Genealogy Bug

Ron A. Radke

2011-06-10T14:50:00.001-04:00

Bryant Funeral Home and Nicholson-Ricke Funeral Home

Ron A. Radke
(March 28, 1945 - June 7, 2011)

Ron A. Radke, 66, died June 7, 2011 at Cherry Village Nursing Home, Great Bend, Kansas. He was born March 28, 1945 at Great Bend, the son of LaVerne F. and Beatrice C. (Hull) Radke. He married Jeanie Becker September 11, 1965 at McPherson, Kansas. A lifetime Great Bend resident, Mr. Radke was owner and operator of Discount Trading. He was a veteran of the United States Navy.

Mr. Radke was a member of First United Methodist Church, NRA, NBRSA, IHMSA, NRCA, and Sunflower Rod and Custom Association. He was a car builder, gunsmith, and certified golf club maker.

Survivors include his wife, Jeanie Radke, of the home; one daughter, Lori Bieberle and husband Greg, Phoenix, Arizona; one sister, Sharon Kubitscheck and husband Larry, Great Bend; and one granddaughter, Ashley Bieberle.

Funeral services will be at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, June 11, 2011 at Bryant Funeral Home. The Reverend Tom Sheldon will officiate. Burial will be in Great Bend Cemetery. Friends may call from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., with the family receiving friends from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., Friday, June 10, 2011 at Bryant Funeral Home. Memorials are requested to Hospice Care of Kansas, in care of Bryant Funeral Home.

Fern Leona Boyce

2011-05-11T17:02:00.000-04:00

Beckwith Services & Monuments

Fern Leona Boyce
(November 14, 1921 - April 24, 2011)

Jetmore - Fern Leona Cowles Boyce, 89, died April 24, 2011 in Stillwater, Oklahoma. She was born on a farm in Ness County, Kansas on November 14, 1921 to Lydia and Walter Cowles. She attended grade school and 3 years of high school in Ness County. The family moved to Hodgeman County where Fern completed her senior year and graduated from Jetmore High School. Everything changed as World War II began. Fern’s sweetheart, Glen Boyce, was drafted and left for service in the United States Army. Fern decided that was what she wanted to do and as soon as she turned 21 (the required age at that time) enlisted in the Women’s Auxiliary Army Corp. She completed basic training and Motor Transportation School at Ft. DeMoines, Iowa. After school she was transferred to Ft. Adams, Rhode Island located about a mile from Newport, RI. There she drove an ambulance, mail truck and staff car for several officers. This job took her all over the area and as far as Boston, Massachusetts. After about 6 months, the Women’s Auxiliary Army Corp was changed to the Women’s Army Corp and staying in required re-enlistment. Fern re-enlisted and served as a Chaplin’s assistant at Ft. Wright, New York doing office work and helping with Sunday services. She applied for a discharge in 1945 to come home to help her father care for her mother who was very ill. Glen was discharged in October, 1945. Fern and Glen Boyce were married on November 23, 1945 in Larned, KS. That marriage was blessed with two daughters. Glen and Fern farmed in Hodgeman County. Fern was a hard working farmer’s wife and mother. She always had a garden and chickens to help put food on the table. She was a very talented seamstress. Although it wasn’t her favorite thing to do, she was a great cook. Fern was a 4-H sewing leader for many years and choir director at the First Baptist Church in Jetmore. She worked part-time during tax season in Jack Dalton’s office while the kids were still in school. Years later, Glen and Fern drove a school bus for 8 years and Fern worked in the business office of Hodgeman County Health Center for 11 years, retiring in 1987. Upon retiring from farming, Glen & Fern resided in Jetmore where she was a member of the Jetmore Senior Center, until the early 2000’s. Fern has resided in assisted care for the past several years. Fern is preceded in death by her mother and father, one brother, Kenneth Cowles, and one sister Ruby Delaney, her husband Glen and her daughter Sandie. She is survived by one daughter, Pat Ardern of Stillwater, OK, 4 grandchildren, Craig Gustin, Christina Humes, Shannon Layman and Jeff Layman and three great grandchildren, Cooper Humes, Andie Humes and Marcus Layman.

Funeral will be at 2:00 p.m. Saturday at the United Methodist Church, Jetmore, with Pastor Dennis Fulton presiding. Visitation will be from 9a.m. to 8p.m. Thursday and Friday at Beckwith Funeral Home, Jetmore. Burial will be in the Fairmount Cemetery, Jetmore.

Memorials may be sent to the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation in care of the funeral home.

James E. "Pappy" Bell

2011-04-12T19:00:00.002-04:00

Bryant Funeral Home and Nicholson-Ricke Funeral Home

James E. "Pappy" Bell
(May 18, 1928 - April 10, 2011)

James E. “Pappy” Bell, 82, died April 10, 2011 at his home surrounded by his loving family in Great Bend, Kansas. He was born May 18, 1928 at Peabody, Kansas, the son of Jesse M. and Anna (Swift) Bell. He married Grace Ann Smith June 15, 1952 at Great Bend. A Great Bend resident for sixty years, coming from Eastern Kansas, he worked for Petro-log and Tomlinson Oil Company until his retirement in 1989. He was a United States Army veteran of the Korean Conflict.

Mr. Bell was a member of King United Methodist Church, Great Bend. He was a loving husband, father, and brother, and could always be found in his garage working on cars, and was an accomplished auto mechanic. He always enjoyed racing and watching his grandkids in football, wrestling, and motorcycle racing.

Survivors include his wife, Grace Ann Bell, of the home; one son, Jimmy Bell and wife Elysia, Hoisington, Kansas; four daughters: Karen Birzer and husband David, Cody, Wyoming; Janis West and husband Marty, Wichita, Kansas; Rhonda Spencer and husband Kevin, Gering, Nebraska; and Jamie Boor and Raymond Horton, Hoisington; two sisters: Naydene Hefner and husband Ray, Austin, Texas; and Betty Lewis, Kerrville, Texas; twelve grandchildren; fourteen great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by one daughter, Lisa Jo Bell; three brothers, Howard Bell, David Bell, and Raymond Bell; and one sister, Grace Bell Petre.

Funeral services will be at 10:30 a.m., Thursday, April 14, 2011 at Bryant Funeral Home with the Reverend John Grummon and Pastor Scott Tempero officiating. Burial will be in Hillcrest Memorial Park. Friends may call from 1:00 to 9:00 p.m., Wednesday, April 13, 2011 with the family receiving friends from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Memorials are requested to Golden Belt Home Health and Hospice, in care of the funeral home.

Rock Wayne Becker

2011-02-28T11:11:00.001-05:00

Bryant Funeral Home and Nicholson-Ricke Funeral Home

Rock Wayne Becker
(September 14, 1960 - February 26, 2011)

Rock Wayne Becker, 50, died Saturday, February 26, 2011 as a result of an automobile accident. He was born September 14, 1960 the son of Wayne and Karen (Brenner) Becker. He married Ivy Buhrle December 31, 2006 at Great Bend, Kansas. A lifetime Great Bend resident, he was president of WHB, Inc., and a director and part owner of Becker Tire. He founded Vine Foundation and Proclaim Jesus King Ministries.

Mr. Becker was an active elder and member of Faith Community Church. He was a certified judge of Kansas City Barbeque Society and founded Golden Belt Regional Food Program, an affiliation of Angel Food Ministries and was active in broadcasting a radio program to Africa and the Middle East with World Harvest Radio.

Survivors include his wife, Ivy Becker, of the home; three sons: Heath Duntz and wife Wanita, St. John, Kansas; Jered Becker, Wichita, Kansas; and Malaki Becker, of the home; two daughters: Vienna Becker and Adelia Becker, both of the home; two sisters: Tammy A. Hayden and husband Randy, Great Bend; and Teri K. Stephenson and husband Todd, Hutchinson, Kansas; one brother, Ricky D. Becker and wife Johnita, Hutchinson; and three grandchildren.

Funeral service will be at 10:00 a.m., Thursday, March 3, 2011 at First United Methodist Church. Pastor Sandy Kennedy will officiate. Burial will be in Great Bend Cemetery. Friends may call from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., Wednesday, March 2, 2011 with the family receiving friends from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., all at Bryant Funeral Home. Memorials are requested to Barton County 4-H or American Bible Society, in care of the funeral home.

Connie Virginia Keller 1934-2011

2011-01-23T12:24:00.002-05:00

PAWNEE ROCK - Connie Virginia Keller, 76, died Jan. 18 at Promise Regional Medical Center, Hutchinson.

She was born August 22, 1934 in El Paso, Texas, the daughter of Carlos and Maria Ruth Padron Baca. A resident of Pawnee Rock, formerly of Larned, she managed Bunny Lane Salvage south of Larned, for several years.

She was of the Christian faith.

On March 17, 1975, she married Melvin J. Keller at Larned. He survives.

Other survivors include: two sons, William Padron, Larned, Will Keller, Timken; two daughters, Virginia Vestal, Leoti, Lurene Keller, Hutchinson; two brothers, Carlos Baca Jr., Phoenix, Ariz. and Jesus Baca, of California; two sisters, Jessie Lascurain, Yuba City, Calif., Josie Burg, Bellflower, Calif.; 14 grandchildren, 25 great-grandchildren and one great-great grandchild.

Memorial Service will be at 11 a.m. Jan. 26 at Morell Funeral Home, Larned, with Pastor Johnny Augmon presiding.

Memorial may be sent to Alzheimer's Association in care of Morell Funeral, Home, P.O. Box 124, Larned, KS 67550-0124.

Personal condolences may be left at www.morellfuneralhome.com.

Funeral arrangements provided by
Morell Funeral Home
P.O. Box 124
Larned, KS 67550-0124
620-285-2177
Great Bend (Kan.) Tribune, Jan. 23, 2011

2010 Necrology

2011-01-01T13:29:00.003-05:00

Jean (Morelli) Alexander
23 Aug 1929-14 Jan 2010

Paul Matthew Schweitzer
12 Nov 1920-23 Jan 2010

Frances R. (Allen) Plaster
6 Oct 1922-31 Jan 2010

Jon Ramon Keller
18 Aug 1938-10 Feb 2010

Martha Kate (Robinson) Abram
21 Apr 1929-13 Feb 2010

Marilyn Jo (Querry) Becker
12 Apr 1948-24 Feb 2010

Krystal Lynn Arnold
10 Apr 1984-14 Mar 2010

Lesley Everett Reed
26 Sep 1944-14 Mar 2010

Lois Maxine (Roberts) Reed
19 Sep 1924-16 Mar 2010

Margaret Ruth (Hixon) Bivens
22 Jun 1934-30 Mar 2010

Bobby Haynes Roberts
22 Feb 1928-14 May 2010

Virginia (Price) Brown
16 Jun 1924-21 May 2010

Cecil Eugene Smith
5 Jul 1925-24 May 2010

Donna Mae (Rowley) Wegele
1 May 1943-5 Jul 2010

Gail Keller Hixon
24 Feb 1927-12 Aug 2010

Robert Collins Truax
3 Sep 1917-17 Sep 2010

Dewey Dean Haddon
20 Jul 1938-20 Sep 2010

Shirley June (Truax) Hoyer
21 Feb 1934-29 Oct 2010

Mary Carolyn (Weldon) Gasaway
7 Jun 1918-30 Oct 2010

Gary Edward Swanson
13 Sep 1956-1 Nov 2010

Gregory Lewis Barber
15 Aug 1959-22 Nov 2010

Steven Ray Roberts
23 Feb 1945-14 Dec 2010

Ruby Marie (Baker) Shumaker
10 Jun 1919-21 Dec 2010

Gone, But Not Forgotten

Visiting With Our Favorite Neighbor, June Berglund

2010-11-10T20:30:00.004-05:00

Kathy (Smith) Keller, June Berglund, Kay (Smith) Booth and Karyle (Smith) McMannama

June Alene Berglund

2010-11-10T20:00:00.004-05:00

I just found out about the passing of a very special person in my life. My family lived next door to the Berglund's for years. Floyd and June's boys were the only other kids on the block so we became fast friends. June always welcomed me into her home and was like another mother to me. I spent many hours in her home. Was always neat running into her at the Courthouse too. When my mother passed away in 2002, my sisters and I visited June in the nursing home. She was very excited to see us. She was a wonderful, loving person who would do anything for you and will be dearly missed.

June Alene Berglund
(June 29, 1923 - November 9, 2010)

June Alene Berglund, 87, died November 9, 2010, Larned Healthcare Center, Larned.

She was born June 29, 1923, in Sanford, the daughter of Harry L.S. and Marie Henrietta Detzen Meckfessel. A lifetime resident of Pawnee County she was a homemaker and worked as a Office Clerk for the Pawnee County Treasurer office for 17 years. She belonged to First Christian Church and Altar Society, Larned.

On August 15, 1948, she married Floyd E. Berglund at Larned.

Survivors include three sons, Harold, Larned, Elden and wife Mary, Eagle Nest, New Mexico and Myron, Pocatello, Idaho, one brother, Hale Meckfessel, Salina, one grandson, 4 step-grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by two brothers, Ralph, and Gale Meckfessel and one sister, Joyce Kerns.

Funeral will be at 2:30 p.m. Friday, November 12, at Morell Funeral Home, Larned, with Pastor Dan Lundgren presiding. Visitation will be from noon until 8 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home. Burial will be in Larned Cemetery, Larned.

Memorials are designated to the First Christian Church, in care of Morell Funeral Home, P.O. Box 124, Larned, Ks. 67550-012.

Hoisington (KS) High School

2010-11-07T19:21:00.002-05:00

Here is an artist's rendition of Hoisington High School from a 1962 graduation announcement.

Great Bend (KS) High School

2010-11-07T17:53:00.004-05:00

While scanning family photos and documents today I ran across a graduation announcement from 1960 that had this artist's rendition of Great Bend High School on it. I had a number of relatives graduate from Great Bend High School so thought I'd share this with anyone else that may have attended and/or graduated from there. Enjoy.

Obituary: Shirley June (Truax) Hoyer

2010-11-03T16:31:00.005-04:00

Shirley J. Hoyer

(February 21, 1934 - October 29, 2010)

of Allegan, went to be with her Savior, Friday, October 29, 2010. Mrs. Hoyer was born February 21, 1934, in Allegan, the daughter of Melvin and Lillian (Miller) Truax. Shirley worked with the Allegan Public Schools for 6 years at the old Jr. High School, and worked for 18 years with the Allegan County Sheriff Dept. retiring in 1994. In her early years she was a drum majorette, state champion in Archery, and loved to watch her kids and grandkids compete in many sporting activities. She attended the Bridge Church. Surviving are her 3 sons, Lon and Jane Hoyer, Bruce and Gloria Hoyer, and Rick and Dawn Hoyer, all of Allegan, 6 grandchildren; Heather and Tim Smith, Brandi, Carissa, Cole, Michelle and Dean Ferris and Rob and Julie Wilson, 6 great grandchildren, Dylan, Robbie, Makayla, Trenton, Lynsey and Brandon, 4 sisters; Maxine and James Austin of OK, Barbara Austin of Plainwell, Donna and Ken Hotchkiss of Allegan, and Betty and Ernie Wolters of Mt. Pleasant, several nieces, nephews and cousins. Friends may meet with the family on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2010, from 11- 1 pm at the Allegan High School Events Center, where a Celebration of Life service will be held at 1 pm. Pastor Roger Bird will officiate. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the Wings Home, Allegan. Arrangements by the Gorden Funeral Residence, Allegan Chapel.

This Is One of My Favorite Pictures

2010-10-10T20:24:00.001-04:00

Age 5

Dewey Dean Haddon (July 20, 1938-September 20, 2010)

2010-09-22T15:59:00.003-04:00

Dewey Dean Haddon, 72, died September 20, 2010 at rural Reno County, Kansas. He was born July 20, 1938 at Great Bend, Kansas, the son of Dewey Clifford and Ethel Viola (Flanders) Haddon. He married Janet Eklund May 27, 1956 at Stafford, Kansas. A lifetime Great Bend resident, Mr. Haddon was a farmer.

Mr. Haddon was a member of Mount Pleasant United Methodist Church, Ellinwood, Kansas.

Survivors include his wife, Janet Haddon, of the home; two sons: Michael Haddon and wife Debbie, Hudson, Kansas; and Mitchell Haddon, Great Bend; one daughter, Michele Churchill and husband Todd, Hays, Kansas; one brother, Loren Don Haddon and wife Maxine, Ellinwood; four grandchildren: Brian Haddon and wife Amanda; Melissa Moreno and husband Mario; Kaylene Schmidt and husband Eric; and Brandon Churchill; and three great-grandchildren, Kamie Haddon, Hayden Schmidt, and Ethan Moreno.

Memorial services will be at 2:00 p.m., Thursday, September 23, 2010 at Bryant Funeral Home. Pastor Wade Russell will officiate. There will be no visitation as cremation has taken place. Memorials are requested to the American Diabetes Association, in care of the funeral home.

Albert George and Nellie Esther (Roberts) Patridge

2010-08-07T22:34:00.005-04:00

I recently went to visit one of my sisters who lives in Ohio. While there we went down to visit with her son who lives in Amelia, Ohio. This was my first visit to his home so I got the grand tour. When we walked into what they called the "Victorian Room" I noticed some really neat old pictures on the dressers. I asked if the people were related and was told that they were pictures he had purchased at an antique store. He loves antiques and collectibles. Out of curiosity I checked the backs of the pictures and sure enough, some of them had names on them. Unfortunately there were some that had no names as well. I proceeded to take photos of all the pictures so I could see if I could find out more about the people in them and see if I could find any living relatives who might be interested in the photos I took. When I got to my other sister's house (she lives in Ohio as well) I started doing some research on the identified photos.

Let me introduce you to Albert George and Nellie Esther (Roberts) Patridge.

Mr. and Mrs. Albert George Patridge
1907

Albert George Patridge was b. 13 Jan 1882 in Grant Co., South Dakota, the son of Albert Lewis and Elizabeth Josephine "Lizzie" (George) Patridge. He married Nellie Esther Roberts, 15 May 1907 in Milbank, Grant, South Dakota. The above photo is of them on their wedding trip. In the 1900 census, Albert was living with his parents in Vernon, Grant, South Dakota. In the 1910 census, he is living with Nellie in Vernon, Grant, South Dakota. By the 1920 census, Albert and Nellie had moved to Milbank, Grant, South Dakota and that's also where they were living in the 1930 census. When Albert filled out his World War I Draft Registration Card on 12 Sep 1918 he indicated that he was a salesman of automobiles and tractors for the Milbank Auto & Supply Co. He had two brothers, Arthur and Irving Theodore and two sisters, Esther and Mary E. Albert died 20 Apr 1964 in Big Stone Co., Minnesota.

Nellie Esther Roberts was born Nov 1888 in Blue Earth Co., Minnesota, the daughter of William H. and Ida E. (Dyer) Roberts. In the 1895 census, she was living with her parents in Little Rock, Morrison, Minnesota. In the 1900 census, she was living with her parents in Latah, Spokane, Washington. That is pretty much all I was able to find out about Nellie.

Albert and Nellie had three children: Alice E., born about 1911 in South Dakota; Dorothy I., born about 1917 in South Dakota; and Glenn William, b. 10 Jul 1923 in South Dakota and died 11 Mar 1999 in Milbank, Grant, South Dakota. Alice married Arthur W. Nelson, 18 Jun 1939 in Milbank, Grant, South Dakota. Glenn William married Dorothy Jane Matt, Aug 1946 in Grant Co., South Dakota. Dorothy was born 8 Mar 1919 and died 16 May 2000 in Milbank, Grant, South Dakota.

Once I found this information on Albert and Nellie I decided to post a message on the Message Boards for the surname Patridge. It wasn't long after I posted my message that I got a message from someone who knew a granddaughter of Albert and Nellie and the person who contacted me was even a first cousin twice removed of Albert's. I have since e-mailed him copies of these photos so that he can share them with Albert and Nellie's granddaughter.

Now if there was just a way to identify the people in the unidentified photos I took!

Cecil "Gene" Smith 1925-2010

2010-07-06T22:22:00.002-04:00

HAYSVILLE — Cecil “Gene” Smith, 84, of Haysville, died May 24 at Harry Hynes Memorial Hospice, Wichita. He was born July 5, 1925, at Olmitz, the son of Ray Ross Smith Sr. and Edna Mae (Becker) Smith. A lifelong resident of Kansas, he was a self-taught television repairman. He was owner/operator of Gene Smith T.V. for 50-plus years.

Mr. Smith was a member of the First United Methodist Church.

He married Elizabeth Lorraine Keened[sic]. She passed away in 1952. He then married Norma Jean Bell on Nov. 5, 1953, in Great Bend. She passed away in 2005.

Survivors include three sons, Larry (Pam) Smith of Russell, Jimmy (Del) Smith of Wichita and Rodney (Sandy) Smith of Haysville; a daughter, Gayla Smith of Wichita; a brother, John Smith of Great Bend; a sister, Carolyn (Bernie) Schulz of Alabama and Arizona; nine grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wives, one son, Donald, four brothers, Leo, Wayne, Ross and Wilmer, and three sisters, Maxine, Delfreda and Shirley.

Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Friday at Charter Funerals, Great Bend, with Elder John Smith as officiant. Interment will be at Great Bend City Cemetery. Visitation will be from 10 to 11 a.m. Friday at Charter Funerals. Memorials may be made to the Harry Hynes Memorial Hospice, Wichita, or Community Christian Church, Great Bend. Funeral arrangements provided by

Charter Funerals*
2115 Washington
Great Bend, KS 67530
620-793-6161
Great Bend (Kan) Tribune, May 26, 2010

Donna M. Wegele (May 1, 1943 - July 5, 2010)

2010-07-06T21:42:00.001-04:00

Donna M. Wegele, 67, died July 5, 2010 at her home, Pratt, Kansas. She was born May 1, 1943 at Great Bend, Kansas, the daughter of Roland John and Maxine Maurine (Smith) Rowley. She married Wilmer A. Wegele May 29, 1965 at Hoisington, Kansas. A Pratt resident for twelve years, Mrs. Wegele grew up in Hoisington. She was a homemaker and had been a cashier at the Pratt Community College cafeteria.

Mrs. Wegele was a member of the Lutheran Church.

Survivors include her husband, Wilmer A. Wegele, of the home; one son, Weldon Wegele, Salina, Kansas; one daughter, Dionne Rudney and husband Alex, Salida, Colorado; two sisters: Marilyn Bowman, Keller, Texas; and JoAnn Guerrero, San Jose, California; one brother, John Rowley, Augusta, Kansas; and three grandchildren: William Wegele, Zane Rudney, and Wyatt Rudney.

Funeral service will be at 2:00 p.m., Thursday, July 8, 2010 at Bryant Funeral Home with the Reverend Garry Dassow officiating. Burial will be in Golden Belt Cemetery. Friends may call from 1:00 to 9:00 p.m., Wednesday, July 7, 2010 with the family receiving friends from 7:00 to 8:00 p.m., and from 9:00 a.m. to service time Thursday, all at Bryant Funeral Home. Memorials are requested to the grandchildren's education fund, in care of the funeral home.

Tombstone Tuesday: J. M. and Nancy E. Smith

2010-06-08T20:54:00.003-04:00

Boy was I excited today when I checked my e-mail and found that my Find A Grave request for my great-great grandparents had been fulfilled. John Mack "Maxie" Smith was b. 26 Feb 1831 in Bowling Green, Warren, Kentucky and d. 13 Jan 1900 in Jerome, Appanoose, Iowa. He m. Nancy Ellen Hickman in 1851. She was b. 4 Feb 1834 in Kentucky and d. 15 Aug 1896 in Jerome, Appanoose, Iowa. They are buried in Jerome Cemetery, Jerome, Appanoose, Iowa. They had nine children: Ellen; John Franklin "Frank"; William Thomas "Tom"; James; Stephen Henry "Henry"; Martha Jane "Mattie"; Mary Cleoria "Ora"; John Martin "Mart"; and Leonard E. Thanks so much to Find A Grave Contributor: rhondabrent for taking this wonderful photo.

A Call Out of The Blue

2010-03-22T21:36:00.004-04:00

I got a phone call out of the blue today after I got home from running errands. It was my first cousin once removed, Allen Lee Roberts. He is the son of Walter Ray and Anna Belle "Annie" (Carmack) Roberts. He was asking me questions about the Roberts family and also telling me lots of stuff about the Roberts and Carmack families. Also told me that he had pictures of my great-grandparents, Benjamin Franklin and Lucy Jane (Allen) Roberts. Boy was I excited. In the end we exchanged snail mail addresses and agreed to share all our information. He was excited when I told him that I had copies of his mother's obituaries and a picture of her tombstone. He had been asking me lots of questions about his mother because he didn't have much on her. Said he had sent off for Walter and Annie's marriage license and I told him I already had it and would be glad to send him a copy. Am really looking forward to seeing what information, pictures, etc. he sends me. Gotta get busy and send some stuff off to him as well. He also told me about the death of two of my cousins (see my previous posts) - Lois Maxine (Roberts) Reed and her son, Lesley Everett Reed. They died within two days of each other, Lois on 16 Mar 2010 and Lesley on 14 Mar 2010. He said that Lois had a trunk full of family information that she wouldn't share with anyone and that her daughter was going to locate the trunk and go through whatever was in it and send him stuff. Hope she follows through. Sure wish I could have recorded our conversation. Allen is 75 and will be turning 76 on 29 May 2010 and lives in Nathrop, Colorado. Between Allen and my cousin Becky Jamison I sure would like to make a trip out to Colorado!!!

Obituary: Lois "Maxine" Reed 9-19-1924 - 3-16-2010

2010-03-22T17:21:00.002-04:00

Died peacefully, with family, in Carmichael, Calif. Maxine was the first born of six children in Barber County, Kansas in 1924 to Anabelle and Walter Roberts. She attended High School in Hazelton, Kansas. It was there that she met Lesley H. Reed, whom she married October 9, 1942 and moved to Portland, Maine, where he served in the military. In 1946 they moved to Maxwell, Calif. to join other family members; Les and Maxine lived most of their 57 years of married life in Maxwell where they owned and operated a small trucking company. Maxine began the service of driving handicapped children from throughout Colusa County to school in Colusa, which developed into a twenty-year career. Maxine was a homemaker and mother to her three children, Lesley "Sonny", Lois and Loretta. Maxine had a cheerful personality and was a kind and loving wife and mother. She reached out to help people. Musically inclined, she played the organ and enjoyed singing as well as dancing. She took great pleasure from embroidering gifts for family and friends, and doted on her dog, Pepper. Maxine was preceded in death by her husband, Lesley H. Reed in 1999, and her son, Lesley E. Reed, of Yreka, California, on March 14, 2010. Maxine leaves to mourn her passing her daughters, Lois Reed of Moscow, Idaho, Loretta Reed of Carmichael, California, daughter-in- law Nova Reed of Yreka, California; sister Dotty Moore of Pratt, Kansas; brother Alan Roberts of Nathrop, Colorado; and granddaughter Leona Ahles of Moscow, Idaho. A double memorial for both Maxine, and her son, Lesley, will be held Saturday, March 27, 2010, 2 pm at the Maxwell Baptist Church, 177 N. California Street, Maxwell, California. A double internment after the memorial will be held at the Maxwell Cemetery. Send Condolences at www.appealdemocrat.com

Obituary: Lesley E. Reed 9-26-1944 - 3-14-2010

2010-03-22T17:15:00.004-04:00

Lesley died peacefully with his loved ones at his side. He was the first born of three children to Lesley H. and Lois Maxine Reed of Maxwell, California. Les married Nova Cobb on Aug 31 1968; they remained in Colusa County where Les drove trucks, a career he genuinely loved. In 1989, Les and Nova moved to Yreka, Calif. to manage the Oak Ridge Mobile Home Park. Les believed he was truly fortunate to find a second wonderful career where he had the opportunity to meet so many great friends and to keep himself busy with projects. Les was a man most would consider "bigger than life" and his gregarious and generous nature were only two of his special qualities. When not working around the park to keep it perfectly manicured and running smoothly or arranging get-togethers or lending a helping hand, he and Nova escaped to numerous great adventures in their camper. Always ready to go fishing, camping, boating, or sightseeing, they made the most of their 42 years of marriage. Lesley's amazing fight with cancer over the last two years made him a hero to those that loved him. He never complained of the pain and instead focused on making the best of what time he and Nova had left together. His concern for Nova was strong even to the end. Les leaves to mourn his passing his cherished wife, Nova Reed of Yreka, Calif., his two sisters, Lois Reed of Moscow, Idaho, and Loretta Reed, of Carmichael, Calif., numerous nieces and nephews, and more friends than anyone could count. A double memorial will be held for both Lesley and his mother, Maxine, who died two days after Les. The service will be held Saturday, March 27, 2010, 2 pm at the Maxwell Baptist Church, 177 N. California Street, Maxwell, California. A double internment after the memorial will be held at the Maxwell Cemetery. Send Condolences at www.appealdemocrat.com

Obituary: Marilyn Jo Becker (Querry) 1948-2010

2010-03-18T13:08:00.009-04:00

NORMAN, Okla. — Marilyn Jo Becker (Querry) died Feb. 24, peacefully at her home surrounded by her family. She fought her battle with sarcoma cancer with an enduring strength granted to her by God. She lost this earthly battle only to claim victory in Jesus. She was 61.

She was born on April 12, 1948, in Guthrie, Okla., the daughter of Kenneth Jay and Gwendolyn Marie Querry. Marilyn attended elementary school in Palco and junior high in Plainville. Her family moved to Great Bend, where she graduated in 1966. In Great Bend, she met her high school sweetheart and on Aug. 9, 1969, she married Robert Eugene Becker, son of Winnis and Evelyn Becker of Great Bend. She graduated from Kansas State University in 1970, with a Bachelor of Science degree in Education. She began her teaching career in Abilene. In 1978, she and Bob moved to Ponca City, Okla., where she taught at Garfield and Liberty elementary schools. She retired from her teaching career in 2003 after 32 years of teaching.

She loved participating in her grandchildren’s activities, as well as creating artistic pieces, taking digital photography, scrapbooking, singing, playing the piano and traveling. She cared for all her school kids and loved teaching with her fellow teachers.

Marilyn had accepted the Lord Jesus Christ as her personal savior. She was committed to participating in church activities. She was dedicated to reading, studying the Bible and sharing the Gospel with others.

She is survived by her husband, of the home; son Michael Becker and his wife Amy (Gorczyca); daughter Jaime Bagg (Becker) and husband Chad; sister Karen Demory and husband Gerald of Bentonville, Ark., sister Kim Sheets and husband Will of Perry, Okla.; six grandchildren, Jonah, Maegan, Canaan, Ethan, Gabriel and Chloe; as well as her nephews and niece, Breen and Brad Haywood, Jay and Brandan Sheets and Maranda Wilson (Sheets). She left one uncle, Ray Gambill, and his children Mark Gambill and Rayma Brandt, and cousin, Janet Calvin. She was preceded in death by her parents; mother-in-law, Evelyn Becker, and brother-in-law Gary Becker.

Funeral services were held Saturday with burial at the Tonkawa IOOF Cemetery in Tonkawa, Okla. Following the interment, a memorial service was held at the Hartford Avenue Church of Christ in Ponca City, Okla. In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the Hope Ranch, 522 N. 14th, Box 233, Ponca City, OK 74601. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.andersonfunerals.com.

Funeral arrangements provided by
Anderson Funeral Home*
505 Thunderbird Road
P.O. Box 337
Tonkawa, OK 74653

Great Bend (Kan.) Tribune, Feb. 28, 2010

Obituary: Greenbury King Strait

2010-03-17T22:12:00.003-04:00

Greenbury King Strait, son of James and Rachel Strait, was born May 21, 1869, at Brownville, Nebraska, and passed away at his home near Coats on March 26, 1948.

In 1904 he was married to Miss Theresa Vogel. To this union three children were born: Marvin, Sylvia and Fay.

His Wife, Theresa, passed away in 1930.

One daughter, Fay, four brothers and four sisters preceeded him in death.

He leaves to mourn his passing one son, Marvin of Medicine Lodge; one daughter, Sylvia, of Coats; one brother, George R. Strait, of Madesta[sic], California; two sisters, Mrs. John McFadden and Mrs. John Bowman, both of Bazine, Kansas, and a host of relatives and friends.

The Pratt (KS) Union, 1 April 1948

Package In The Mail

2010-03-15T21:16:00.007-04:00

I recently requested a copy of an obituary from the Pratt Co. Historical Society for my cousin, Fay Strait, who died 30 May 1941 in Coats, Pratt, Kansas. I was contacted by Marsha Brown, the curator of the Pratt Co. Historical Society Museum and she e-mailed me the brief obituary that was placed in The Pratt Union newspaper dated June 5, 1941. I got a subsequent e-mail from her stating that they had just received more newspapers and that she had found some more obituaries for Fay and wanted to know if I was interested in copies. She also asked me if I had ever seen the short family history that Mrs. Marvin Strait had written for the "Family Heritage Album" for Pratt County that was done in 1976 and would I like a copy of that as well. Of course, I couldn't contain my excitement and wrote back to her saying that I would love a copy of the obituaries and the family history.

When I went to my mailbox today there was a package in it from Marsha. I was so excited I could barely wait till I got into the house. But lo and behold and much to my surprise, there was more in the package than Fay's obituaries and the family history written by Mrs. Marvin Strait.

There was also these two wonderful pictures. The first one is of Theresa Strait and her children Fay and Marvin. The second one is of Mary and Marvin Strait and his sister, Fay. They are absolutely priceless!
But, it didn't stop there. She had also included two obituaries for Theresa Strait (my great grandaunt); an obituary for Greenbury King Strait (my great granduncle) and husband of Theresa (Vogel) Strait; one for Sylvia Strait (their daughter); one for James Marvin Strait; (their son) and one for Mary M. Strait (James Marvin's wife). That was way more than I had asked for!!

I am so thankful for wonderful people like Marsha Brown! I will share what she sent me in future posts.

Tombstone: Jon R. Keller

2010-03-07T16:34:00.003-05:00

Fort Custer National Cemetery
Augusta, Kalamazoo, Michigan

Martha Elizabeth Pearl "Pearl" Bradley and Linzie Sheldon Roberts

2010-03-04T11:32:00.006-05:00

10 January 1906

Gifford, Macon, Missouri

My First Name

2010-03-03T16:16:00.003-05:00

I have been told that I was named after my dad's stillborn sister, Nola Katherine. She was born and died on 19 Jan 1933 in Olmitz, Barton, Kansas. I actually don't know if that story is true or not. I would like to think that I might also have been named after my great-grandmother, Duretta Catherine (Shumaker) Allen. She was born 3 Apr 1846 in Fairfield Co., Ohio and died 6 Jun 1917 in Illinois Bend, Macon, Missouri. The difference is, however, that my name is spelled Kathryn.

Nadine Pearl Roberts

2010-03-02T15:02:00.004-05:00

This is my favorite female ancestor picture. It's a picture of my mother, Nadine Pearl (Roberts) Smith. She was 18 months old at the time. This picture was taken 14 August 1923.

My Favorite Female Ancestor

2010-03-01T16:06:00.003-05:00

I have several female ancestors who are my favorites: Emma Delphenia (Baldwin) Smith, Emma Cornelia (Strait) Becker, Lucy Jane (Allen) Roberts and Janie Ellen (Moore) Bradley Davis. These gals are all my great-grandmothers. Another favorite is my great-great grandmother Duretta Catherine (Shumaker) Allen. But the one female ancestor that perplexes me the most, right now, is my great-great grandmother Permelia Rebecca (White) Roberts.

Why does she perplex me? Because it's difficult to find information on her. What I do know about her is that she was born 27 Jan 1825 somewhere in Ohio or possibly New York. She married Daniel Sheldon Roberts, 27 Sep 1846 in Athens Co., Ohio. That is confirmed by the fact that I was able to find their marriage license. Supposedly she died sometime in 1867, somewhere in Illinois and is buried somewhere in Illinois. There is also a theory that Permelia died 7 Jan 1893 in Adams Co., Illinois. If this is true then she and Daniel would have had to have gotten a divorce, because Daniel married his second wife, Almyra Camelia Snow, 3 Nov 1867 in Knox Co., Missouri.

I found Permelia and Daniel in the 1850 census for Carthage Twp., Athens, Ohio and the 1860 census for Jackson, Anderson, Kansas.

I found information on Permelia's birth in bible records received from Clara Belle (Roberts) Beason and Elizabeth "Lizzie" (Roberts) Parry. I have not been able to find any information on her death or burial. Also, have not been able to identify who her parents were.

Permelia and Daniel were the parents of ten children: James E. W., George Washington, Erastus Edward "Rass", Benjamin Franklin, William Henry, Florence Addie, Anna Amanda "Mandy", Sarah Jane, Daniel Lewis and Mary Ettie. There is some question as to whether Sarah, Daniel and Mary are actually their children even though the bible records list them. If they are and Permelia died sometime in 1867, then she would have had to have died between 13 May 1867 when Mary Ettie was born and 3 Nov 1867 when Daniel married his second wife. It could be that that was why Daniel re-married so quickly, because he had so many small children in his household. The 1870 census for Houston Twp., Adams, Illinois does not list Sarah, Daniel or Mary in the household of Daniel and Almyra Roberts. So, either the three children died before the 1870 census or Daniel and Permelia in fact were divorced and she took the three children with her. I have not been able to find Permelia in the 1870 census or any other census records since 1860.

At this point in time I am stymied on where to go next to find out more about my perplexing great-great grandmother, Permelia.

Jon Ramon Keller: 8-18-1938 to 2-10-2010

2010-02-11T22:44:00.004-05:00

Jon Ramon Keller, 71, passed away Feb 10, 2010 at Oaklawn Hospital after a long battle with cancer.

Born 18 Aug 1938 in Nevada, Missouri, he was the son of William Everett and Sara Glenn (Glick) Keller.

On 13 Feb 1960, he was married to Gloria Gwen Wheeler in McLennan Co., Texas. They were divorced in 1965. To this union were born two children, Brenda Ann and Audrey Jane. On 17 Jun 1969, he married Meryle Lynn Bigham in Wichita Co., Texas and they were divorced in 1970. They had no children. On 5 Dec 1970, he married Marie Charity Boyd in Larned, Kansas. They were divorced in 1975. To this union one child was born, Tanya Mae. On 20 Aug 1977, he married Kathryn Faye Smith in Larned, Kansas. To this union one child was born, Kristofer Sean.

Jon joined the Air Force in 1956 and spent 13 years in the Air Force Band, playing the trumpet, cymbals and oboe. In 1972, he joined the Kansas Army National Guard, Larned, Kansas as a medic. In 1981, he transferred to the Kansas Air National Guard, Wichita, Kansas as a medic. In 1990, he transferred to the Michigan Air National Guard in Battle Creek, Michigan and was in charge of the medical clinic. He retired from the military in 1993. He had been a Marshall resident since 1994.

He graduated from Barton Co. Community College, Great Bend, Kansas, in 1979 with an Associate's Degree in Nursing and has been a registered nurse in Kansas and Michigan since 1979. In 1993, he received his Bachelor of Arts degree in Administration from Kansas Newman College, Wichita, Kansas.

As a registered nurse he worked in a number of fields including, occupational nursing, geriatric nursing, psychiatric nursing, home health care, medical-surgical nursing, call center triage, and he worked casual with a number of nursing agencies, include Battle Creek Health Systems and Oaklawn Hospital. He retired from the Veterans Administration in 2005.

He was a member of Zion Lutheran Church, Marshall, Michigan and was the church treasurer for a little over a year.

His favorite past times included golf, fishing, reading (mostly mystery novels), and working crossword puzzles. He loved to tell stories about his family. He also loved to tell jokes and always seemed to have one to tell to anyone that would listen.

He was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his wife, Kathryn "Kate", Marshall, Michigan; three daughters, Brenda (Darrell) Hamilton, Garden City, Kansas; Audrey (Larry) Thornburg, California; and Tanya Smith, Kansas; one son, Kristofer (LeeAnna) Keller, Battle Creek, Michigan; one brother, Melvin Joe, Pawnee Rock, Kansas and an uncle, Gary Don (Sharon) Glick, San Jose, California. Also surviving are 10 grandchildren, two step-grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

A wake will be conducted at Craig K. Kempf Funeral Home, 723 Old US 27 North, Marshall, Michigan on Sunday, February 14, 2010 from 1-3 p.m. and 5-7 p.m. Funeral services will be conducted at Zion Lutheran Church, 135 W. Green St., Marshall, Michigan, Monday, February 15, 2010 at 1:30 p.m. with Pastor Roger James officiating. Military graveside services will be conducted at Fort Custer National Cemetery, Battle Creek, Michigan on Tuesday, February 16, 2010 at 11:30.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made through the funeral home to the Zion Lutheran Church or the Cancer Care Center at Battle Creek Health Systems.

Check out my "Tribute to My Husband, Jon" slideshow in the side panel.

Wordless Wednesday: Karen and Kay Smith

2010-02-03T13:39:00.001-05:00

Wordless Wednesday: My Grandparents - Edna May (Becker) (16) and Ray Ross Smith (24)

2010-01-27T12:08:00.002-05:00

Happy 101 Award

2010-01-21T13:41:00.004-05:00

Boy was I surprised today when I found out I was awarded by the Happy 101 Award, thanks to Leslie Ann Ballou at Ancestors Live Here. Now to see if I can come up with ten things that make me happy (in no particular order).

1. Watching my gardens grow and bloom.
2. Sitting in my sun room watching the birds visit the feeder and my gardens.
3. Visits from my sisters, Kay and Karyle and their families, who live in Ohio.
4. Working on my genealogy.
5. Road trips, near or far.
6. Visits from my granddaughter, Marisa, who lives in Illinois.
7. Good news from my husband's oncologist (just doesn't happen often enough).
8. Reading a good book.
9. The smell of lilacs and roses.
10. Watching hummingbirds visit my feeder and my gardens.

Wordless Wednesday: Mary Cleoria "Ora" (Smith) Stegall and her twins, Ada and Vada

2010-01-13T20:46:00.001-05:00

Wordless Wednesday: My Great-Great Grandfather, Daniel Sheldon Roberts

2009-11-25T10:01:00.002-05:00

Wordless Wednesday: My Husband, Jon Keller

2009-11-18T11:49:00.002-05:00

A Salute To Some of My Veterans!

2009-11-11T10:01:00.004-05:00

Happy 15th Birthday, Marisa!!

2009-11-04T20:23:00.013-05:00

Wordless Wednesday: Josie Phillips

2009-11-04T13:19:00.002-05:00

Wordless Wednesday: My Great-Grandmother, Janie Ellen (Moore) Bradley Davis

2009-10-28T13:05:00.001-04:00

Tombstone Tuesday

2009-10-27T11:57:00.006-04:00

I got this really cool stone from a member of Find A Grave who fulfilled a photo request for me. She told me that the marker appears to be petrified wood.

The marker is for George Baylor Allen, my third cousin four times removed. He was born 15 Jun 1844 in Kentucky, the son of John Polk and Georgeann (Baylor) Allen. He died 7 Dec 1910 in Israel Township, Preble Co., Ohio, from morphine poisoning, and is buried in Hopewell Cemetery, Morning Sun, Preble Co., Ohio. He married Anna M. Robinson in 1871 and they had five children: Mayme, George Baylor Jr., Florence, Theodore and Carter. He was a Civil War veteran.

Happy 73rd Birthday, Aunt Carolyn!

2009-10-21T20:21:00.004-04:00

Carolyn Jean Smith
21 October 1936
Great Bend, Barton, Kansas

Gary Lee Becker (27 May 1943-8 Oct 2009)

2009-10-15T15:16:00.009-04:00

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. - Gary Becker was born in Great Bend on March 27, 1943, to Winnis and Evelyn Becker. He married Ruth Kruckenberg in 1963. He was a graduate of Kansas State University and received his MBA from Texas Christian University. Gary served in the Air Force for 24 years, and for the past 10 years worked as a contract negotiator for IBM. After a long, courageous battle with pancreatic cancer, he went to be with the Lord on Oct. 8.

Gary was a member of First Presbyterian Church, where he served as a deacon and on the Recreational Ministries Committee. His favorite activities included playing racquetball, hiking, running, cheering for K-State, and helping family and friends.

Gary leaves behind his wife, Ruth, sons Jeff (Ronda) and Mark, daughter Courtney Stevens (Tim), his father Winnis, brother Bob (Marilyn), and grandchildren Emily, Ryan and Jenna Becker, and Paige Stevens. He will be greatly missed and fondly remembered. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to either First Presbyterian Church or Gary's PanCan Memorial Page at www.firstgiving.com/garybecker.

A memorial service was held Oct. 12 at First Presbyterian Church, 219 E. Bijou, Colorado Springs. Please join us in honoring Gary by visiting our memorial at www.mem.com.

Great Bend (Kan.) Tribune
13 Oct 2009

Wordless Wednesday: Matilda Ellen "Tilda" (Bradley) Hall Hays Roberts

2009-10-14T10:03:00.001-04:00

A Tale of Two Sisters Who Married Two Brothers

2009-09-28T20:29:00.005-04:00

This is a tale of two sisters:

One is my Grandaunt, Matilda Ellen "Tilda" Bradley, who also happens to be my third cousin twice removed and my fourth cousin twice removed. Matilda was b. 1 Nov 1887 in Dennison, Lincoln, Texas, the daughter of William Franklin and Janie Ellen (Moore) Bradley. She d. 18 Nov 1973 in Kirksville, Adair, Missouri. Her first marriage was to Elmer Clarence Hall, 27 Jan 1907 in Adair Co., Missouri. Elmer and Matilda had six children: Clarence Almo; an infant male who was b. and d. 3 Jun 1909; Lula Mae; Janie Pauline; Charles and Elmerene Clara Elizabeth. Her second marriage was to Dillon S. Hays, 3 May 1917 in Kirksville, Adair, Missouri. Dillon and Matilda had three children: Euretha Florence, Rhoda Matilda, and Isabelle Maxine. Her last marriage was to Walter Ray Roberts, 6 Oct 1951 in Fort Smith, Sebastian, Arkansas.

The other is my Grandmother, Martha Elizabeth Pearl "Pearl" Bradley, who also happens to be my third cousin twice removed and my fourth cousin twice removed. Pearl was b. 25 Jan 1890 in Goldsberry, Macon, Missouri, the daughter of William Franklin and Janie Ellen (Moore) Bradley. She d. 14 Dec 1971 in Larned, Pawnee, Kansas. She m. Linzie Sheldon Roberts, 10 Jan 1906 in Gifford, Macon, Missouri. Pearl and Linzie had six children: Lora Vaughn, Otis Aden, Arthur Franklin, Elbert Earl, Raymond Edward and Nadine Pearl.

Who married two brothers:
One is my Granduncle, Walter Ray Roberts who was b. 17 Jan 1890 in La Crosse, Macon, Missouri, the son of Benjamin Franklin and Lucy Jane (Allen) Roberts. He d. 11 Sep 1962 in Wichita, Sedgwick, Kansas. His first marriage was to Annabelle "Annie" Carmack, 2 Aug 1920 in Medicine Lodge, Barber, Kansas. Walter and Annie had seven children: Gaynell "Midge", Lois Maxine, William Ray "Bill", Benjamin Thomas "Bennie" Sr., Allen Lee "Sug", Deloris Aldiene "Dotty" and Lonny Dell. Walter and Matilda had no children.

The other is my Grandfather, Linzie Sheldon Roberts who was b. 3 Feb 1885 in Richland Twp., Macon, Missouri, the son of Benjamin Franklin and Lucy Jane (Allen) Roberts. He d. 10 Oct 1964 in Larned, Pawnee, Kansas.

Wordless Wednesday: Walter Ray Roberts, World War I

2009-09-23T15:40:00.001-04:00

Going to Meet New Cousins

2009-09-17T21:03:00.003-04:00

Excited because tomorrow Jon and I are going to the Allegan District Library in Allegan, Michigan to visit with and meet some new Truax cousins. Jon and I have met Gayle Stevens before. She and her husband came to Applebee's in Marshall awhile back and we ate dinner and sat and chatted about the Truax family. Sadly, Gayle lost her husband a month or so ago. Danny and Rozann Osborn are new Truax cousins I hooked up with through the Internet and this will be the first time I've met them (although not sure if Danny is going to be there or not). So looking forward to this. Will be my first chance to try out the RootsMagic To Go feature as well. Hope to learn lots from these new cousins of mine.

Wordless Wednesday: William Henry Roberts

2009-09-16T17:49:00.003-04:00

Treasure Chest Thursday: Postcard Collection

2009-09-10T16:16:00.004-04:00

Petticoat Lane (11th Street)
Looking East From Main Street,
Kansas City, MO

In this canyon of modern skyscrapers are shown at the right the Bryant Building with its modernistic tower. The gothic tower on the left enhances the Telephone Building. The foreground shows Waldheim Bldg. n the left and Harzfeld's at the right.

Tombstone Tuesday

2009-09-01T16:34:00.002-04:00

This is what's left of the Strait Cemetery located in Darke Co., Ohio.

Wordless Wednesday

2009-08-26T09:51:00.002-04:00

Tombstone Tuesday

2009-08-11T10:04:00.006-04:00

This is the tombstone of my great-grandmother Janie Ellen (Moore) Bradley Davis. She was b. 1 Oct 1858 in Macon Co., Missouri, the daughter of William Taylor Barry and Martha Elizabeth (Miller) Moore. She d. 28 Jun 1944 in Lebanon, Laclede Co., Missouri and is buried in Lebanon City Cemetery. She was first married to William Franklin Bradley (my great-grandfather) on 20 Apr 1876 in Macon Co., Missouri. They had nine children: Mary Annie, Infant Male, Lillie Francis, Clara Gertrude "Gertie", William Everett "Willie", Thomas Elbert Sr., Matilda Ellen "Tilda", Henry Edgar Earl (Twin) and Martha Elizabeth Pearl "Pearl" (Twin). Her second marriage was to Hanover Tinsley Davis, 29 Dec 1891 in Groom, Gray Co., Texas. They had five children: Priscilla (Twin), Aquilla (Twin), Joseph Tinsley, Cora Florence and Henry Clay.

Wordless Wednesday: Flora Ellen (Feemster) and Leslie Frederick Becker

2009-08-05T14:06:00.001-04:00

Tombstone Tuesday

2009-08-04T14:50:00.004-04:00

This is the tombstone for my great-grandparents Benjamin Franklin and Lucy Jane (Allen) Roberts. It is located in Rosehill Cemetery in Hazelton, Barber Co., Kansas. Benjamin Franklin was b. 12 Jun 1853 in Peoria, Adams Co., Illinois, the son of Daniel Sheldon and Permelia Rebecca (White) Roberts. He d. 17 Aug 1935 in Hazelton, Barber Co., Kansas. He m. Lucy Jane Allen 17 Feb 1884 in La Crosse, Macon Co., Missouri. Lucy Jane was b. 3 Feb 1866 in Newburg, Macon Co., Missouri, the daughter of Robert Linzie and Duretta Catherine "Cass" (Shumaker) Allen. She d. 22 Apr 1946 in Hardtner, Barber Co., Kansas. They had eight children: Linzie Sheldon, Duretta Florence "Flo", William Edward "Ed", an infant daughter who died shortly after birth, Walter Ray, Lillie May, Clarence Allen Sr., and Benjamin Albert "Bennie".

Happy 68th Birthday, Uncle John!

2009-07-23T16:15:00.004-04:00

John Franklyn Smith
23 Jul 1941
Great Bend, Barton Co., Kansas

Happy 55th Wedding Anniversary!

2009-07-18T12:29:00.003-04:00

Carolyn (Jean) Smith and Bernard "Bernie" Schulz
18 Jul 1954
Bushton Methodist Church
Bushton, Rice Co., Kansas

18 July 2004

Tombstone Tuesday

2009-07-07T19:10:00.003-04:00

This is the tombstone for my great-grandparents Johann (John) Joseph "Joe" and Emma Cornelia (Strait) Becker. It is located in Woodlawn Cemetery (now Great Bend Cemetery) in Great Bend, Barton Co., Kansas. Johann Joseph was b. 18 Dec 1860 in Bischofsdhron, Trier, Rheinland-Pfalz, Germany, the son of Johann "John" and Anna Maria (Martini) Becker. He d. 15 Sep 1944 in Great Bend, Barton Co., Kansas. He m. Emma Cornelia Strait 26 Aug 1844 in Hodgeman, Ness Co., Kansas. Emma Cornelia was b. 10 Sep 1867 in Springfield, Sangamon Co., Illinois, the daughter of James S. and Rachel (King) Strait. She d. 3 Dec 1920 in Eureka Twp., Barton Co., Kansas. They had nine children: Joseph Frederick "Fred", William, Nannie, Mabel Mary, Mathilda "Tillie", Albert Leo "Bert", Lewis Lewelling "Lew", Esta Leona, and Edna May.

Happy 40th Wedding Anniversary!

2009-07-05T16:52:00.012-04:00

Jim Allen and Karyle Gaye (Smith) McMannama
5 Jul 1969
United Methodist Church
Larned, Pawnee Co., Kansas

Giving Away The Bride

The Wedding Party

Prom 1965

Happy 84th Birthday, Uncle Eugene!

2009-07-05T13:13:00.007-04:00

Cecil Eugene "Eugene" Smith
5 Jul 1925
Olmitz, Barton Co., Kansas

John Franklyn Smith and Cecil Eugene Smith (2009)

Wordless Wednesday: Harley Cecil, Verna Mae & Martha Jane Stegall

2009-06-24T21:41:00.003-04:00

Tombstone Tuesday

2009-06-23T16:12:00.003-04:00

This is the tombstone for my grandparents Linzie Sheldon and Martha Elizabeth Pearl "Pearl" (Bradley) Roberts. It is located in Larned Cemetery, Larned, Pawnee Co., Kansas. Linzie Sheldon was b. 3 Feb 1885 in Richland Twp., Macon Co., Missouri, the son of Benjamin Franklin and Lucy Jane (Allen) Roberts. He d. 10 Oct 1964 in Larned, Pawnee Co., Kansas. He m. Martha Elizabeth Pearl Bradley 10 Jan 1906 in Gifford, Macon Co., Missouri. Pearl was b. 25 Jan 1890 in Goldsberry, Macon Co., Missouri, the daughter of William Franklin and Janie Ellen (Moore) Bradley. She d. 14 Dec 1971 in Larned, Pawnee Co., Kansas. Linzie and Pearl had six children: Lora Vaughn, Otis Aden, Arthur Franklin, Elbert Earl, Raymond Edward and Nadine Pearl.

Wordless Wednesday: Naomi Cecil Smith

2009-06-17T15:51:00.002-04:00

Tombstone Tuesday

2009-06-16T19:13:00.004-04:00

This is the tombstone for my grandparents Ray Ross and Edna May (Becker) Smith, Sr. It is located in Great Bend Cemetery, Great Bend, Barton Co., Kansas. Ray Ross was b. 28 Sep 1890 in Boyd, Barton Co., Kansas, the son of John Franklin "Frank" and Emma Delphenia (Baldwin) Smith. He d. 17 Dec 1973 in Great Bend, Barton Co., Kansas. He m. Edna May Becker 23 Dec 1914 in Great Bend, Barton Co., Kansas. Edna May was b. 8 Jun 1898 in Great Bend, Barton Co., Kansas, the daughter of Johann (John) Joseph "Joe" and Emma Cornelia (Strait) Becker. She d. 12 Oct 1985 in Hoisington, Barton Co., Kansas. They had 11 children: Leo Undine, Maurine Maxine, Ellis Wayne, Veva Delfreda, Ray Ross "Smitty", Jr., Wilmer LaVerne, Cecil Eugene, Nola Katherine, Shirley Ann, Carolyn Jean and John Franklyn.

Wordless Wednesday: Edward Lester Smith and Edna Mae Smith

2009-06-10T21:23:00.003-04:00

Tombstone Tuesday

2009-06-09T11:19:00.004-04:00

This is the tombstone for my great-grandparents John Franklin and Emma Delphenia (Baldwin) Smith. It is located in Walnut Valley Cemetery, Barton Co., Kansas. The cemetery is located not far from the small town of Heizer which is not too far from Great Bend. John Franklin "Frank" was b. 9 Feb 1852 in Abingdon, Knox Co., Illinois, the son of John Mack "Maxie" and Nancy Ellen (Hickman) Smith. He d. 16 Nov 1923 in Great Bend, Barton Co., Kansas. He m. Emma Delphenia Baldwin, 19 Jan 1873 in Seymour, Wayne Co., Iowa. Emma was b. 26 Mar 1855 in Seymour, Wayne Co., Iowa, the daughter of William Alonzo and Clarissa Rebecca (Cook) Baldwin, Sr. She d. 20 Oct 1947 in Great Bend, Barton Co., Kansas. They had nine children: Etta Delphenia "Del", William Orvis "Will", Viola Anastasia, "Ola" Alvie Adolphus "Al", Franklin Phosent "Frank", Clara Ellen, John Orton "Ort", Ray Ross Sr., and Edna Mae.

Wordless Wednesday: Alonzo Del Ray "Lon" and Charlotte Mae "Lottie" (Weltmer) Baldwin

2009-06-03T21:16:00.004-04:00

I believe this is their wedding photo.

Wordless Wednesday: Alvie A. & Frank P. Smith

2009-05-27T20:22:00.002-04:00

My Grand Uncles.

A Tribute to My Aunt Delfreda

2009-05-26T20:25:00.010-04:00

Veva Delfreda Bateman

(December 17, 1919 - May 24, 2009)

Veva Delfreda Smith

Veva Delfreda (Smith) and Clyde Fred Bateman

Back, l to r: John Franklin and Cecil Eugene

Front, l to r: Shirley, Maxine, Delfreda and Carolyn

The Girls: Delfreda, Maxine, Shirley & Carolyn

Delfreda, Carolyn, Maxine and Shirley

Delfreda and Carolyn

Chuck, Calvin and Delfreda Bateman and Veva and Paul Young

L to r: Carolyn, Eugene, Delfreda, John and Maxine

Veva Delfreda Bateman

2009-05-26T20:21:00.002-04:00

Veva Delfreda Bateman, 89, died May 24, 2009, at Mennonite Manor, South Hutchinson.

She was born December 17, 1919, in Barton, Kansas the daughter of Ray and Edna Becker Smith.

She graduated from Great Bend High School in 1938. A longtime resident of South Hutchinson she retired as a secretary from Master Machines.

She was a member of South Hutchinson Christian Church.

On May 19, 1940, she married Kenneth McNees in St. John. He died September 19, 1945. On April 4, 1952, she married Clyde Fred Bateman in St. John, Kansas. He died June 3, 1983.

Other survivors include: a daughter, Veva Young and husband Paul of Burleson, Texas; two sons, Calvin Bateman and wife Nancy of Wichita, and Charles Bateman and wife Betty of South Hutchinson; two brothers, John Smith, and Eugene Smith; a sister, Carolyn Shultz; six grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by a son, Kenneth McNees, a daughter, Janice Alumbaugh, and two granddaughters, Tammy Lee Moore and Larissa Davis.

Funeral service will be at 10 a.m. Friday at South Hutchinson Christian Church with Minister Jeff Arnold presiding. Visitation will be from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Thursday at Elliott Mortuary, Hutchinson. Burial will be in Eastside Cemetery.

Memorials may be sent to Mennonite Manor, or South Hutchinson Christian Church, both in care of the mortuary.

Visit www.elliottmortuary.com to leave a personal message for the family.

www.elliottmortuary.com, 26 May 2009

Wordless Wednesday

2009-05-13T07:04:00.003-04:00

Orland Louis Shafer

The Genealogists Prayer

2009-05-10T13:39:00.002-04:00

Genealogy is my pasttime, I shall not stray,
It maketh me lie down and examine half-buried tombstones;
It leadeth me into still courthouses.
It restoreth my ancestral knowledge,
It leadeth me into the paths of census records and ship passenger lists for my surnames' sake.
Yea, though I wade through the shadows of research libraries
And microfilm readers, I shall fear no discouragement,
for a strong urge is with me.
Curiosity and motivation, they comfort me.
It demandeth preparation of storage space;
For the acquisition of countless documents.
It annointest my head with burning, midnight oil,
My family group sheets runneth over.
Surely, birth, marriage, and death record dates shall follow me
All the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the
House of the Family History Center forever.

-author unknown

Wordless Wednesday

2009-05-06T13:27:00.003-04:00

Wordless Wednesday

2009-04-29T17:02:00.000-04:00

Jeanne D. Cowles

2009-04-21T13:38:00.002-04:00

Jetmore – Jeanne D. Cowles, 81, died April 12, 2009, at home in Medicine Lodge.

She was born June 14, 1927, at Jetmore, the daughter of James Sinclair and Ona Mae Neeley Cole. A longtime area resident, she was a homemaker.

She belonged to the United Methodist Church, Ladies Red Hat Society and the G.A.B. Club, all of Jetmore.

On April 6, 1946, she married Kenneth E. Cowles at Dodge City. He died June 16, 2004.

Survivors include: two daughters, Bonnie Bailey, Medicine Lodge and Kathy Hixon, Tahlequah, Oklahoma; five Grandchildren and eight Great Grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by a sister, Vivian Lonnberg.

Funeral will be at 10:30 a.m. Thursday at the United Methodist Church, Jetmore, with Rev. Marvin Ewertt presiding. Friends may call from 9a.m. to 8p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday at Beckwith Funeral Home, Jetmore. Burial will be in the Fairmount Cemetery, Jetmore.

Memorials may be sent to the Hospice Care of Kansas, in care of the funeral home.

Loretta Catherine McFadden

2009-04-07T07:41:00.005-04:00

Larned – Loretta C. McFadden, 77, died April 4, 2009 at St. Joseph Memorial Hospital, Larned.

She was born January 3, 1932 at Burdett, Kansas the daughter of Earl Glen and Ethel May McLeod Webster. A resident since 1956 moving from Leadville, Colorado, she was a owner and Beautician at Bob’s Barber and Beauty Shop, Larned.

She was a member of the First Baptist Church, Larned Country Club, Ladies Golf Association, all of Larned and the D.A.R. On August 31, 1952, she married Robert Lawrence McFadden at Rozel. He died February 2, 2007.

Survivors include: four sons, Robert E., Peck , Kansas, David W., Larned, W. Craig, Austin, Texas, D. Kevin, Austin, Texas; a brother, Robert Hadley Webster, Euless, Texas; a sister, Theora May Sooby, Loveland, Colorado; five grandchildren, Robert J., Jamie, Justin, Jared McFadden, and Heaven Leland; and three great-grandchildren, Skylar, Aydenn Leland, and Dawson McFadden.

She was preceded in death by her husband, two brothers Glenn Henry Webster and William Ira Webster.

Funeral will be at 2 p.m., Wednesday at the Beckwith Mortuary Chapel, Larned with Rev. John Hester presiding. Friends may call from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday and 9 a.m. until service time Wednesday at the mortuary. Burial will be in the Larned Cemetery, Larned.

Memorials may be sent to the First Baptist Church, Rozel, Larned Country Club or the American Lung Association in care of Beckwith Mortuary, Inc., P.O. Box 477, Larned, KS 67550. Condolences may be left at www.beckwithmortuary.com

And Now, A Tale of Two Edna's

2009-03-31T19:43:00.007-04:00

Now this story can be a little confusing, so try and keep up.

Edna May Becker (my grandmother) was born 8 Jun 1898 in Great Bend, Barton Co., Kansas. She was the daughter of Johann (John) Joseph "Joe" and Emma Cornelia (Strait) Becker. She was the youngest of nine children born to Joe and Emma Becker. On 23 Dec 1914, she married Ray Ross Smith in Great Bend, Barton Co., Kansas. They had 11 children: Leo Undine, Maurine Maxine, Ellis Wayne, Veva Delfreda, Ray Ross, Jr. (my dad), Wilmer LaVerne, Cecil Eugene, Nola Katherine, Shirley Ann, Carolyn Jean and John Franklyn.

Edna Mae Smith (my Aunt) was born 6 Nov 1892 in Hoisington, Barton Co., Kansas. She was the daughter of John Franklin and Emma Delphenia (Baldwin) Smith. She was the youngest of nine children born to John and Emma Smith. On 17 Sep 1913, she married Albert Leo Becker in Great Bend, Barton Co., Kansas. They had one child, Winnis Albert.

So, what's so confusing about all this?

Well, Edna May Becker married Edna Mae Smith's brother, Ray Ross and Edna Mae Smith married Edna May Becker's brother, Albert Leo. Got all that?

Did you notice the other weird thing about all this? Edna May Becker and Edna Mae Smith were both the youngest of nine children. Check out my story "A Tale of Two Emma's".

A Tale of Two Emma's

2009-03-30T13:34:00.007-04:00

Emma Delphenia Baldwin (my great-grandmother) was born 26 Mar 1855 in Seymour, Wayne Co., Iowa. She was the daughter of William Alonzo and Clarissa Rebecca (Cook) Baldwin, Sr. Emma grew up in Seymour. On 19 Jan 1873, she married John Franklin Smith in Appanoose Co., Iowa. They had nine children: Etta Delphenia, William Orvis, Viola Anastasia, Alvie Adolphus, Franklin Phosent, Clara Ellen, John Orton, Ray Ross (my grandfather), and Edna Mae. In 1879, the family moved to Kansas where they homesteaded northwest of Great Bend, Barton Co., Kansas. In 1919, they moved into Great Bend. She became a member of the Christian Church in Hoisington, Barton Co., Kansas. John Franklin died 16 Nov 1923 in Great Bend, Barton Co., Kansas and was buried in Walnut Valley Cemetery, Barton Co., Kansas. Emma died 20 Oct 1947 in Great Bend, Barton Co., Kansas and is buried in Walnut Valley Cemetery alongside her husband, John Franklin.

Emma Cornelia Strait (my great-grandmother) was born 10 Sep 1867 in Springfield, Sangamon Co., Illinois. She was the daughter of James S. and Rachel (King) Strait. She came to Kansas in 1878 with her parents. She was a member of the Baptist church. On 26 Aug 1884, she married Johann (John) Joseph "Joe" Becker in Hodgeman, Ness Co., Kansas. They had nine children: Joseph Frederick, William, Nannie, Mable Mary, Mathilda, Albert Leo, Lewis Lewelling, Esta Leona and Edna May (my grandmother). Emma died 3 Dec 1920 in Eureka Twp., Barton Co., Kansas and was buried in Woodlawn Cemetery (now Great Bend Cemetery). Joe d. 15 Sep 1944 in Great Bend, Barton Co., Kansas and is buried alongside his wife, Emma.

Notice anything weird about this information (besides the fact that they are both named Emma)? How about the fact that they each had nine children.

Happy Birthday!

2009-03-26T10:27:00.001-04:00

Happy Birthday to my great-grandmother,
Emma Delphenia (Baldwin) Smith,
b. 26 Mar 1855.

Madness Monday

2009-03-23T14:25:00.003-04:00

The one that's got me currently pulling my hair out and gnashing my teeth are my great-great-great grandparents, Samuel S. and Mary "Polly" (Conkright) Roberts.

Can't seem to find a lot on either one of them and have never been able to figure out who their parents are or where they actually came from.

Research I have found so far has Samuel S. Roberts being born abt 1790 in either New York, New Jersey, Connecticut or Ireland. Boy is that a wide variety of places. I'm tending to lean toward the New York location but have nothing that really supports that notion. I have his death as sometime before 1850 in Athens Co., Ohio, possibly in the town of Carthage. Do not know where he is buried so have not even been able to look for a tombstone. I found him in the 1840 census for Carthage, Athens Co., Ohio, but he does not appear in any subsequent census records so figure that he died before the 1850 census was enumerated.

I have Mary "Polly" Conkright born abt 1794 in either Ireland, New York or New Jersey. Again I'm leaning towards New York, because that's what the census records say. She apparently died in Colorado abt 1880 because she doesn't appear in the 1880 census. I also don't know where she is buried so have not been able to look for her tombstone either.

The one fact that I do know for sure is that Samuel S. Roberts and Mary "Polly" Conkright were married 25 Jun 1820 in Bath Twp., Steuben Co., New York. That's only because I found several newspapers articles regarding their marriage and found their marriage listed in a vital records listing (oddly enough they were listed in the Vital Records of Rhode Island, 1636-1850).

Evidently the circumstances behind their marriage was such a novelty that articles about it appeared in the Boston Patriot & Daily Mercantile Advertiser, 19 July 1820; The American Paper, 21 Jul 1820; the Essex Register, 15 July 1820; the Manufacturers and Farmers Journal, Providence and Pawtucket Advertiser; the New Hampshire Sentinel; the New York Gazette and General Advertiser; the Otsego Herald; The Freemans Journal; The National Advocate; and The New York-Columbian.

The story goes: "In Bath, Steuben county, 20th June, Mr. Samuel Roberts to Miss Polly Conkright after a most unceasing, long, tedious, pleasant, interesting courtship of five minutes, - neither of the parties were before acquainted but by accident they met in a store, where the bargain was thus soon concluded."

Have not, however, been able to find a marriage license for them. I did a Random Acts of Genealogical Kindness inquiry of an individual who had a number of Steuben County history books but she was unable to find anything on Samuel or Polly.

So, here I am hitting my head against that proverbial brick wall!

Tombstone Tuesday

2009-03-17T06:27:00.003-04:00

My great-great grandparents, James S. and Rachel (King) Strait.

Riverside Cemetery

Ness Co., Kansas

Grandparent's Tea

2009-03-07T15:41:00.013-05:00

On 27 February 2009, Jon and I attended the Eighth Grade Class Grandparent's Tea at Reed-Custer Middle School in Braidwood, Illinois. Our granddaughter, Marisa, is a member of the class. There are 164 students in their eighth grade graduating class and the commons area was packed with grandparents and eighth graders. They had a very nice program. We got to spend some time attending two of Marisa' classes - Panther Time and Math. Both classes were abbreviated sessons because of the festivities - even more so because Marisa had to leave early for choir practice. We got to meet some of Marisa's teachers and friends.

After the classes, they had refreshments in the commons area and the jazz band played a couple of songs and then the chorus took the stage and sang a couple of songs. Marisa and her friend Haley were the featured duet soloists on the first song, so we got to hear her sing. Marisa told us afterwards that she was very nervous because of all the activities going on. She sure didn't seem nervous when she was up on the stage singing (however, she did tend to play with the bottom of her shirt most of the time). She had a lot of trouble sitting still and was up and running around alot so we didn't have much opportunity to visit with her.

Then, before we knew it, it was all over and the students were rushing to catch the school bus. We are very glad we were able to attend as this was a once in a lifetime event for Marisa. She will graduate from the eighth grade in May and move on to high school. She is just growing up way too fast for us.

When A Day Isn't Just Another Day

2009-02-28T15:45:00.003-05:00

What's so important about a day? A day is just another day until something significant happens (good or bad) and then that day becomes one that we never forget, like 9/11, the birth of a child, the death of a loved one, the day you got married, the day you retire. But other things can also happen that make a date become one you never forget.

Today is one of those days. Four years ago, on this date, I got the news that I had cervical cancer. So now, 28 Feb 2005 is a day I will always remember. Saint Patrick's Day, 2005, is the day I had surgery to confirm my diagnosis - a day I will always remember. 2 May 2005, the day before my 51st birthday, I had a radical hysterectomy done - a day I will always remember.

I was in total shock when I was told that I had cancer. I was just getting ready to retire from the military and had hardly been sick a day my whole military career (over 22 years). Then this happens. What a way to spend my terminal leave....

I, like so many others, wondered "Why, me?", when I got the diagnosis. I didn't cry, I didn't scream, I just asked the doctor, "So what do we do now?" As you can tell by the dates listed above, I didn't waste any time getting things done. I wanted to get it done and over with so I could move on with the rest of my life and try to enjoy some of that terminal leave I was on. The hardest part was telling my friends, family and co-workers.

After recuperating from my surgery, I underwent six weeks of radiation therapy and chemo therapy as a preventative measure. Today, I continue to be in remission. I can't say "Cancer Free" because no one is ever "Cancer Free." On the day I was diagnosed I became a "Survivor".

For years I had been involved with the American Cancer Society's Relay for Life, never knowing that someday I would become a survivor and that the Relay would become even more important to me. I was a Relay team member, Relay team captain and even a Relay committee member. I still have all my Relay T-Shirts. I spent hours walking the track and raising money - one year I was even there the whole 24 hours. My husband and I have participated in Relay every year for the last 12 years or so, I was even able to participate in the Relay in 2005. I created a spot on a wall of our house to display all of our Relay for Life Survivor medals, not only to remind us that we are "Survivors" but to remind us of those we have lost to cancer - friends, co-workers, and family.

My husband's mother died of lung cancer in 1979, my mother died in 2002 and supposedly had undiagnosed stomach cancer (with unknown origin), my Aunt Shirley died of pancreatic cancer in 2004 and in 2001 my husband was diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma on his left tonsil. There have been so many people we have known who have died from cancer, that I've lost count.

My husband started out with radiation therapy on his neck. In Apr 2002 he had a radical neck dissection because the radiation didn't completely eliminate the tumor. By late 2002 the cancer had spread to the lymph glands in his neck. He had another radical neck dissection in Jan 2003, followed by more radiation therapy. He had a total of 65 radiation treatments. Things were looking good until Jun 2007, when he found out that the cancer had metastized to his lung, aortic arch and right chest wall. The bad news is - it's not curable. The good news is - it's treatable. So shortly after his new diagnosis, he started chemotherapy treatments. And, he continues to get chemotherapy every Tuesday. He will continue chemotherapy until he passes away. Of course, we are hoping that will be a very, very long time from now. He tolerates the chemotherapy pretty well, but it does take a lot out of him. The day of treatment and for a couple of days after he does a lot of sleeping. He doesn't have a lot of energy to do things, so he will be a very unhappy camper this spring and summer when he doesn't feel up to golfing. He loves to golf! His last CT scan showed that the tumor around his aortic arch had shrunk .7 cm and the one in his chest was stable. The one in his lung has been gone (or at least not big enough to show up on a CT scan) since Jun of last year.

Doing mine and my husband's genealogy has identified a lot of family members who died of cancer, so it does kinda make you wonder if it's in the "genes".

How Weird Is This?

2009-02-23T13:04:00.004-05:00

Okay, I was going through more family photos again to scan and add to my Ancestry website when I came across this picture. The gal on the left is Lois (Johnson) Roberts, who was married to Jack Franklin Roberts, my first cousin once removed. The gal on the right - you would probably never guess in a million years!! That's my mother-in-law, Sara Keller. Evidently, Lois and Sara were best of friends. Weird that there was a connection between our families even back then. As a matter of fact, my husband loves the smell of leather and he used to go into my Grandpa Roberts' shoe shop just for the smell.

Wow, What A Surprise!

2009-02-20T09:56:00.004-05:00

I was surprised and thrilled to find out this morning that Gini at http://ginisology.blogspot.com/ had awarded me the Kreative Blogger Award. I have to admit that I was also shocked, since I only just started this blog in January. Thank you, Gini! I would also like to congratulate Gini on being a 9 year cancer survivor.

I would also like to thank my cousin, Becky (http://beckysgraceandglory.blogspot.com/), for encouraging me to start a blog. Without her support I probably would have never done it.

I am still learning about this blogging thing and hope someday to make my site look alot fancier than it does now. I guess I need a Blogging 101 course....

Gini, you made my day and again thank you very much.

We Are The Chosen

2009-02-15T14:53:00.003-05:00

I recently had a fellow genealogist and family member share this with me and thought I'd share it with all of you.

We Are The Chosen

In each family there is one who seems called to find the ancestors. To put flesh on their bones and make them live again, to tell the family story and to feel that somehow they know and approve.

Doing genealogy is not a cold gathering of facts but, instead, breathing life into all who have gone before. We are the storytellers of the tribe. All tribes have one. We have been called, as it were, by our genes. Those who have gone before cry out to us, "Tell our story!" So, we do.

In finding them, we somehow find ourselves. How many graves have I stood before now and cried? I have lost count. How many times have I told the ancestors, "You have a wonderful family; you would be proud of us." How many times have I walked up to a grave and felt somehow there was love there for me? I cannot say.

It goes beyond just documenting facts. It goes to who am I and why I do the things I do. It goes to seeing a cemetery about to be lost forever to weeds and indifference and saying, "I can't let this happen." The bones here are bones of my bone and flesh of my flesh. It goes to doing something about it. It goes to pride in what our ancestors were able to accomplish, how they contributed to what we are today. It goes to respecting their hardships and losses, their never giving in or giving up, their resoluteness to go on and build a life for their family.

It goes to deep pride that the fathers fought and some died to make and keep us a Nation. It goes to a deep and immense understanding that they were doing it for us. It is of equal pride and love that our mothers struggled to give us birth. Without them we could not exist, and so we love each one, as far back as we can reach. That we might be born who we are. That we might remember them. So we do.

With love and caring and scribing each fact of their existence, because we are they and they are the sum of who we are. So, as a scribe called, I tell the story of my family. It is up to that one called in the next generation to answer the call and take my place in the long line of family storytellers.

That is why I do my family genealogy, and that is what calls those young and old to step up and restore the memory or greet those whom we had never known before.

2003 posting by: Lloyd Ray Timmons, Sr.

...and if sometimes we are lucky, we will be the one at the Christmas dinner who is asked questions and who can tell the stories and identify the pictures. And if we are really lucky - we can find another younger soul in the family to take up the cause.

Any Society that would give up liberty for a little security, will deserve neither and lose both.

Benjamin Franklin 1759

Grandpa Roberts' Shoe Shop

2009-02-12T12:49:00.000-05:00

A Cool Discovery

2009-02-06T23:50:00.002-05:00

Every Tuesday, my husband and I head to the Cancer Care Center so that he can get his chemotreatment. We can be there anywhere from three to seven hours, depending on which Tuesday it is and what all treatments he may end up needing to get. He is currently receiving Erbitux every Tuesday and then every third Tuesday he also gets Carboplatin. Both Erbitux and Carboplatin deplete the levels of magnesium in the body so sometimes he needs to have a magnesium bolus.

So, every Tuesday I pack up my laptop computer and grab some genealogy stuff to work on while we are at the Cancer Care Center. It helps me pass the time.

This last Tuesday, one of the items I took with me was a follow-up e-mail I had received from a gentleman who had contacted me through Ancestry's Connection Service about a relative of mine, Grace Evelyn Fox. He is working on his son-in-law's genealogy and had sent me a pedigree chart which started with his son-in-law's mother, Nancy Carol Fair. I started inputting what information he had on the pedgree chart into my Roberts-Allen Family website so that I could determine what information I had that I could share with him and what information he had that I didn't.

As I worked my way back through the generations on his pedigree chart I made a really cool discovery. I got to the names Beverly C. Rattliff and Mahala J. Mitchell and I went "hmm, those names sure look familiar." So I went into my Bradley-Moore Family website and sure enough, there was Beverly C. Rattliff and Mahala J. Mitchell. So it turns out that this gentleman's son-in-law is not only related to me on my Roberts-Allen side of the family, but he's also related to me on my Bradley-Moore side of the family. I hadn't realized the connection until I got his pedigree chart. How cool is that?

Harness Maker

2009-02-02T15:49:00.002-05:00

In my Grandpa Roberts' early years, he was a harness maker and had his own harness shop. This is a picture of him in his shop.

Fond Memories

2009-01-30T20:19:00.003-05:00

While scanning photos to add to my Ancestry website today, I came across this picture of my Grandma Roberts in her kitchen. I have fond memories of this kitchen. The one that sticks out most are the times that my Grandpa Roberts and I would sit at the kitchen table with a jar of peanut butter and spoons and eat the peanut butter right out of the jar.

Welcome to My Blog!

2009-01-28T22:40:00.000-05:00

My cousin, Becky, has been been suggesting that I create a blog so here it is.

So for my first post, let me tell you how I got bit by the "Genealogy Bug". When I was in high school (a long time ago) I took a biology class (can't remember if it was my junior or senior year). The teacher gave us an assignment to find out why it was that we had the physical characteristics that we had. So, I went home and enlisted the assistance of my mother. We started by making note of the eye and hair color of my grandparents, great-grandparents, aunts, uncles, etc., along with whether or not they were right or left handed. Then we started writing letters to other relatives to find out information about them.

After I turned in my biology assignment (don't remember what grade I got) I lost interest in the whole thing. But, my mother was "hooked". For the next 20 some years she did research on some of our family lines. At one point, she even became "The Strait Family Historian."

She used to drag me and my dad around to cemeteries and I hated it. I think dad just tolerated it. She had binders and papers all over the house, stuffed in binders on bookshelves and in file drawers. She had notes written on little bits of paper and backs of envelopes. Don't know how she kept track of anything.

Then, shortly before my father passed away in 1992, both my mom and dad ended up in a nursing home. Even this didn't stop my mother from doing some research, although all her information was still at the house. After my father passed away, we had to put the house and its contents up for sale because mom was not going to be able to return home. My sisters and our husbands gathered at the house for a week to clean up as much as we could and take what we wanted to keep before they auctioned off the house and its contents.

I figured that since I was the one that got mom started on this adventure I should be the one that took over her genealogical research (and there was a ton of it). Unfortunately, there was so much that we couldn't get it all in our small car to take back home to Michigan with us. So, we left most of it with my husband's oldest daughter who lives in Garden City. About a year or so later we went back (we had a bigger car then) and picked up what we had left behind. Once I got it home I started going through it and have been "hooked" ever since. What I fear is that since we had to clean out my parent's house so quickly that some of her research may have gotten thrown in the dumpster.

My husband and I both retired in 2005 and we have made several genealogy related trips and have attended several genealogical conferences. Oh, and by the way, I LOVE going to cemeteries now!!! I even volunteer to take photos for Find A Grave! Who woulda thought.....