Marcus Muzzy Passes Away

Marcus M. Muzzy, 96, of St. Marys, died on Monday, May 12, 2025 at the Robert J. Dole VA Medical Center in Wichita, KS. 

Services are pending and a full obituary will be published shortly. 

Gene Pelfrey Passes Away

With deep respect and heartfelt remembrance, we announce the passing of Donald "Gene" Pelfrey, who left us on August 14, 2024, at the age of 92. Born on June 20, 1932, in Rossville, Kansas, to Everett and Ora Pelfrey, Gene was known for his strong moral character and unwavering work ethic.

Gene was married to his beloved wife, Ila "Bernie" Pruessner on June 16th, 1956 in Kansas City, MO.

Gene served with honor in the United States Air Force during the Korean War as a B26 crew chief, beginning his service in Nevada and being deployed to Germany. After being honorably discharged in 1955, he brought the same dedication to his career as an electrical contractor, founding G&G Electric and making significant contributions to homes, schools, and nursing homes.

A respected third-degree Mason and member of the Shrine Arab Temple, Gene was also a founding member and two-time commander of the Rossville American Legion.

Gene was deeply devoted to his family. He found joy in traveling with Bernie and cherished peaceful moments spent on their farm and fishing on Melvern Lake. His love for nature and passion for reading reflected his appreciation for knowledge and a simple, fulfilling life.

Gene's word was his bond, embodying a time when a handshake was as binding as any contract. His legacy of honor, reliability, and quiet strength will be cherished by all who knew him.

Gene's life was marked by a profound love for his family and community. He is survived by his loving wife, Bernie, and their children, Randall (Donna) Pelfrey, Lisa (Rick) Pelfrey, and Les (Amy) Pelfrey. Gene was a proud grandfather to John (Chelsea) Pelfrey, Sara (Lewis)Tams, Brock and Ty Dick, Paige (Saagar) Mehta, Adam Pelfrey, Abby (Kodi) Minocha, and Brooke Pelfrey, and a great-grandfather to Emma and Conner Tams, Harper Pelfrey, and Sai Mehta. Gene now rests in eternal peace with his loved ones who preceded him, including his parents, Everett and Ora Pelfrey; sister, Kathleen (Orville) Stocker; and daughter-in-law, Nancy Pelfrey.

A celebration of life will be held Saturday, August 24th at 11:00am at the Citizen Potawatomi Nation Community Center, 806 Nishnabe Trail, Rossville, Kansas 66533. A private graveside memorial service with military honors will take place at Rossville Cemetery. 

The family has requested that in lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Rossville American Legion, Jimmy Lillard Post 31, 442 Main St, PO BOX 338, Rossville, KS 66533 in honor Gene's lasting spirit of service. Gene's legacy of dedication, service, and love will continue to inspire all who knew him.

David Joseph Senior Passes Away

David Joseph Senior, 73, of St. Marys, died on Tuesday, April 15, 2025 at home surrounded by family. 

A full obituary is pending and will be published shortly. 

A visitation will be held from 2:00-4:00 PM on Wednesday, April 23, 2025 at Piper Funeral Home, 714 Maple St. in St. Marys. A rosary will be recited at 5:20 PM at The Immaculata, 701 N. 2nd St., also in St. Marys. Requiem mass will be offered at 11:15 AM on Thursday, April 24, 2025 at The Immaculata with burial following in Our Lady of Peace Cemetery.

Benjamin Querubin Passes Away

Benjamin Caindec Querubin, 97, of St. Marys, KS and formerly of California, died on Monday, April 14, 2025 surrounded by his family. 

John Pauley Passes Away

John Peter Pauly, age 77, passed away on Thursday, April 10, 2025. He was born on March 30, 1948 to Peter G. and Agnes R (Gros) Pauly in Wamego, Kansas.

A full obituary will be posted soon.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 A.M. Friday, April 25, 2025, at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in St. Marys. Inurnment will be private at a later date. John will lie in state and the family will receive friends from 5:00 P.M. until the Rosary at 7:00 P.M. Thursday, April 24, 2025, at Piper Funeral Home. 

Russell Mosby Passes Away

Russell L. Mosby, Jr, 66, of Paxico, passed peacefully on Saturday, March 29, 2025 at Kansas University Medical Center, with family at his side. He was born May 21, 1958 in Wamego, Kansas to Russell L. Mosby, Sr and Dorothy Belle (White) Mosby.

Russell grew up in the Maple Hill area, attending Maple Hill Grade School and Wabaunsee High School, graduating in May 1976. Russell moved to Paxico in 1986, making it his home. During his younger years, he worked for a number of local farmers and ranchers, assisting with hay hauling and fencing. He also enjoyed working on automobiles, especially older Chevrolet models, often pulling and replacing engines and transmissions. Many would say he was a "jack-of-all-trades, master of none"! Russell also enjoyed camping, fishing, and his early morning coffee with longtime friends.

Russell is survived by his longtime partner and friend Margo Williams and their 2 children, Anthony and Andrew Mosby, all of Paxico, his granddaughter Kierra Mosby, Westmoreland, great-granddaughter Brynleigh Ross, Westmoreland, and was joyous to soon be expecting a great-grandson, Stetson.

Other survivors include his sisters, Dianne (Curtis) Gilmour, Aurora, CO; Fannie (Gary) Johnson, Pueblo, CO, LaNora (Daniel) Clay, Lincoln, NE, and Kathryn (Steve) Brown, Rossville, and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family. Russell was preceded in death by his mother and father, older brother, George Mosby, and his older sisters, Pamela Mosby and Dorothy Louise Mosby, He was loved by many and will be missed by all!

A graveside memorial service will take place at 1:00 pm on Saturday, April 12, 2025 at the Eskridge Cemetery, 6 Mile & Peony Rd in Eskridge, KS. In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting contributions be made to the Russell L. Mosby, Jr. Memorial Fund and may be sent in care of Piper Funeral Home, 714 Maple St., St. Marys, KS 66536.

Steven Carter Passes Away

  

Steven Lyle Carver, age 81, passed away peacefully on March 27, 2025, at Midland Hospice House, Topeka, surrounded by his family. 

Steve was born to Levi and Eunice (Feldhausen) Carver on November 10, 1943, in Clyde, Kansas. He was raised in the rural Belleville, Kansas, area along with his 2 sisters and 5 brothers. Steve graduated from Belleville High School and went on to attend Kansas State University. Before joining the military, Steve drove a mail truck delivering mail and worked as a mechanic at Miller's Auto Service in Willard. Steve proudly served in the US Army from 1968 to 1972 where he attained the rank of Sergeant E-5. His service included time in the Central Highlands of Vietnam. His army medals of honor include the National Defense Service, Army Commendation, Good Conduct, Vietnam Campaign, Vietnam Service and Sharpshooter & Marksman and they were proudly displayed in his home. Upon his return, Steve worked at Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company in Topeka where he retired after 38 years of service. 

After retirement, Steve enjoyed golfing with family and friends, crossword puzzles, guessing wheel of fortune, traveling and spending time outside cutting and splitting firewood. Steve also enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren Tyler, Garrett, Jacob and Isaac. In his youth, he enjoyed hunting and fishing. 

Steve was united in marriage to Maxine Faye Tomasek on June 29, 1968 at Ft. Leonardwood, Missouri. They celebrated 51 years of marriage before her death on January 28, 2019. He was also preceded in death by his grandson Isaac Carver, sister Marjorie (Carver) Ekstrom and brothers Paul Carver and Larry Carver. 

Survivors include his sons, David L. Carver of Manhattan, and Marc A. Carver (Jill) of Rossville, his daughter, Sherri (Phil) Carver-Cohen of Seattle, WA, his grandchildren Tyler Carver, Garrett Carver, and Jacob Carver, and his companion Connie Lindell, Lawrence. He is also survived by his brothers Ivan Carver (Sandy) of Lake Havasu City AZ, Curt Carver (Mickey) of Nelson NE, Joe Carver of Iola KS, and sister Deanna Jeardoe (Leonard) of Hebron NE. 

Memorial service will be at Rossville Christian Church, Saturday, April 5th at 10:00 a.m. with internment following in Rossville Cemetery. The family will receive friends on Friday, April 4th from 6:00-8:00 pm at Piper Funeral Home in St. Marys. Memorial contributions may be made to Midland Hospice House and sent in care of Piper Funeral Home, 714 Maple Street, St. Marys, KS. 66536.  

Donald Willets Passes Away

Donald E. Willits, 87, of Rossville, died on Wednesday, March 26, 2025. 

Services are pending and a full obituary will be published shortly. 

Nancy Bell Passes Away

Nancy Kay (Kranz) Bell, 71, of Rossville, died on Wednesday, March 26, 2025. 

A full obituary is pending and will be published at a later date. 

Katie Quillin (97) Passes Away

Katie Linae Quillin, born on October 19, 1978, in Topeka, Kansas, passed away on March 15, 2025, also in Topeka. She was a cherished member of her community and a beloved family member, remembered for her spunky disposition, intelligence, and her wonderfully outgoing personality.

Katie graduated from Rossville High School in 1997 and went on to attend Allen Community College, where she pursued her interest in business. Throughout her career, she showcased her culinary talents as a cook at Rossville Health and Rehabilitation and later owned her own business, Katie’s Garden Goodness, where she shared her passion for gardening by selling salsa, jellies, plants, and flowers. Katie also contributed to the workforce at various other establishments, including Jostens and Payless Shoesource.

Katie's love for life and her big heart were evident in her interactions with others. A true friend, she could always be counted on for a laugh or a kind word. She enjoyed spending time with her daughter Ashtyne, often indulging in her love for getting their nails done together. In her spare time, Katie relished gardening, cooking, coloring, and crafting, often transforming her home with beautiful decorations.

Katie is survived by her loving husband, Travis Quillin; her daughter, Ashtyne Renner; and her sons, Tanner Renner and Trey Renner. She is also survived by her mother, Leslie Paine; her sisters, Teri Leigh Boulet and Morgan Paine, and her brother, Yancy Paine.

Katie's memory will be cherished by all who knew her, especially her family, including those who predeceased her: her father, Terry Paine; her son, Cameron Renner; and her infant siblings, Lainey Paine and Chad Paine.

A memorial service will be held on March 22, 2025, at Cottonwood Baptist Church, located at 316 E. Wyandotte, Meriden, Kansas, starting at 11:00 AM. The service will conclude at noon, providing an opportunity for family and friends to honor Katie's remarkable life and the joyful moments shared with her.

Katie Linae Quillin taught us the importance of kindness, laughter, and the gifts of nature. She leaves behind a legacy of love that will continue to flourish in the hearts of those she touched.

Roy Reser Passes Away

Roy William Reser, aged 80, of St. Marys, Kansas, departed this world for greener pastures on Sunday, March 9, 2025, at Stormont Vail Hospital, surrounded by his loving family. Born on August 19, 1944, in St. Marys, Kansas, Roy was the cherished son of Ervin and Minnie Holz Reser.

Growing up on his family's farm in St. Marys, Roy cultivated a deep connection with the land and community. He attended St. Marys High School, graduating in 1962, and served with pride in the Kansas National Guard. His journey through life was marked by dedication, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to his loved ones.

On September 10, 1966, Roy married the love of his life, Mary Ann Flerlage, at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in St. Marys. Together, they built a life full of love and togetherness. Mary Ann survives him, cherishing the memories they made together. Roy’s legacy lives on through his children, Kelly (Todd) Brown of Rossville, KS, and Douglas (Melanie) Reser of St. Marys, KS, as well as his 11 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. Other surviving family members include his son-in-law, Vernie Catron, his sister, Lola Stevans, and many adoring nieces and nephews.

Roy was predeceased by his parents, his sister Betty Wells, and his beloved daughter Vicky Catron, whose loss brought great sadness to the family.

Roy exemplified an extraordinary work ethic, dedicating himself wholeheartedly to every endeavor. For 30 years, he worked as a meat cutter for Falleys, demonstrating his commitment and skill. Following his retirement, Roy pursued his true passion as a full-time cattle rancher, a role that brought him immense joy and fulfillment.

An avid outdoorsman, Roy reveled in the beauty of nature and the thrill of adventure. He spent countless nights and weekends playing baseball and softball, and he and Mary Ann delighted in dancing almost every Saturday evening. Roy’s love for hunting and fishing was well-known, and he took immense pride in raising coon hounds for hunting. The stories of his adventurous coon hunts are legendary.

Roy's enthusiasm for team penning and ranch rodeos, often shared with his son, highlighted his zest for life. He attended every sporting event and rodeo of his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, always their biggest supporter.

Above all, Roy’s family was his greatest source of pride and joy. He cherished every moment with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, instilling in them the values of hard work, love, and laughter. Roy William Reser will be fondly remembered for his playful and mischievous spirit, leaving behind a legacy of light and laughter that will forever warm the hearts of those who knew him. His memory will continue to shine brightly in the lives of his family and friends.

The rosary will be recited for Roy at 5:30 PM on Thursday, March 13 at St. Stanislaus Catholic Church, 703 Main St., Rossville, KS and will be followed by a visitation until 8:00 pm in Dekat Hall at the church. Mass of Christian Burial will be offered at 10:30 AM on Friday, March 14, also at St. Stanislaus, followed by interment in Rossville Cemetery.

Everyone is invited to join the family following the burial for a luncheon at the American Legion Post 31 in Rossville to visit and share memories of Roy.

Patricia Bixby (56) Passes Away

 Patricia Ann Bixby, affectionately known for her sweet and kind spirit, was born on May 21, 1938, in Rossville, Kansas. She passed away peacefully on January 23, 2025, in St. Marys, Kansas, leaving behind a legacy of compassion, care, and love that touched all who knew her.

A proud graduate of Rossville High School in 1956, Patricia dedicated 37 years of her life to the noble profession of nursing; she worked as a licensed practical nurse at St. Francis Hospital. An angel of mercy, she cared for the ill, providing comfort and compassion to her patients during their most vulnerable times. Her commitment to nurturing others was also evident in her devoted care for her elderly parents, Oscar and Charlotte Bixby, in their final years. Patricia often reflected on her desire to have children of her own; however, she found immense joy and fulfillment in the lives of her numerous nieces and nephews, whom she cherished dearly.

Patricia's life was rich with memories, filled with the warmth of family gatherings, particularly holidays spent at Grandma and Grandpa Bixby’s house. She took great delight every Christmas in gifting a new pair of socks for each of her nieces and nephews, a tradition that showcased her love and thoughtfulness. Family occasions were never complete without Patricia's presence, as she was a very special part of Donna’s family, bringing joy and laughter wherever she went.

In addition to her professional accomplishments, Patricia loved to travel, with particularly fond memories of a trip to Switzerland and Germany during her younger years. She enjoyed traveling across the United States with her sister, Genevieve Jenssen, as well as spending summer vacations with her sister Betty and her family. In her younger years, Patricia enjoyed sewing and crocheting. One of her greatest joys in life was spending time with extended family and enjoyed the friendship of her little nieces and nephews. 

Patricia was very proud of her Catholic Faith and was a member of St. Stanislaus Catholic Church in Rossville, KS for her entire life. 

Patricia is survived by her beloved sister, Genevieve Jenssen of Rossville, KS, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and great-nephews who will forever honor her memory. She was preceded in death by her parents, Oscar and Charlotte (Hurla) Bixby, sisters, Teresa Miller and Betty (Hinterweger) Cummings, and brothers-in-law, Lloyd Miller, Donald Jenssen, and Eric Hinterweger. She was also preceded in death by her niece, Joyce Jenssen, and her nephews, Edward Jenssen, Daniel Hinterweger, Timothy Miller, and Bruce Reynolds. 

A visitation will be held on Thursday,January 30, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM, followed by a Rosary at 7:00 PM at Piper Funeral Home, located at 714 Maple St, St. Marys, KS. A funeral Mass will be celebrated to honor her memory on Friday, January 31, 2025, at 10:00 AM at St. Stanislaus Catholic Church, 703 Main St, Rossville, KS, followed by her burial in Rossville Cemetery. 

Patricia Ann Bixby lived a full and productive life, touching countless hearts with her gentle spirit and unwavering dedication to caring for others. She will be deeply missed but lovingly remembered by her family and all whose lives she enriched.

Kelly Cowan Passes Away

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Kelly Cowan, age 58, on November 25, 2024, at his home in Topeka, Kansas. Kelly Eugene Cowan was born on May 11, 1966 in Topeka, Kansas, to Ron and Mary (Besta) Cowan.

 Kelly was raised in Rossville, graduated from Rossville High School, attended Emporia State University and worked for Custom Wood Products in St. Marys for more than 30 years. Kelly was an avid and loyal sports fan and loved following and discussing his Rossville Bulldawgs, the Kansas State Wildcats, the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, the Kansas City Royals, and the Kansas City Chiefs. He loved being outdoors, whether he was fishing, hunting, riding motorcycles or just driving.

 Kelly is survived by his daughters, Jericka (Aaron) Barber, of Delia, and Annalyn Cowan, of Holton, grandsons Easton, Bowen and Ryatt Barber, his father, Ron Cowan, of Rossville, his brothers John (Brigette), of Topeka, Rodney (Deana), of Maple Hill, Kevin (Valerie), of Wichita, and Shane (Kelly), of Allen, Texas, and his many aunts and uncles, cousins and nieces and nephews. Kelly was preceded in death by his mother, Mary, and grandparents John and Grace Cowan, Edward Besta, and Clint and Winifred Kerwin.

 Kelly battled many challenges in recent years, but he was proud of his family and friends, and loved them very much, and they loved him. Kelly was happy to “hang out” and “shoot the breeze” with friends and strangers alike, and he will be missed by many.

A memorial visitation will be held from 5:00-7:00 PM, Tuesday, December 3 at St. Stanislaus Catholic Church, 703 Main St. in Rossville with a rosary following at 7:00 PM. Mass of Christian burial will be offered at 10:00 AM on Wednesday, December 4, also at St. Stanislaus. Burial will follow in Rossville Cemetery. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Piper Funeral Home, 714 Maple St., St. Marys, KS 66536 to be used for a future education fund for Kelly’s grandsons. 

 May Kelly’s soul rest in peace.

Roy Reser Passes Away

 Roy William Reser, 80, of St. Marys, died on Sunday, March 9, 2025 at Stormont-Vail Hospital surrounded by his family. 

A full obituary will be published shortly. 

The rosary will be recited for Roy at 5:30 PM on Thursday, March 13 at St. Stanislaus Catholic Church, 703 Main St., Rossville, KS and will be followed by a visitation until 8:00 pm in Dekat Hall at the church. Mass of Christian Burial will be offered at 10:30 AM on Friday, March 14, also at St. Stanislaus, followed by interment in Rossville Cemetery.