Rita Perine Passes Away

Rita A. Perine, born on December 4, 1951, in Saint Marys, Kansas, passed away on August 9, 2026, in Auburn, Kansas. She was a dedicated Licensed Practical Nurse, proudly serving at Rossville Valley Manor for many years before transitioning to a pharmacy technician role at Doug's Pharmacy in Rossville, where she worked alongside her late husband, Doug. Rita's commitment to her profession was unwavering, as she continued to make deliveries for the pharmacy until the last few months of her life.Rita cherished her time spent at Lake Wabaunsee, where she and Doug owned a home. 

She loved being surrounded by her family, relishing moments with her daughter, Jennifer and son, Jason, and her daughters-in-law, Erin Sowers and Shanna Perine. She took great joy in the company of her grandchildren-Terrence, Jessica, Tyree, De'Andre, Kade, Kinsey, and Kenna-as well as her three great-grandchildren. Rita's passion for family gatherings was complemented by her love for watching sports, playing cards, and keeping up with her favorite game shows. She also enjoyed side-by-side rides and the thrill of hunting for morel mushrooms and wild asparagus.

Rita was preceded in death by her husband, Doug Perine and her parents, Albert and Eleanor Baumchen.

A graveside service will be held in Rita's honor at the Rossville Cemetery on August 14, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. Rita will be remembered for her nurturing spirit, vibrant personality, and the love she shared with her family and friends.

In lieu of memorial contributions, please honor Rita by spending time with those you love. 

Loyd Williams Has Passed Away

 

Loyd “Wayne” Williams, 82, of Topeka, passed away Sunday, August 2, 2026.

He was born February 16, 1944, in Gatewood, Missouri, the son of Glen and Anna Mae (Clayton) Cullison. He graduated from Rossville High School. After high school, Wayne proudly served his country in the United States Air Force.

Wayne retired from Goodyear Tire and Rubber. Following his retirement, he formed a trucking business with his son, Patrick, called Ranger Trucking.

Wayne married Patricia Lewis on May 8th, 1997

He had a love for the outdoors. Wayne enjoyed camping and hunting, but fishing really was one of his favorite hobbies. He fished in many tournaments with his son, Patrick, through the years. He also enjoyed riding motorcycles and toured all over the country with his wife, Patricia. Wayne also enjoyed Country Western Music and going dancing. He was a member of the United Steel Workers #307.

He is survived by his son, Patrick (Becky) Williams; his four step-children, George Stevenson Jr., Audra Stevenson, Joseph (Rachel) Stevenson and Jack (Brittany) Stevenson; numerous beloved grandchildren and great grandchildren and one brother, Michael (Beth) Culllison. He was preceded in death by his wife, Patricia and his parents.

His family will greet friends and relatives from 12:00pm-1:30pm on Friday, August 21, 2026 at Parker Price and Davidson Funeral Home, 245 NW Independence Ave., Topeka, KS 66608. A graveside funeral service with Military Honors will take place at 2:00pm at Memorial Park Cemetery, 3616 SW 6th Ave., Topeka, KS 66606. Memorial contributions may be made to CAT Association of Topeka 1719 SW Gage Blvd, Topeka, KS 66604.

Linda Geffert Passes Away

.Linda Gayle Geffert of Rossville passed away on August 2, 2026 at the age of 83.  

Linda will be remembered for the impact she had on the lives of those around her. Friends, family, and colleagues will cherish their memories and the time shared. Those who knew Linda will remember moments of kindness, warmth, and presence. Though words cannot fully capture her life, the legacy of connections and experiences remains. Linda’s absence will be deeply felt by those who valued her companionship.

She was predeceased by: her parents, Albert Geffert and Helen Geffert (Koch); her brother Bill Geffert; her sister-in-law Nelda Geffert (Glenn Geffert) of Haven, KS; her sister Dorothy Thomas; and her brother-in-law Ray Thomas of Jackson Michigan.

She is survived by: her nephews, Greg Thomas of Spokane, WA, Randy Thomas of Jackson Michigan, Mark Thomas and Ray Geffert of Haven, KS..

Memorial contributions may be made to the Rossville Library, 407 Main St, Rossville, KS 66533 or any animal shelter of choice.

William "Biill" Cantillon Passes Away

 William David “Bill” Cantillon passed away peacefully on Sunday, July 26, 2026, while under the care of Ascend Hospice at St. Marys Manor.

Bill was born on March 5, 1937, to Richard “Dick” and Ann Cantillon. He was raised on the same farm he would later call home throughout his life. Bill attended a one-room schoolhouse (Stone School, Dist 75, on Arn Road NW of Rossville) through the eighth grade before attending St. Marys High School, where he graduated in 1955. A lifelong athlete, Bill enjoyed all sports, but he was especially fond of basketball. He always kept a hoop set up at the farm and continued playing in adult leagues for many years.

In 1957, Bill married Nida Mogus, and together they moved to Oklahoma. They were blessed with four children: Rich, Kathy, Mike, and Candy. They later divorced in 1968. Bill returned to Kansas and married Judith Tolle on June 12, 1971. Judy brought three more children into Bill’s life: Kim, Dennis, and Jodi.

Bill worked for Goodyear in Topeka, Kansas, retiring after a 33-year career. For most of those years, he worked the night shift, which allowed him time during the day to devote himself to one of his greatest passions: farming. Bill loved all things related to agriculture and even spent a brief time in the cattle business, running yearling cattle with his son Mike. He also had a deep love for the outdoors. Whether he was jogging, riding his bike, or driving to the mountains to hike, he always wanted to be outside. Bill was always ready for the next road trip and loved traveling to watch his grandchildren compete in any sporting activity. He was always available for a phone call and never turned down an invitation to see new country.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents, Dick and Ann Cantillon; his sister, Carolyn Mitchell; his son, Mike Cantillon; and his daughter, Kathy Overby. He is survived by his wife of more than 55 years, Judy Cantillon; Children: Rich (Pam) Cantillon of Blackwell, Oklahoma; Candy Karpe of Bixby, Oklahoma; Kim (Shawn) Fordham of Rossville, Kansas; Dennis Tolle of Topeka, Kansas; and Jodi Jordan of Rossville, Kansas. He is also survived by 12 grandchildren and 26 great-grandchildren living in Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, and Arkansas. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 1, 2026, at Immaculate Conception Church in St. Marys. A graveside service will follow at Mount Calvary Cemetery in St. Marys.

Memorial contributions may be made to the St. Marys Manor Activity Fund and may be left in care of Piper Funeral Home, 714 Maple St., St. Marys, KS 66536.

Lois (Coleman) Fussell Passes Away

Lois was born November 4, 1941 to Ralph and Catherine Coleman of Marysville, Ohio. She attended the Trinity Lutheran Day School for six years before moving to Rossville, Kansas where she graduated from Rossville High in 1958. She attended Louisiana State University from which she received a Bachelors and a Masters degree. She taught at Louisiana State, the University of Maryland in College Park while serving as assistant debate coach. She married Jesse Fussell in 1964 and in 1966 they moved to Japan, where she taught for the University of Maryland in the far east program and taught English for a foreign language company in Japan. While in Japan, she also gave birth to a son, Thomas.

She accompanied her husband in Germany where she served as the American President of the German-American Women’s Club of Wiesbaden. Lois was a life member of the League of Women Voters and of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People.

She died of lung cancer and congestive heart disease on May 17, 2016 and is survived by her husband, Jesse, and one son, Thomas, daughter-in-law Christiane and three grandchildren, Elisabeth, Jonathan and Charlotte, all of Hamburg, Germany. She is also survived by her brother, Dr. John Coleman (RHS Class of 1961)of Clay Center, Kansas and 3 nieces and one nephew.

Virginia Allen Passes Away (Updated)

Virginia "Ginger" Allen, beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and educator, passed away peacefully on July 21, 2026, in Topeka, Kansas.

Born on June 21, 1941, at St. Francis Hospital in Topeka, Ginger dedicated her life to teaching and inspiring young minds. She began her career as a first-grade teacher in Green Bay, Wisconsin, before returning to Kansas, where she spent many years teaching third grade at Rossville Grade School. Throughout her distinguished career, she touched the lives of countless students with her patience, encouragement, and genuine love of learning. She was honored with a nomination for Kansas Teacher of the Year-a reflection of the lasting impact she made in the classroom.

On April 16, 1961, Ginger married the love of her life, Gene "Pete" Allen. Together they shared a wonderful 60-year marriage until Pete's passing in 2021, filling their lives with travel, adventure, and cherished memories. Together they raised two daughters, Suzy and Debra.

Ginger's commitment to serving others extended far beyond the classroom. Alongside Pete, she served as a youth group leader at the Methodist church, was a dedicated 4-H sewing leader, and participated on numerous educational committees.

Family was at the center of Ginger's life. She loved hosting family gatherings and creating lasting memories together. She especially enjoyed traveling to Green Bay with family and treasured the close relationship she shared with her brother, Randy Shannon and his wife, Mickey, as well as Pete's brothers and their families in Denver, Colorado. Her family often heard her reassuring words: "We are blessed, so there's no need to worry." She always found something good to say about everyone she met and had an extraordinary gift for seeing the best in others.

Ginger was preceded in death by her parents, Evelynn and Lowell Shannon; her brothers, Bruce, Randy, and Max Shannon; and her beloved husband, Pete Allen.

She is survived by her daughters, Deb Rezac (Lance), Onaga and Suzy Thompson (Stan), Rossville; her grandchildren, Nicole Harrison (Luke), Kelsey Mattie (Ryan), Garrett Rezac (Jaydee), Wes Thompson (Nikki), and Krystle Young (Matt); her great-grandchildren Carissa, Adelynn, Kylee, Reagan, Daisey, Madison, and Hadley; and numerous extended family members and dear friends.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Monday, August 3, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Rossville United Methodist Church, with a luncheon immediately following the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Rossville United Methodist Church or Rossville Grade School, where a fund has been set up for classroom supplies.

Travis VanVleck To Coach Wrestlinhg

 Travis VanVleck has ben named as head wrestling coach for the RHS Boys for the oming year.

Teresa Marie Brazzle Passes Away

Teresa Marie Brazzle, 93, formerly of Wamego, Kansas, passed away on Monday (April 20, 2026) at the Onaga Community Hospital.

Born April 3, 1933 in in Rossville, Kansas, Marie was the daughter of Albert and Agnes (Reser) Besta. She married Walter C. “June” Brazzle on June 5,1949 at the Wamego United Methodist Church. He preceded her in death on April 30, 2012.

Marie’s devotion and love for her family was unmatched. She loved sharing her time with them and will be remembered for her cooking and baking, especially for her cakes. Marie enjoyed traveling, taking trips to Hawaii, Alaska, Lake Tahoe and Las Vegas to name some of the places she visited. She was an avid BINGO player and enjoyed going to the casino.

Marie was employed as a cook at Wamego High School for many years where she was known for her Chili and Cinnamon Rolls. She retired in 1999. Marie also was the office manager at her husband’s business, June’s Repair Shop in Wamego.

Survivors include three children, Kathy Dickey-Wilson (Marlin) of Wamego, Jan Olmstead of Wamego, and Lori Harms (Wayne) of Blue Rapids, KS; a daughter in law, Lois Brazzle of Wamego; a special nephew, Ron Mays (Shari) of Olathe, KS; six grandchildren: Brandon Brazzle, Emily Brazzle, Ben Dickey (Michelle), Olivia Dickey, Brock Wild (Kelley) and Cole Thomas (Ava); two step-grandchildren, Cody Harms (Stephanie) and Justina Heger (Dustin); seven great-grandchildren, Nicholas Fitterer, Danielle Fitterer, Kalie Brazzle, Addison Brazzle, Chloe Brazzle, Camryn Brazzle and Wren Thomas. Also surviving are several nieces, nephews and great nieces and great nephews, including Cristin Johnson (Pete) and Taylor Hilliger (Jon) and five great great nieces and great great nephews.

Marie was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, June; her son, Bruce Brazzle; two sisters, Helen Richards and Phyllis Mays; a half-brother, Averil Startup; and a half-sister, Velma Colter.

Pearl (Searcy) Wood Has Passed Away

 

Pearl Emma Wood, 92, passed peacefully at home on April 17, 2023 in Laurel, Indiana.  She was born in Belvue, Kansas, October 28, 1930, the daughter of Roy W. and Emma Ruth Trostle Searcy.

She grew up on farms in northeast Kansas. She had wonderful memories of the farm, her family, and her love of animals.  After graduating from Rossville High School, she moved to Topeka, Kansas and began her long career in banking.  She delighted in reliving stories she collected while working at Merchants National for 19 years and Kaw Valley Bank for 26 years.  She loved her work and the countless customers she served over the many years.  She was a member of Northside Church of Christ while living in Topeka, KS. After moving closer to her daughters, she was a member of the Northern Kentucky Church of Christ.  She loved with her whole heart and never met a stranger.  She had a deep love for family and others.  Pearl was a prayerful woman, praised the Lord in all things, and grateful for her life and blessings the Lord provided.

She married Donald E. Wood June 19, 1965 in Topeka, Kansas.  He preceded her in death January 24, 1996.  She is survived by three daughters and the blessing of her three sons-in-law, Kimberly Higgins (Keith) of Fort Worth, TX, Kathy Livingston (David) Hebron, KY, and Karla Decker (Don) Laurel, IN; four grandchildren, Houston and Carson Higgins, Fort Worth, TX and Vanessa and Jessica Livingston, Hebron, KY, a sister-in-law and many nieces and nephews.

Pearl was the last of a generation being preceded in death by four brothers and six sisters Glenn Searcy, Thelma Stoneberger, Lucille Hosler, Mary Miller, Dorothy Wright, Golda Plumly, Edward Searcy, Carl Searcy, Ray Searcy and Eileen Creveling.

Janet (Hause) Richards Passes Away

 

Janet Sue (Hause) Richards, 81, of Blackwell, Oklahoma, passed away on June 1, 2026.

Janet Sue Richards was born July 2, 1944, in Topeka, Kansas, the daughter of Alfred and Minnie (Davis) Hause. She graduated from Rossville High School with the class of 1962.

Janet married Bobby Richards on June 29, 1963. To this union, they shared two children: a son, Michael Richards, born March 24, 1964—and a daughter, Jill (Richards) Dasen, born May 30th, 1966. The couple shared 25 years of marriage before divorcing in 1992; Bobby later passed away on June 3, 2005.

Jannet connected with her Life Partner, Gary Chitwood, and they would spend 33 wonderful years together, until his passing on February 24, 2026.

Janet loved hummingbirds and bowling, but especially loved spending time with her kids and grandchildren at events. She would also enjoy making Christmas stockings for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

She is preceded in death by her parents; former husband, Bobby; and life partner, Gary.

She is survived by her daughter, Jill Dasen and wife Cheryl of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; son Michael Richards and wife Carol of Rose Hill, Kansas; grandchildren: Austin Richards and wife Amber of Enid, Oklahoma, Ashleigh Fleming and husband Nic of Wichita, Kansas, Samantha Thompson and husband Mike of Derby, Kansas, Peyton Badman of San Diego, California, Connor Richards of Wichita, Kansas, and Remington Richards of Rose Hill, Kansas; great-grandchildren: Ruby Richards, Emersyn Thompson, Lochlan Thompson, and Mark Fleming; one bonus daughter,Tamara Huffman and husband Donnie of Branson, Missouri; bonus grandchildren: Wyatt Hall and wife Tori of Yukon, Oklahoma, and Baylie Hoeck and husband Kyle of Branson, Missouri; bonus great-grandchildren: Kru Hoeck, Rylan Hoeck, Lottie Hoeck, and Henley Hall; and numerous neices, nephews, and cousins.

A Memorial Service will be held in the Roberts Memorial Chapel, Friday, June 12, 2026, at 11:00 AM. Rev. Sam Simmons of Blackwell's Immanuel Baptist Church to officiate. Burial to follow at the Rossville Cemetery in Rossville, Kansas.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation for Breast Cancer Research.

Bettty Jean Mahkuk Rice Passes Away

 Betty Jean Mahkuk Rice, 86, passed away on Tuesday, March 10, 2026 at the Rossville Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center.

She was born April 4, 1939 at Mayetta, the daughter of Pete Matchie and Lucille Mahkuk.

Betty was a member of the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation and the Native American Church.

She married Orville Rice in 1957.  They were divorced and he preceded her in death.

Betty had first worked as a Licensed Practical Nurse.  After she earned her Bachelor's Degree in Social Work from Washburn University, she worked in social services for Four Tribes of Kansas, then Prairie Band Potawatomi Social Services.

She was also preceded in death by two sons, Kevin Rice and Brad Rice, a daughter, Sylvia Johnson, an adopted daughter, Marilyn LaCour, four brothers, Denny Delge, Michael Delge, Pat Mahkuk and Walter Delge, Jr., and three sisters, Ilona Delge, Myra Matchie and Edwina Dickinson.

Survivors include a son, Chris Rice (Kristina), Nedrow, NY, two adopted sons, Wayne Jesseppe and Shon Jesseppe (Carol), all of Horton, a daughter, Shirley Mitchell (Tom), Oskaloosa, two brothers, Roland Matchie, Holton and Fred Mahkuk, Wisconsin, six sisters, Margaret Mahkuc, Mayetta, Eileen Delge and Marilyn Delge, both of Lawrence, Ione Childers, Perry, and Tutti Kerns and Hedy Noland, both of Holton, ten grandchildren, fifteen great grandchildren, two great-great grandchildren, and a host of many other grandchildren that she had a special relationship with.

George William House Passes Away

 George William House, 78, passed away peacefully surrounded by the love of his family. Born on April 19, 1948, George was raised in Rossville, Kansas, where he developed the strong work ethic, resilience, and quiet determination that would define his life.

George worked for many years as a high steel painter, a profession that reflected both his courage and dedication. He took pride in hard work and in providing for those he loved. Known for his steady presence, kind heart, and willingness to help others, George earned the respect and friendship of many throughout his life.

He was devoted to his wife, Lea Jean House, with whom he shared many cherished years of marriage, love, and family. George’s greatest joy came from the time spent with his children and grandchildren creating memories that will be treasured for generations.

George is survived by his loving wife, Lea Jean House; his children, Lea Vincent (House), Jeff Pressgrove, and Shelli Pressgrove; six grandchildren; and many great-grandchildren. He also leaves behind extended family members and friends who will deeply miss his strength, humor, and unwavering love.

He was preceded in death by those family members who welcomed him home in heaven.

George will be remembered for his hard working spirit, his devotion to family, and the legacy of love he leaves behind. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

Volleyball Player to Watch: Nora Burdiek,

 Sports in Kansas Volleyball Player to Watch: Nora Burdiek, Rossville, Sr. OH

Nora Burdiek returns for her senior season as one of the most accomplished six-rotation players in Class 2A after another dominant campaign at Rossville. The 5-foot-11 outside hitter earned First Team All-State, First Team All-Shawnee County, First Team Big East League and Class 2A State All-Tournament Team honors in 2025 while surpassing the 1,000-career kill milestone. Burdiek was one of the state's most productive players last fall, totaling 598 kills and 403 digs to help Rossville finish 29-15 and place fifth at the Class 2A State Tournament. Entering her final high school season, she has amassed an incredible 1,469 career kills and 994 career digs. Already committed to Washburn University, Burdiek has also excelled in basketball and softball, earning multiple SIK All-State honors across all three sports.

With another competitive roster returning, Burdiek believes Rossville has the talent and determination to make another deep postseason run. "I'm super excited for my upcoming senior season," Burdiek said. "We have a very competitive team and we all have similar goals, to make it back to state and overall have a fun, memorable and competitive season." Alongside standout teammate Kenna Perine, Burdiek will look to lead Rossville back to the Class 2A State Tournament and cap off one of the most decorated volleyball careers in school history. #sportsinkansas

: Justin Martinez (FiveSelect)

All reactions:

30

Thomasa Morford Passes Away

Thomasa “Tomi” Ann Morford, 77, of Rossville, Kansas, passed away on July 13, 2026, in Topeka, Kansas.

Tomi was born on January 24, 1949, to Dennis and Delores Farrell. She grew up in the St. Mary’s and Rossville communities and graduated from St. Mary's High School in 1967. Those who knew Tomi recognized her independent spirit early in life, a trait that remained with her throughout her years.

Tomi spent many years working for Blue Cross Blue Shield of Kansas before retiring.

A strong-willed woman with a blunt personality, Tomi was known for her candid nature and willingness to speak her mind. She approached life with determination, independence, and a resilient spirit that carried her through both joys and challenges. Though she did things her own way, those who knew her best understood the love she had for her family. She will be remembered for her strength, honesty, and the lasting impact she made on those who knew and loved her.

Tomi was preceded in death by her parents, Dennis and Delores Farrell; her sister, Jayleen Farrell; and her son, Shawn Perry.

She is survived by her son, Todd Perry and his wife, Stacey, of Rossville, Kansas; her daughter, Brandi Vigneron of Tulsa, Oklahoma; her brother, Denny Farrell of Valley Center, Kansas; six grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and many extended family members and friends who will miss her dearly.

Though she has departed from this life, Tomi's memory will live on through the family she loved and the many lives she touched along the way.

Family and friends are invited to gather in remembrance of Tomi and celebrate her life at a graveside memorial service to be held at Valley View Cemetery in St. Mary’s, Kansas, on Saturday, August 1, 2026, at 2:00 p.m.