Naomi Flett Passes Away

Naomi was born on September 8, 1925 and passed away on Tuesday, June 26, 2018.

Naomi was a resident of Rossville, Kansas at the time of passing.

Memorial Service will be 1:30 p.m. Monday, July 16 th , 2018 at the Evangel United Methodist Church in Holton. Family will greet friends following the memorial service. Inurnment will be in the Hall Cemetery in Delphos at a later date.

Memorials may be given to the Delphos U.M.C. or E.U.M.

Mitchell Doucet Passes Away

Mitchell L. Doucet, 58, of Rossville, passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones on Saturday, June 23, 2018 at Midland Hospice House in Topeka. He was born February 16, 1960 in Bell County, Texas, the son of Joseph William and Gwendolyn May (Ford) Doucet.

Mitchell attended St. George High School in St. George, Kansas. He owned and operated Mitchell’s Garage in Rossville for many years where he will be missed as an honest vehicle caretaker.

Mitchell married Kim on September 6, 2003 in Rossville. She survives. Other survivors include his three daughters, Melissa Caton of Rossville, Miranda Doucet of Washington State, Stephanie Dugan of Rossville, three children by marriage, Chris Gordon of Delia, Cheryl Fisher of Spartanburg, South Carolina, Cory Gordon of West Palm Beach, Florida, ten grandchildren, his sisters, Michelle Turkovic of Council Grove, Jackie Robertson of Stigler, Oklahoma, Jennifer Doucet of Topeka and special nephew, Kevin Chase of Delia.

A Celebration of Mitchell’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m. Monday, July 2, 2018 at the Rossville Christian Church. Private inurnment will take place at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to Midland Care, 200 SW Frazier Circle, Topeka, Kansas 66606.

Dove Southwest Chapel, 3700 SW Wanamaker Rd. is assisting the family. 

To leave the family a special message go to the Dove Cremations website.

For more info about Mitch,  go to:
http://rossvilleksalumninews.blogspot.com/2016/11/mitch-doucet-fundraiser.html

Dorothy Hallmark Passes Away

    Dorothy Helen (Kalb) Hallmark, 91 years of age, passed away on May 18, 2018 while in home hospice at her share residence with son David and his wife Vicki in Houston, Texas. David was at his mother's side when she passed away with cardiac complications. She was blessed to have many loved ones viusit her bedside during the last month of her life.
    Dorothy was born on October 19, 1926 at her Grandmothers Black's home, west of Baldwin City, Kansas. She was the first born of Ralph Ingalls Kalb and Mary Helen (breithaupt) Kalb who were dairy farmers residing at and working the original Black farm. In a few years, the Kalb family grew giving Dorothy two younger sisters, Mary Mildred and Laverne.
    The Kalb family lived a meager life during the depression, having to sew their own dresses made from emptied feed sacks but they made do during the lean years. They are their own produce, eggs, and milk. They often shared their food with more unfortunate neighbors and townsfolk living in Baldwin City.
    At a young age, Dorothy loved to read and listen to mystery programs on the radio. During her life she was oft5en heard saying, "A good book can carry you to far off lands without taking a single step."
    She attended Black Jack School District #9 along with her sisters Mary and Laverne. Black Jack was only a quarter mile to the east of the Kalb's homestead and housed children in grades ine through eight. Dorothy's graduating class had two students.
    She attended Baldwin City High School and though Dorothy had to return home early each day to do her chores, she was an avid member of 4-H, the choir, and the Pep-Club.
In the summer of 1943, after graduating from high school, Dorothy did her part for the war effort by working at The Sunflower Munitions plant in De Soto. One afternoon when returning home on a Sunflower bus she exited and was hit by a drunken driver. She was given little change of living but struggled to do so. She did keep her life, but unfortunately she did not keep her left leg. It was amputated above the knee. The loss was disheartening to the 18 year old Dorothy.
    She missed her first semester of college while completing a lengthy physical and emotional rehabilitation. During this time, her father, modified an old Ford sp his daughter could drive the clutch operated vehicle using hand controls. With much practice she became efficient at driving the car and was able to attend Baker University at Baldwin during the spring semeester of 1944. She drove to school and returned to her home each day.
The following year Dorothy changed her residence to The Independent Cooperative House on campus where she made many life-long friends. Dorothy was affectionately called “Dot”, “Dottie”, but most often “Kalbie” by the residents of the Cooperative. It was said by all that she was sweet, had a friendly personality, a positive out-look on life, and always wore a smile. During her Baker years she was a member of The University Choir, The Home-Economics Club, and The Independents who did charitable works. In her senior she was one of twelve students chosen to The College Fellowship group, representing the Independents at a nation-wide symposium for college groups dedicating their time to the more unfortunate. Dorothy completed her degree after the spring semester of 1947 and in 1948 received her Bachelor of Science degree stressing English and Home Economics Education.
    Little did she know at the time, Dorothy met her future husband at the age of fifteen. Sixteen year old Leslie Hallmark, his mother, sister, and Stepfather attended a small dinner at the Ralph Kalb farmhouse to celebrate Leslie’s mother’s marriage to Howard Kalb. Howard was Ralph Kalb’s uncle and Dorothy’s great-uncle. Although they were distantly related by marriage, Dorothy thought that Leslie was really cute! During WWII, while Dorothy was in school and Les was in the navy, they corresponded with each other and developed a close relationship. They were engaged to each other in 1947 and were married on August 25, 1948. That day Dorothy Helen Hallmark from Baldwin City was wed to Leslie Glenn Hallmark from Wellsville. The wedding took place at The First United Methodist Church in Baldwin, where the members of both families were also members of the same church. The newly married couple took up residency south of Lawrence, Kansas overlooking the Wabaunsee River. While Les worked for The Douglas County Road Works, Dorothy was of the home expecting her first child. Tragedy visited Dorothy’s life once again when her first born (Mary) was premature and died only days after her birth. To allay her grief, Dorothy’s mother convinced her to take her first teaching job in Everest, Kansas. Her mother’s twin brother was Principal and Superintendent of Everest Schools. Dorothy accepted the job offered by her uncle. Though Les stayed at their home outside of Lawrence continuing to work, he made the 60 mile trip to Everest often. With two months left in her teaching contract, Dorothy was with child once again. Dorothy quit her teaching job and the couple moved to Lawrence at 813½ Massachusetts, a large one room flat above a shoe store. A healthy David Hallmark was born in January of 1951. 
    Needing more room, Dorothy and Les moved to a small house 4th street in North Lawrence. Dorothy raised her son while Les worked two different jobs and attended The University of Kansas. In July of 1952 a second son, Alan, was born. In 1954, Les received his Bachelor of Science Degree in Education. The Hallmark’s then moved from Lawrence to Circleville, Kansas for Les to begin his teaching career while Dorothy remained in the home raising her two boys. After one year at Circleville, Dorothy decided to start teaching again. The Hallmarks moved to Narka Kansas, beginning their long list of communities in which one or both would be teaching. The two Hallmark’s teaching careers included 12 different High Schools, but 30 of Dorothy’s 37 years of teaching were in Spring Hill, St. Marys and Rossville. The love of reading influenced Dorothy to shift from the classroom to become a Librarian. She took several college classes during the summer and became Spring Hill High School’s librarian in 1960. She began working toward her Master’s Degree in Library Science the following summer. While in her Masters training program, she transformed the library at Spring Hill from a reading room with no book indexing system into an organized facility where students could do their data gathering and research, but still enjoy a good book once in a while. She earned her MS in Library Science from Emporia State University in 1966. The Hallmarks then moved to the St. Marys-Rossville area and began teaching for USD 321. 
    Dorothy used her librarian talent to transform both St. Marys High School and Rossville High School into cutting edged, technological facilities. This was an accomplishment of which she was quite proud. In 1971, Dorothy and Les left USD 321 for three years, but returned to live in St. Marys while teaching at Rossville for the remainder of their teaching careers. Dorothy retired in 1988 after 12 consecutive at Rossville High School. Both Dorothy and Les had many teacher friends in the area and were well liked by their students. Dorothy and Les bought a fifth wheeler and began travelling extensively throughout all of the 50 states in the US and many trips to Mexico. Dorothy wanted to see, in person, some of those ‘far off lands’ of which she had read. After several years of travel, they sold their house in St. Marys and found a winter home-base at Citrus Valley RV Park in McAllen, Texas. While at The Park, Dorothy organized their library and also became a prodigious quilter, gifting family members and friends with her beautiful products. Each year she donated a quilt to the Lakota tribe in South Dakota that was given to a selected twelve year old homeless girl at Christmas time. Dorothy developed close friendships at Citrus Valley, becoming a member of The Quilters Club, and participating in the activities The Park had to offer. After Leslie passed away in 1996, Dorothy continued to travel the roads in her own mini-RV. She visited her sons’ families in Houston, Texas and Richmond, Virginia during holidays and summers. Dorothy also traveled to Kansas often to see her sisters, their families, and close friends. Dorothy loved to quilt, read, and have fun with her friends and family. You could tell she was contented when she whistled a cheerful tune. When becoming especially pleased, she would excitedly exclaim, “Neat, neat, neat!” After her macular degeneration and mobility problems advanced, Dorothy’s doctors advised that she not live alone. She then moved to Houston, TX and received fulltime care from her son David and his wife Vicki in their home.       Dorothy Hallmark was a benefactor to many organizations: Emporia State University, Baker University, The University of Kansas, Kansas State University, The Animal Justice League, Disabled Veterans, The Paraplegic Artists Group, The Sioux Nation’s St. Joseph’s Indian School, and others. She was especially pleased with establishing and administrating The Hallmark Scholarship Fund immediately after her husband’s death in 1996. The Fund awards a scholarship to a selected college bound high school senior living in the Rossville and St. Mary’s area. She especially loved to receive the thankyou note from each of the 22 recipients from 1996 to 2017. Alas, she did not get to read the 2018 thank you note, as she passed away two days before the message was received. Dorothy Hallmark was a loving daughter, sister, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, great aunt, and a beloved friend to so many other people. She was preceded in death by her parents, Ralph Ingalls Kalb and Mary Helen (Breithaupt) Kalb, daughter Mary Hallmark, husband Leslie G. Hallmark, and both sisters Mary Mildred (Kalb) Clark and Laverne (Kalb) Deay. Surviving family are sons David and Alan, two daughter-in-law’s, five grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren, numerous nieces, nephews, and their families. She loved them all. 
    An August 25th memorial services will be held in Lawrence, Kansas. In lieu of sending flowers, Dorothy’s wishes were that you make a donation to The Hallmark Scholarship Fund or one of your own choosing. If you would like to contribute to the scholarship fund, make your check payable to David G. Hallmark at 8207 Schaffer Lane, Houston, TX. 77070. David is now the administrator of The Hallmark Scholarship Fund

TCF 5K Run Aug 11

    The Rossville Tall Corn Festival 5K and 1-mile fun run will begin at the  Rossville Grade School on Aug. 11.  Registration is 6:30 a.m. The 5K run begins at 7:30 a.m. Proceeds will  benefit the Rossville High School Class of 2020 After-Prom Fund. 
    For more info, contact Jody Badura at (785) 633-5558 or by email at lectricarnp@embarqmail.com. 
    Online registration available at:
https://runsignup.com/Race/KS/Rossville/AnnualRossvilleTallCornFestival5Krun

Twenty Years Since Ultimate Homecoming

     Twenty years ago this fall,  noted photographer Jim Richardson was the Grand Marshall of the homecoming parade that was a part of the Ultimate Homecoming celebration  that year. 
     In 2017, Mr. Richardson was honored with an honorary doctorate from Kansas State U.  The below article talks about his work over the years, which includes "High School, USA."

http://www.k-state.edu/media/newsreleases/2017-09/honorarydoctorate92017.html

Edna (Argo) Brock Passes Away

       Edna Etta (Argo) Brock, 87, of Holton, KS passed away Tuesday, May 22, 2018 at The Pines in Holton. She was born January 6, 1931 in Delia, KS the daughter of Ernest Earl and Etta Belle (Scheidegger) Argo.

          Edna attended rural schools at Neive and Drake. She graduated from Holton High School in 1949. Edna worked for Jackson County for 31 years, 20 of which she served as the County Clerk. She served as president of the Kansas County Clerks Association in 1981. She also worked at Holton Middle School for 7 years. Edna was a member of the First United Methodist Church.

          Edna married Robert L. Brock on August 4, 1956 in Topeka, KS. He preceded her in death on November 13, 2011; celebrating over 55 years of marriage. She was also preceded in death by a brother, Clinton “Bud” Argo; 3 sisters, Pauline Hurla, Adeline Cunningham and Marzine Little.

          Survivors include 3 sons, Steve Brock of Topeka, KS, Clint Brock (Kelly) of Holton, KS and Stan Brock (Charlotte) of Olsburg, KS; 6 grandchildren, Justin Brock (Ashley), Janelle Fannin (Brad), Nikki Rinkes (Justin), Jared Brock (Annie), Matthew Brock (Alyssa) and Cody Brock (Darien); 8 great-grandchildren, Chelsea Brock, Brock & Braelyn Fannin, Carsen & Conner Rinkes, Bodhi & Lila Brock and Emma Brock.

          Funeral Service will be 2:00 p.m., Saturday, May 26, 2018 at the Mercer Funeral Home in Holton. Burial will follow in the Holton Cemetery. Family will greet friends from 1:00 p.m. Saturday until service time. Memorials may be given to the Heart of Jackson Humane Society or Holton Parks and Rec c/o Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 270, Holton, KS 66436.

Emporia State Spring Honors

Emporia State University has announced their list of spring semester honors.   Among those honored are Andrea Rietcheck of  Rossville on the  university honor roll and Ashley Rietcheck of  Rossville, on the university honor roll and School of Business dean’s list.

KSU Spring Honors

The following students from Rossville received honors for the spring semester at Kansas State University:  Haley Brown, Rachel Day, Morgan Foster, Frederick Schuler.  To be so honored,  the student must have a grade point average of at least 3.750 and at least 12 semester hours. 

Isaiah Luellen Most Inspirational In Kansas

From the Capital-Journal:

Rossville senior wrestler Isaiah Luellen was honored as the Best of Kansas Preps most inspirational athlete of the year.

A 3-2-1A state champion as a junior, Luellen endured a series of offseason knee surgeries that not only left his senior season in doubt, but his future in the sport period as doctors told him he might not wrestle again.

Luellen not only fought his way back to the mat, but completed an emotional 23-0 senior season for his second straight 160-pound title.

“I’m just so happy with all that God has blessed me with throughout my wrestling career,” Luellen said. “I can’t be more thankful for it.”

As if the physical setbacks weren’t a big enough hurdle, Luellen also dealt with the mental burden of seeing his coach, mentor and friend, Cody Lambotte, battle with ALS.

“I’ve looked up to Cody Lambotte all my life,” Luellen said. “He’s just been such a good role model and has helped me on the mat, off the mat, with my faith. He’s one of the reasons I’m where I’m at today. I can’t thank him enough.”

For a photo of Isaiah and the complete article of Kansas athletes, go to:
http://www.cjonline.com/sports/20180619/vitztum-putz-named-best-of-kansas-preps-athletes-of-year-rossvilles-luellen-receives-most-inspirational-award

Valerie (Adkins) (78) Eastman Passes Away

Valerie Eastman, 58, Quenemo, passed away Saturday, June 16, 2018.

Valerie was born March 30, 1960 in Topeka to Lou and Mary Lou (Swager) Adkins. She grew up in the Rossville community and graduated from Rossville High School in 1978.

She married Darrell "Grasshopper" Eastman on October 27, 1978. 

She was a cook in the Rossville community for many years and was a C.N.A. and C.M.A. for over 30 years and had been a firefighter for a few years. She loved to cook and take care of people. She was a fun, loving and caring person. Most of all she loved her kids and grandkids. She helped raise many kids, some still call her mom. She was loved by many and hated by none.

She is survived by her husband Darrell of the home; son, Chance Eastman, Overbrook; daughter, Christi Eastman, Michigan Valley, parents; grandchildren, Trinaty, Gage, Samara, Caydance, Talyn, Jordan, Riley, Emma; brothers, Jim (Misty) Adkins, Topeka; sisters, Margaret Shelman, Berryville, AR, Janet Adkins, Barns, KS; brother-in-laws, Gary (Joyce) Ward, Delia, KS, Garold Ward, Topeka, Bob Ward, Delia, KS; sister-in-laws, Vicki (Dave) Rezac, Delia, KS, Debb Ward, Sue Ward, and Sandy (Darvin) Rogers, all California, MO, Mary Morelan, Poplar Bluffs, MO; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by sister-in-laws, Helen Ward and Pauletta High; and nephew, Stevie Evers.

A Celebration of Valerie's life will be held at a later date.

Dove Southwest Chapel is assisting the family with arrangements. 

Memorial contributions may be made to the Valerie Eastman Memorial Fund, c/o Kansas State Bank, PO Box 325, Overbrook, KS 66524.

Henry Segura Passes Away

Sgt. Henry Segura USMC Ret. Passed away June 12, 2018 at Select Specialty Hospital in Kansas City. Henry was born in Topeka, Kansas, on August 6, 1936, son of Juan and Antonia Segura.

He married Theresa Shufeldt on August 2, 1969, where together they had two sons. They later divorced.

Henry married Wilma Viles Dominguez on January 18 in Lawrence, Kansas. Together they raised his two sons, Michael and Richard Segura both of Topeka, Kansas.

He attended Topeka Public Schools and graduated from Topeka High in 1954. He joined the United States Army Reserve on June 8, 1953. After his tour he joined the United States Marine Corps where he retired on July 30, 1970.

He had a very full life. Stationed in Okinawa, Philippines, Hawaii, China, Wake Island, Guam, and North Vietnam. Henry guarded Madam Nu, Climbed Mount Fuji, and from 1962 to 1965 he road shotgun for pilots from I-Core. He guarded President Eisenhower during his trip to Japan and Okinawa. He loved his country and was very proud to serve.

Henry also worked at Ed Marlings T.V. and Small Appliance Repair from 1970-1973, then went on to work at St. Francis Hospital where he was a maintenance electrician from 1973-1995. He was a member of Wanamaker Seventh Day Adventist Church, and the American Legion Post 31 in Rossville. He loved working on electronics and cars and treasured spending time with his family and helping others.

Henry is preceded in death by both of his parents; his brother John Segura Jr. and his sisters Romona S. Alvares and Rita S. Charay.

He is survived by his wife Wilma of 43 years; his two sons Michael (Pam Cross) Segura and Richard Segura; brother Pete T. Segura and his sister Carolina S. Hernandez; and three step grandchildren, Daniel Jackson, Jared Jackson, and Matthew Cross.

Funeral Services will be 11:00 am Friday, June 15, 2018 at Wanamaker Seventh Day Adventist Church. He will lie in state after 2:00 p.m. Thursday, June 14, 2018. Family will receive friends at Brennan Mathena Funeral Home from 5:00 p.m. till 7:00 p.m. Interment will be held at Mount Calvary Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Disabled Veterans Association and sent in the care of Brennan Mathena Funeral Home. To leave fond memories or condolences visit www.brennanmathenafh.com.

Rossville Library Events

summer EVENTS at rossvile  library

• Storytime
  • Jun 14 18
  • 10:15 am - 10:45 am
• Yoga with Cat McMahon
  • Jun 14 18
  • 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
• Main Street Bookies Book Club
  • Jun 15 18
  • 10:00 am - 11:00 am
• Board of Trustees Meeting
  • Jun 20 18
  • 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
• Storytime
  • Jun 21 18
  • 10:15 am - 10:45 am
• Yoga with Cat McMahon
  • Jun 21 18
  • 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
• Storytime
  • Jun 28 18
  • 10:15 am - 10:45 am
• Yoga with Cat McMahon
  • Jun 28 18
  • 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
• Closed for Independence Day
  • Jul 4 18
  • 12:00 am
• Storytime
  • Jul 5 18
  • 10:15 am - 10:45 am

Josephine (Barney) (43) Harkness Passes Away

Josephine B. Harkness, 92, of Topeka, passed away Saturday, June 9, 2018.

She was born December 18, 1925, in Rossville, Kansas, the daughter of Joseph and Alice (Redmon) Barney. 

She graduated from Rossville High School in 1943 and the University of Kansas with a Bachelor’s of Arts in 1949. Later, she earned a Master’s Degree in Journalism from Washburn University.

As an Air Force wife, she and her family lived in Japan from 1954 until 1957, where she served as base librarian. She often spoke of having crossed the Pacific twice.

She was also employed as a school teacher, book editor and researcher throughout her life.

Survivors include two sons, C. Eric Harkness, Topeka and Tom (Cynthia) Harkness, Woodstock, IL and two granddaughters, Anna and Elisa Harkness.

She was preceded in death by her parents and two brothers, Dale and Kenneth Barney.

Josephine enjoyed reading, writing poetry, sewing, cooking and traveling. 

Private graveside services will be held at Rossville Cemetery. 

Memorial contributions may be made to NAMI Kansas, P.O. Box 675, Topeka, KS 66601. 

Legion Feast June 15

AMERICAN LEGION POST 31, Rossville: All you can eat Crawfish, Shrimp Boil, Mountain Oysters, 4:30 and 5:30 p.m. Friday, June 15. Meals start at $12.50-$25. (785) 584-6177.

Sports Council Award Nominees

On Thursday the finalists for the Topeka Shawnee County Sports Council high school awards were announced.   The awards will  be announced on June 28.

Awards will be presented to the top senior student athletes for the fall, winter and spring seasons as well as awards for the top overall male and female athletes and the most inspirational male and female athletes.

The nominees announced for the Winter Season included two Rossville atheletes.

Winter male — DeShawn Hanika, Hayden; Angelo Plakio, Highland Park; Isaiah Luellen, Rossville; Zeke Metz, Seaman; Nathan Mercer, Shawnee Heights; Jordan Priddy, Silver Lake; Fischer Carr, Topeka High; Koriyon Carr, Topeka West; Tarrin Fisher, Washburn Rural.

Winter female — Madison Ellis, Hayden; Alijah McCracken, Highland Park; Jalyn Porter, Rossville; Kishno Bell, Seaman; Lydia Ostenson, Shawnee Heights; Morgan Carranza, Shawnee Heights; Makaila Cowdin, Topeka West; Kendall Michalski, Washburn Rural.

All MID-EAST League Softball Team

First team

Rachel Allen, Riley County; Lexi Cobb, Silver Lake; Alexis Hafenstine, Wabaunsee; Josie Harrison, St. Marys; Hallie Hay, Silver Lake; Ellie Hogle, Silver Lake; Peyton Hurla, ST. Marys; Demi Kunkel, Rock Creek; Kelcie Kippes, Rossville; Daryn Lamprecht, Silver Lake; Kinlyn Lundin, Rossville; Abby Pressgrove, Silver Lake; Elisa Princic, Rossville; Gracie Rabe, Rossville; Autymn Schreiner, Wabaunsee.

Honorable mention

Rylee Brecheisen, Rossville; Beth Hogle, Silver Lake; Logan Hurla, St. Marys; Reagan Hurla, St. Marys; Alyssa Lohmeyer, Wabaunsee; Abby Oliver, Wabaunsee; Haley Petty, Rock Creek; Miranda Tegtmeier, Riley County; Saige VanSickle, Riley County.

All MID-EAST League Baseball Team

First team

Cale Adams, sr., Silver Lake; Toby Becker, jr., Rock Creek; Logan Brown, jr., Wabaunsee; Trent Byers, sr., Silver Lake; Cody Dyche, jr., Rossville; Dalton Engle, sr., Riley County; Mitchell Flanagan, sr., St. Marys; Tucker Gehrt, sr., Rock Creek; Josh Grynkiewicz, sr., Riley County; Tyler Halstead, sr., Riley County; Garrett Harmison, so., Riley County; Cameron Minihan, jr., Rock Creek; Ty Nelson, sr., Riley County; Ian Russell, jr., Rock Creek; Derek Shaheen, sr., Rock Creek; Riley Tubbs, sr., Wabaunsee; Carson Zenger, sr., Rock Creek.

Honorable mention

Nic Allen, fr., Riley County; Josh Boyd, sr., Silver Lake; Will Boyd, sr., Silver Lake; Jon Brase, sr., St. Marys; Chad Chambers, so., Wabaunsee; Austin DeWeese, sr., Rock Creek; Connor Holle, fr., Riley County; Sean McCann, jr., St. Marys; Jared Morris, sr., Rossville; Chase Nelson, sr., Wabaunsee.

Ruth Cowan Passes Away

Ruth May Cowen, 92, Rossville, passed away Tuesday, June 5, 2018.

She was born March 1, 1926, in Hollister, Missouri, the daughter of Houston Duncan and Ida (White) Barker. 

Ruth was employed by Bobo's Drive In, Huntoon location, retiring after 37 years.

She was a member of Rossville Christian Church, Rossville Senior Center, where she served as a past board member. 

Ruth married Earl Cowen on November 10, 1943. He preceded her in death. Other survivors include her children: Shirley Driscoll, Michael (Beatriz) Cowen, all of Rossville and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, step-father, Jim Barker and brother, Orville Barker.

Visitation will begin at 12 noon Thursday, June 7, 2018 at Parker-Price Cremations, Funerals & Receptions. Funeral service will follow at 1:00 p.m. Burial will be at Memorial Park Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Rossville Senior Center or Rossville Christian Church. To leave a message for the family online, please visit www.ParkerPriceFH.com.

Rossville High Alumni Reunion

    The Rossville High School Alumni reunion, dinner and scholarship presentation was held Saturday evening, June 2nd at the Dekat Center in Rossville.  Attending were 110 alumni and guests.  The evening included social time with a catered dinner served at 6:00 p.m.   The program started with several former cheerleaders leading the Rossville High School Song. 

    Guest speaker was Travis VanVleck,  principal of Rossville Grade School.   Travis was a former winner of a Rossville Alumni Scholarship.  

    Kylee Badura, Maura Buhler, Isaiah Luellen and Jalyn Porter were honored as the Alumni Foundation Scholarship winners for 2018.  They were each awarded a $1,500. scholarship to be used for their higher education.  As part of the program, the winners introduced themselves to the guests and told of their accomplishments in school and their goals for the future.  

    Clyde Strimple (class of 1947) was honored for his dedication and support of the Alumni Foundation.  He is stepping down from the Alumni Foundation board after serving for many years. 

    All alumni attending were introduced and asked to stand to be recognized.  The milestone class of 1968 (50 years) had 10 classmates attending and the class of 1958 (60 years) had seven.  Oldest graduates in attendance were Jim Fitzgerald and Juanita Keller Raab.  They were graduates of the class of 1941 - 77 years ago.  After the meeting, class photos were taken.  It was a fun evening for all. 

Scholarship winners.    Left to right    

Isaiah Luellen, Kylee Badura, Maura Buhler and Jalyn Porter.

Class of 1968   left to right    

Rick Dayton, Doug French, Cheryl Mermis Frederick, Rovell Heslet, Cherrie Fairbanks Argabright, 

Joe Simecka, Bill Smith, Jr., Larry Martinek, Calvin Lytle, Dennis Tuller.

Class of 1958   left to right    

Laird French, Ed Lloyd, Linda Hurley Hudson, David Stadler, 

Jane Rogers McClelland, Mary K Dolezilek Funke, Darrel Rezac

Moravan Lodge Table At Topeka Gives

Our Moravan Lodge Table at the TOPEKA GIVES SHOW is all set to be seen by hundreds of people today , 

Tuesday June 5 at the Fairlawn Plaza in Topeka,  Come and see what Diana Dolezilek has done to

exemplify our Lodge and to show it off.  Now we need your support to make a donation to support some of the

Lodge and the Bohemian Hall projects that we have planned.  Now is the time to make that donation.  When 

making your donation you just enhance your donation by the Topeka Foundation of an additional 15% or so.  

Come by our table and say hi.  Doors are open from 7 AM till 6 PM.  Call me for any additional information at 785 633 5564,

Our next Polka Dance will be October 6, 2018. Plan on attending and enjoy some good ole Polka Music, 

Thanks,

Douglas Martinek

Rossville Moravan Lodge

RHS Honor Society Members/Officers

Rossville Jr./Sr. High School inducted 16 new members into the National Honor Society at the Spring Awards Night on May 9, 2018.  Senior Rylee Brecheisen; Juniors Caila Hill and Stacey Keithline; and sophomores Avery Anderson, Kaleb Badura, Danielle Bittner, Kody Davoren, Erika Hatina, Leah Hudson, Kinlyn Lundin, Danielle Moore, Randy Morelli, Taylor Morelli, Michaela Paulsen, Jenna Rodehorst, and Sydney Wonnell lit the candle of honor and recited the pledge as new members.

RHS existing members are Seniors Kylee Badura, Breaira Bergstresser, Tronnie Blair, Maura Buhler, Ashley Douglas, Perry Foster, Cory Hadsall, Holden Hurla, Abigail McCrory,

Hannah Miller, and Jalyn Porter and Juniors Jordan Bittner, MaKenzie Decklar, Kaytlin Dohrman, Cheyenne Reese, and Ava Stipp.

NHS officers for the 2017-2018 school year were recently elected and are as follows: President Jordan Bittner, Vice-President Caila Hill, Secretary Taylor Morelli, and Treasurer MaKenzie Decklar.

Membership in the National Honor Society is based on a student’s performance in the areas of scholarship, service, leadership, and character.  In order to be eligible, students must first have a grade point average of at least 3.2 and have made significant contributions to their school and community, as well as maintain strong moral character.

All Mid-East League Academic Team

Freshmen                    Sophomores                Juniors               Seniors     

Destiny Bergstresser       Zach Archer                    Betsy Beetz           Kylee Badura

Kaiden Brown                Kaleb Badura                 Jordan Bittner     Breaira Bergstresser

Jaycee Fiedler                 Dani Bittner                    Mia Casadevall     Tronnie Blair       

Tatum Gentry                 Kody Davoren                Caila Hill              Rylee Brecheisen 

Madison Horgan             Meagan Huston              Kelcie Kippes       Nick Brummer     

Jordan Quinones            Randy Morelli                Elisa Princic          Maura Buhler      

Parker Kenny                 Taylor Morelli                Berta Stojkovska   Ashley Douglas   

Austin Klesath                Jenna Rodehorst                                          Abigail Escobar   

Breck McCrory               Sydney Wonnell                                          Perry Foster

Peyton Price                                                                                       Cory Hadsall

Gracie Rabe                                                                                       Holden Hurla

William Reeves                                                                                  Meg Kirk

Julia Streit                                                                                         Abigail McCrory 

Chris VanderPutten                                                                           Hannah Miller                                                                                                                 Jalyn Porter

                                                                                                          Kathleen Schuler 

Rossville High Awards

During the annual Spring Awards Night at Rossville Jr./Sr. High School held on May 9, 2018, the following awards were presented:

AMERICAN LEGION AWARDS = Maura Buhler & Perry Foster. The American Legion Jimmy Lillard Post 31 awards two students each year with a certificate and medal.  The students are chosen by the faculty based on the criteria of courage, honor, leadership, patriotism, scholarship, and service. 

TOPEKA CAPITAL-JOURNAL ALL STATE ACADEMIC AWARD = Kylee Badura.  This award is sponsored by the Topeka Capital-Journal. Every Kansas high school selects one individual to represent their school based on academic and extracurricular performances. (Topeka Capital-Journal Honorable Mention All-State Academic Team)

KSHSAA CITIZENSHIP AWARDS = Holden Hurla & Hannah Miller

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 for 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.

DALE DENNIS AWARD = Ashley Douglas

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. 

U.S. ARMY SCHOLAR-ATHLETE AWARDS = Presented by Staff Sergeant Ian Sanchez to Isaiah Luellen & Jalyn Porter. Recipients of this award are determined by faculty nominations and must demonstrate commitment to both academics and athletics.

U.S. MARINES OUTSTANDING STUDENT AWARDS

Awards are presented in three different categories: The Scholastic Excellence Awards were presented to Isaiah Luellen & Abigail McCrory for their academic achievements. The Semper Fidelis Award was given to Daniel Borcherding for excellence and commitment to the band program.  The Distinguished Athlete Awards were presented to Maura Buhler & Holden Hurla for their accomplishments in sports throughout the school year.

JOHN JOHNSON LEADERSHIP AWARD = Breaira Bergstresser

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.

SENIOR INSPIRATION AWARD = Isaiah Luellen & Maura Buhler

Isaiah has continually demonstrated an amazing work ethic in many aspects of his life. He has the courage to be himself and is not afraid to let others know his beliefs. He is level headed, insightful, and passionate. His perseverance through injuries and his dedication and desire to overcome obstacles has been an inspiration to his classmates, to younger students, and to the adults around him.  

Maura has been an integral part of her class, her school, and her community for her entire life. She dedicates herself to helping others and makes a genuine effort to not only know everyone in the school, but to support their accomplishments by attending all school events. She is able to maintain her composure in any situation and is an amazing leader, leading by example and making others want to follow. Her integrity and commitment is unquestionable. She volunteers endlessly, organizing many school, church, TASMAD, and Student Council events.

MICHAEL KELLER AWARD = Cory Hadsall

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 recipient of this award must display strong citizenship, respect for others, attention to details, and have excellent attendance and punctuality.

TOBY MCCULLOUGH AWARD=Jalyn Porter

This award is presented to honor the leadership and service to RHS by Mr. Toby McCullough. Mr. McCullough has been an educator in USD 321 for 34 years and in education for 37 years. 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 in giving back to the community.

RONALD REAGAN STUDENT LEADER AWARDS = Jalyn Porter, Maura Buhler, Ashley Douglas, & Perry Foster (receiving a certificate and silver coin)

Students selected must exemplify the meaning of student leadership to honor Pres. Reagan’s legacy of leadership and service. Students were chosen for their participation in extracurricular activities and pursuit of leadership roles that make a positive difference in their school and community. Recipients must value education, have an affinity for discovery and lifelong learning, and display drive, integrity, and good citizenship.

KANSAS GOVERNOR’S SCHOLAR=Kathleen Schuler

Each high school in Kansas nominates one student as their top scholar to receive this award. The criteria includes GPA, ACT, class rank, and strength of schedule.

ACT SCHOLARS=Cory Hadsall & Kathleen Schuler (receiving a Rossville Academic Excellence patch) Awarded to students at Rossville High School that receive a score of 30 or higher on their ACT.

KANSAS ACT SCHOLARS=Kathleen Schuler

Given to students that score a 32 or above on their ACT. Kathleen scored a 33 out of a possible 36 on her ACT.

U.S. YOUTH SENATE AWARD=Maura Buhler

Every high school in Kansas nominates one student to represent their school in a competition in which the outcome is based entirely on a test. The test consists of multiple choice, true/false, and essay questions over the government, the Constitution, and the current and former leaders of our country.

KANSAS HONOR SCHOLARS=Kylee Badura, Ashley Douglas, Cory Hadsall, Hannah Miller, & Kathleen Schuler (receiving certificate and medallion to wear at graduation) The Kansas Honor Scholar Program sponsored by KU Endowment and Alumni Associations recognizes and awards high school seniors for their academic achievements.  Recipients rank in the top ten percent of their class based on academic records through the end of their junior year.

2018 Scholarships For RHS Graduates

Rossville High School held its annual Spring Awards Night on Wednesday, May 9, 2018 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.  Your dedication to our students is greatly appreciated.

The following scholarships were presented:

Custom Wood Products Scholarship: ($1000 renewable)

Presented to Ashley Douglas. The scholarship was established by Donald and Pamela Lake to further Custom Wood’s commitment to the communities of Rossville and St. Marys.

Rossville Booster Club Scholarship: ($200)

Presented by Laurie Glotzbach to Melinda Kirk. The award began in 2012 and the recipient must have participated in a KSHSAA activity throughout high school.

Bryan Lindstrom Inspirational Scholarship: ($500)

Presented to Kathleen Schuler. This scholarship is a tribute to Bryan, who was an inspiration to others and lost his life to cancer in 2013.

Rossville High School Alumni Association: ($1500)

Presented by Kathy Kovar to Kylee Badura, Maura Buhler, Jalyn Porter, & Isaiah Luellen. The Association was founded in 1998 and has awarded over $28,500 to deserving students in this 21-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. 

Rossville United Methodist Church: ($2000 renewable scholarship)

Presented by Tom Lacock to Kathleen Schuler.

The award is given to seniors that are members of the church.

Shawnee County Farm Bureau Scholarship: ($500)

Presented by Leroy Russell to Perry Foster & Kylee Badura. Recipients must have a parent or grandparent that is a member of Shawnee County Farm Bureau.

Bank of the Flint Hills Employee Donor Advised Scholarship: ($500)

Presented by Joe Fanning to Hannah Miller. This fund combines the generous gifts of bank employees to provide scholarships to area seniors.

Kaw Valley Education Association Scholarship: ($250)

Presented to Isaiah Luellen. KVEA annually raises money and presents scholarships to an RHS and SMHS student planning to pursue a career in education.

Doug Perine Memorial Scholarship: ($500)

Presented to Hannah Miller. 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.

Les Hallmark Memorial Scholarship: ($400)

Presented to Ashley Douglas. The scholarship was established by Dorothy Hallmark and is awarded annually in memory of her husband Les who was an Art teacher at Rossville High School for many years.

Laurel Stone Jackson Scholarship: ($500)

Presented by Laurel Jackson to Maura Buhler

This is the 3^rd year for the scholarship established by Mrs. Jackson following her retirement as the school librarian. Applicants are required to write an essay over a book they have read.

Cecile Zlatnik Memorial Scholarship: ($200)

Presented to Maura Buhler & Jalyn Porter. The scholarship is presented annually in memory of Cecile to recognize individuals who demonstrate outstanding character, service, and leadership.

Cole Arnold Memorial Scholarship: ($500)

Presented by Toby and Ann McCullough to Hannah Miller.

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

Rossville Community Development Committee (RCDC) Scholarship: ($300)

Presented by Morgan Hansen & Casey Graves to Hannah Miller. The scholarship is based on achievements, community involvement, and contributions to the community of Rossville.

Rossville Rustlers 4-H Scholarship: ($250)

Presented by Laurie Glotzbach to Dawson Schaefer, Perry Foster, & Kathleen Schuler. Recipients must be members of Rossville Rustlers 4-H and have made a significant contribution to the group.

P.E.O. Scholarship: ($300)

Presented by Lynette Hudson to Jalyn Porter. This scholarship is awarded annually to young ladies from each of the area high schools.

Pete Darting Memorial Scholarship: ($150)

Presented by Dennis Darting to Perry Foster. The award was established in 2008 by the Darting family to honor Mr. Darting, an avid supporter of the Rossville Dawgs.

RHS Opportunity Scholarship:

This is the 6^th year for the award, which is provided by anonymous donors. 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. $200 scholarships were awarded to Jalyn Porter & Perry Foster. $300 scholarships were awarded to Ashley Douglas & Kylee Badura. $500 scholarships were awarded to Hannah Miller & Kathleen Schuler.

Ron Monhollon Memorial Scholarship:

Presented by Ronda Monhollon to Holden Hurla. The award is given to a student planning to continue their education in a vocational program.

Duane Parr Memorial Scholarship: ($500)

Presented to Abigail Escobar. This award is made possible by donations from family and friends as an endowment to honor Mr. Parr, who passed away in January of 2006.  The recipient must have participated in high school band.

Washburn Tech Certification:

Rossville High School would like to recognize the following students for completing their programs of study at Washburn Tech:

Mary Stillion—CNA certification

MaKayla Lane—CNA certification

Kody Hurla—Automotive Service Technician certification

Stephen Cooney—Electical Technology certification

Sean Rewerts—EMT certification

Tanner Renner—Welding certification

Isiah Daughty—Welding certification

Highland Community College Certification:

Rossville High School would like to recognize the following student for completing her program of study at Highland Community College:

Jessica Sowers—CNA certification

Congratulations on your accomplishments!