, sr., Cheney; Kashlin Beck, jr., Hoisington; Kaibryn Kruger, jr., Silver Lake; Peyton McCormick, jr., Cheney. 

Utility—Kalei Hale, jr., Rossville.

Rossville Photos

The below link has dozens of excellent Rossville photos

 https://www.facebook.com/photo?fbid=214195771487160&set=pcb.214195941487143

James Pauly Passes Away

Jim Pauly, 81, lived in Overland Park, KS and was born on April 5th, 1942 in Maple Hill, KS, the son of Peter and Agnes (Gros) Pauly.

Jim grew up in St. Marys, KS and graduated from St. Marys High School in 1960.  Soon after, he enlisted in the Kansas Army National Guard where he proudly served for nine years, including activation with the 69th Infantry Brigade in 1968.  On November 13, 1965, he was united in marriage to Donna Lee Reser at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in St. Marys, KS.

Mass of Christian Burial will be Celebrated at 10:00 A.M. on Tuesday, June 13, 2023, at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in St. Marys.  Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery St. Marys.  James will lie in state and the family will receive friends from 5:00  until 7:00 P.M. Monday, June 12, 2023, at the funeral home.  Memorial contributions may be made to the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church and sent in care of Piper Funeral Home, 714 Maple Street, St. Marys, Kansas 66536, To leave online condolences go to www.piperfuneralhome.com.

To read the complete obituary, or the Memorial page, go to:

James Pauly obituary

Paul Dee Fecteau Passes Away

Paul D. Fecteau, 55, of Rossville, passed away Friday, May 19, 2023.

He was born February 8, 1968, in Manhattan, Kansas, the son of Ronald and Linda (Livingston) Fecteau. He graduated from Manhattan High School. He received a Bachelor's Degree from Kansas State University and went on to obtain an MFA degree in Creative Writing from Wichita State University. He spent over a dozen years teaching college literature and writing courses. He also worked as an investigator, both as a government contractor and as a private investigator.

Paul married Keli Michelle Huddleston on August 12, 1995 in Topeka, Kansas. They have one daughter, Elizabeth.

Paul believed life was the ultimate mystery, not one to be solved, but experienced. He passionately enjoyed discussing film, music, art, and literature with friends and colleagues. He was devoted to good conversation, good food, and puzzling texts, including those about religion, conspiracies, crime, and the uncanny.

He actively wrote both fiction and nonfiction. He made time to write and encouraged others to do so, offering to edit and revise or lend a hand as necessary. Most of all, Paul was always a gentleman: he made scores of friends during his life, and they will miss him dearly.

He is survived by his wife, Keli; daughter, Elizabeth; and mother, Linda Fecteau. He was preceded in death by his father, Ronald Eugene Fecteau.

A memorial service will be held at First Congregational Church on June 24 at 2 p.m. After the service there will be cookout at the family home in Rossville for those who want to eat and share memories of Paul.

Memorial contributions may be made to The Rod Serling Memorial Foundation.

Cameron Renner Passes Away

Cameron L. Renner, 20, passed away on Saturday, June 3, 2023, at Lawrence Memorial Hospital.

He was born December 17, 2002, in Topeka, the son of Marty Allen and Katie L. Paine Renner.  Cameron was raised in Rossville and Topeka and graduated from Shawnee Heights High School in 2021.

Cameron had worked as a roofer in construction.

Cameron was preceded in death by his father, Marty, his paternal grandmother, Shirley Renner, and his maternal grandfather, Terry Paine

Survivors include his mother, Katie Paine and her husband Travis Quillin, Topeka; two brothers, Tanner, and Trey Renner both of Topeka; his sister, Ashtyne Renner, Topeka; his grandfather Bill Renner, Osage City and his grandmother, Leslie Paine, Topeka, his aunts and uncle, Teri Leigh Boulet, Topeka, Morgan Naomi Paine, Topeka, Penny Renner, Topeka and Yancy Joseph Levi Paine, Kansas City, Kansas; as well as several cousins.

Funeral services will be at 10:00 A.M. Saturday, June 10, 2023, at the Cottonwood Baptist Church, 316 E. Wyandotte Street, Meriden, KS 66512.  A private burial will be in the Valencia Cemetery.  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Piper funeral home to assist with funeral cost. 

A Memorial page for Cameron can be read at:  https://www.piperfuneralhome.com/obituaries/cameron-renner

New Police Chief For Rossville

 ROSSVILLE, Kan. (WIBW) - A member of the Topeka Police Force for nearly three decades has now been sworn in as the Chief of Police for the City of Rossville.

The Rossville Police Department announced on Monday evening, June 5, that new Chief of Police Tom Sipp was officially sworn in at the City Council meeting. He began his career in law enforcement in 1986 after he served in the U.S. Marine Corps.

RPD noted that Chief Sipp has 37 years in law enforcement under his belt including time spent with the Kansas State Fire Marshal’s Office, Hutchinson Police Department, Topeka Police Department - where he served 26 years - and the Kansas Racing & Gaming Commission.

During Sipp’s time with TPD, officials said he spent 11 years with the Criminal Investigations Division and has held various positions including patrolman, sergeant, detective, investigator and agent.

RPD said Sipp is well-known for his friendly and warm personality along with his professional work ethic. He is excited about the new opportunity and looks forward to meeting the community.

Rossville High Scholarships/Awards Class of 2023

 ROSSVILLE HIGH SCHOLARSHIPS AWARDED

Rossville High School held its annual Spring Awards Night on Wednesday, May 10, 2023 to bestow awards and scholarships to deserving students.  The counselor, administration, and faculty would like to thank all of the scholarship contributors and presenters for their donations and interest in the students of Rossville.   If anyone in the community has a scholarship opportunity, please call Rossville Jr/Sr High School with those details.  Your dedication to our students is greatly appreciated.

The following Awards were presented: 

The United States Marine Corps Awards for Scholastic Excellence are given to two seniors that have demonstrated academic achievement and leadership by being a role model for other students and this year's winner are Kade Perine and Reagan Wonnell

The United States Marine Corps Semper Fidelis Awards for Musical Excellence are given to two seniors recognized as both outstanding performers and young citizens and I am pleased to announce this year's winner are Hayden Sanders and Ean Haynes

The United States Marine Corps Distinguished Athlete Awards are given to two senior athletes who are exemplary young citizens, role models for other students, and best exhibit the personal traits of courage, poise, self-confidence and leadership and this year’s winner are Kade Perine and Amelia Foster

The American Legion awards 2 males and two females, each year from Rossville High with certificates.  The students are chosen by the faculty based on the criteria of courage, honor, leadership, patriotism, scholarship, and service.  Those students chosen by the faculty are

Carter Bergman, Kayleigh Johnson, Kade Perine and Amelia Foster

Rossville Jr/Sr High School has 4 seniors this year who completed the required curriculum as set forth by the Kansas Board of Regents and earned the designation of State of Kansas Curriculum Completer.  In order to earn this distinction, students must have completed 4 years of Math, 3 years of Science, 3 years of Social Studies, and 2 years of Foreign Language.  The students who met these criteria are Carter Bergman, Amelia Foster, Kayleigh Johnson, and Reagan Wonnell

These students were recognized by Shawnee County Honor Scholars for being in the top 10% of their class. These students were Reagan Wonnell, Kade Perine, Jessica Thompson, and Brinely Dyche.

The Kansas State High School Activities Association awards one male and one female student from each high school with a citizenship award.  Individuals receiving this award must demonstrate respect from fellow students, the citizens of the community, adults, and their country.  They must also show respect and tolerance for others, good sportsmanship, and good citizenship.  The year’s awards have been given to Carter Bergman and Jalyn Davis

The John Johnson Leadership Award was created to honor Mr. Johnson for his years of dedication to the students of Rossville High School.  The award began in 2007 and is presented annually to the student who demonstrates quiet leadership and service.  This year's award has been presented to Reagan Wonnell.

The Dale Dennis Excellence in Education Award was established in 1996 by Kansas administrators to honor the long and valuable service that Dale Dennis gave to Kansas education.  It is based on Citizenship, Service, Scholarship, and Common Sense.  This year’s recipient is Krew Lacock

The Michael Keller Award is presented to honor the long and dedicated service provided to RHS by Mr. Michael Keller.  Mr. Keller began his teaching career in 1978 and dispensed his wisdom, sense of humor, and discipline to countless students over this 35-year period.  The award recipient must display strong citizenship, respect for others, attention to detail, and excellent attendance and punctuality.   This year’s recipient is Brinley Dyche.

The Senior Inspirational Award is given to one student each year.  The faculty at Rossville High School determine this award. To earn this award, the student must work all four years of their high school career encouraging and inspiring others through their actions.  This year's award goes to Reagan Wonnell.

Mid-East League All-Academic Awards are given to students who participate in at least three activities sponsored by the Kansas State High School Activities Association and maintain a GPA of 3.5 or higher.  The seniors being awarded this award are Reagan Wonnell, Kade Perine, Brinley Dyche, Jalyn Davis, Amelia Foster, Ean Haynes, and Hayden Sanders

This award is presented to honor the leadership and service to RHS by Mr. Toby McCullough.  Mr. McCullough began teaching in 1980 and joined us in 1983 and was able to retire after serving as principal until 2017.  The recipient of this award must be punctual; have excellent attendance; enjoy and/ or participate in sports; be intelligent, have a strong work ethic, sense of humor, and leadership qualities; and be dedicated to volunteering and giving back to the community. This year the faculty has given this award to Jalyn Davis.

The following scholarships were presented:

Coach Lance Leonard Inspirational Scholarship: 

This scholarship is to honor the volunteering with youth sports Mr. Leonard did over his lifetime.  His tireless efforts to instruct the youth of his community was inspiring to many.  Each year, the scholarship organizers gather funds by hosting a walk/run in honor of Coach Lance Leonard.  This year's winner is Reagan Wonnell

Custom Wood Products Scholarship: 

The scholarship was established by Donald and Pamela Lake to further Custom Wood’s commitment to the communities of Rossville and St. Marys. The Rossville High School winner is Jasmine Stover

Rossville Booster Club Scholarship: 

The award began in 2012 and the recipient must have participated in a KSHSAA activity throughout high school. This year's winner is Amelia Foster. 

Bryan Lindstrom Inspirational Scholarship:

Bryan Lindstrom lost his battle with cancer in 2013 at the age of 40.  He was a leader, motivator, and an inspiration to everyone he touched.  He wanted to set up a scholarship in his memory for the seniors at Rossville, Silver Lake, and St. Marys to help someone that had the desire to work hard and put in the time and effort to achieve their goals.  This year's winner is Reagan Wonnell

Rossville High School Alumni Association: 

The Association was founded in 1998 and has awarded over $33,000 to deserving students in this 22-year period. The award’s recipient must meet high standards set out by the association and be a good representative of RHS as they move on through college and begin their career. This year's winners are Brinely Dyche and Jacob Carver.

Bank of the Flint Hills Employee Donor Advised Scholarship: 

This fund combines the generous gifts of bank employees to provide scholarships to area seniors. The 2022 Rossville winner is Jenna Thompson 

Doug Perine Memorial Scholarship: 

This scholarship was presented to Kayleigh Johnson. The scholarship was established in 2012 to honor Doug, a longtime community figure, and is given to an RHS student planning to continue their education.

Cole Arnold Memorial Scholarship: 

The award is presented annually in memory of their son Cole who died in a car accident the summer before his Senior year. The chosen senior is McKenzie Shenk

Rossville Community Development Committee (RCDC) Scholarship: 

Presented by Taylor Morelli to Jalyn Davis and Amelia Foster. The scholarship is based on achievements, community involvement, and contributions to the community of Rossville.

RHS Opportunity Scholarship: 

This is the 8th year for the award, provided by an anonymous donor. Recipients are chosen based on GPA, ACT, resume, strength of schedule, and an essay over an experience that made an impact in their life. Students must plan to pursue a career in Engineering, Science, Medicine, Math, or a related field. $500 scholarships were awarded to Kayleigh Johnson, Kade Perine, Brinley Dyche, and Reagan Wonnell

 

Rossville Community Foundation:

This scholarship is based on achievements, community involvement, and contributions to the community of Rossville.  This scholarship was presented to Jalyn Davis 

The Philanthropic Educational Organization 

The members of P.E.O. are committed to helping women pursue higher education. Scholarships are awarded to exceptional high school graduating women to attend an accredited postsecondary educational institution in the U.S. or Canada in the next academic year.  The P.E.O. recipient is Amelia Foster 

Kaw Valley Education Association

This scholarship is available for Rossville students planning to major in education.  The recipient this year is Hayden Sanders

Ron Monhollen Memorial Scholarship:

This scholarship will be awarded to a 2023 graduate of Rossville High School who plans

to attend a vocational program in the fall. The scholarship is funded by his

daughter, Ronda Monhollon, and grandchildren, Dylan, Roni, Dana, and Brooke.  This year's winner is Sean Cunningham

Rossville United Methodist Church Scholarship:

This year two students received scholarships from the church.  They are Krew Lacock and Sean Cunningham

Ellis Foundation:

The Ellis Foundation was established by Danny and Willa Ellis in memory of their daughter Kathy Lynn Ellis Adriance.  Kathy, a much-loved teacher, influenced many lives before passing away of breast cancer in 1998.  Since then, The Ellis Foundation has committed over $20 million in scholarships for deserving students. This year's winner is Sean Cunningham

Ag Partner Cooperative Scholarship:

This scholarship is presented by the board of directors of Ag Partner.  Each year this organization gives up to 20 $1000 scholarships to high school seniors all over the United States.  This years winner is Jalyn Davis

Fred Wehrli Scholarship: 

Fred spent almost 32 years of service in the military, retiring as an E-8 from the Kansas Air National Guard. He farmed south of Rossville. He enjoyed Muskie fishing from Missouri to Canada and the Sprint Car Races at Knoxville, Iowa.  This scholarship was established in his memory and is awarded to students seeking a future in agriculture.  The winner this year is Jalyn Davis and Amelia Foster

The Ruff Memorial Scholarships:

Mr. Ruff grew up in Ness City but moved to the Rossville area in 1934.  He was a farmer and married Marsella Stadler in 1940.  Together they had 2 children and those two children gave them two grandchildren.  Mr. Ruff passed away in November 2003, and Mrs. Ruff passed away in September 2001.  Both have memorial scholarships. The Dale C Ruff Memorial Scholarship recipient is Hayden Sanders.  The Marcella A Ruff Memorial Scholarship recipient is

Amelia Foster.

The Brady Smith Memorial Scholarship:

The parents of Bradley R. Smith,  who was killed in action on January 3, 2010, have awarded over $200,000 in scholarships to area high school students. These scholarships honor the memory of Brad, his love of God, his country, Troy and Triad, and his desire to continue his education.  The Brady Smith Memorial Scholarship recipient is Krew Lacock

Farm Bureau Scholarship:

Each year Kansas Farm Bureau Foundation for Agriculture awards scholarships to college students studying in fields that benefit agriculture and rural Kansas.  Over the past decade, the foundation has awarded more than $325,000 in scholarships.  The Wabaunsee County Farm Bureau Scholarship recipient is Jalyn Davis. The Shawnee County Farm Bureau Scholarship recipient is Amelia Foster.  

Congratulations on your accomplishments!