ROXIE WINGO
Roxie Wingo, 86, of Shawnee, Okla., died Dec. 24 [2001] at a nursing home there. She was born a twin Aug. 22, 1915, to George E. Rapp and Elizabeth (Winston) Rapp.
She graduated from Meeker High School in Meeker, Okla., in 1934. She married Kelly Wingo on Oct. 11, 1935. He preceded her in death on Nov. 28, 2001. The couple owned and operated a country service station and grocery store north of Shawnee. They opened the store in 1937 and retired after 40 years. She was a 50-year member of a home demonstration club and the First Christian Church of Meeker. She loved to sew and do needlework. In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents; daughters JoRene Sherburne and Lou Ann Wingo; her twin brother; and four sisters. She is survived by son and daughter-in-law George and Sunnye Wingo of Moore, Okla.; daughter and son-in-law Donaleta "Doni" and Bill Stewart of Douglas; son-in-law Lyle Sherburne of Pryor, Okla.; brother Harry Rapp of Meeker; sister Berna Dean Anderson of Liberty, Texas; eight grandchildren, including Jack Stewart of Douglas, Kelly Stewart of Dallas and Cody Stewart of Weiser, Idaho; and 18 great-grandchildren. Services were held Dec. 28 in Shawnee at the Roesch-Walker Funeral Chapel. Interment was in Fairview Cemetery in Shawnee.

BARBARA ANN "BOBBI" WERNER
Funeral services for Barbara Ann "Bobbi" Werner, 73, were held Jan. 4 [2002] at Christ Episcopal Church in Douglas with Rev. Marion Canterbury officiating. Interment was at Douglas Park Cemetery. Mrs. Werner died Dec. 31 at her home in Douglas following a courageous battle with cancer. She was born Jan. 7, 1928, to James M. and Lois A. (Blenkarn) Leman in Douglas. She was raised on the family ranch at Upper LaPrele. In 1945 she graduated from Douglas High School and went on to University of Denver where she got her degree as a medical technician in 1949. She worked at Natrona County Hospital as a technician until early 1950. On April 11, 1950, she married John P. Werner in Douglas and moved to their ranch north of Douglas, where they raised their three children. In addition to her duties as a ranch wife and mother, Mrs. Werner was active in Christ Episcopal Church, American Cancer Society and CowBelles. She served as president of Converse County CowBelles and Wyoming CowBelles. Mrs. Werner won her first bout with cancer in 1972. In 1978 she began a new career as an active and vocal volunteer for the American Cancer Society. As part of her cancer awareness campaign, she started several service programs in the community, such as Reach to Recovery, CanSurmount and the Cancer Support Group. Her volunteer work extended well past Douglas with national and state board memberships. Her efforts were honored with numerous awards including the Saint George Award in 1999. The award is given to a small number of individuals across the nation each year to recognize significant volunteer leadership service for the American Cancer Society. Mrs. Werner is survived by sons Jim Werner and wife Lorrie and Mike Werner and wife Nita, all of Douglas; daughter Elaine Moore and husband Frank of Douglas; sister Dorothy Taylor and husband Keith of Douglas; brother Jim Leman and wife Lois of Kennewick, Wash.; 12 grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents. Her husband John died on May 6, 1983. Serving as pallbearers were her six grandsons, Frank "Todd" Moore, Keith Moore, David Moore, Kurtis Hillier, Brandon Werner and John "JJ" Werner. Honorary pallbearers were her many friends and family. Memorials to American Cancer Society, Christ Episcopal Church or Mary Barber Gilbert Memorial in care of Converse Funeral Chapel, P.O. Box X, Douglas, would be appreciated by the family. Converse Funeral Chapel of Douglas was in charge of the arrangements.

LELIA B. ATHENS
Graveside services and interment for Lelia B. Athens, 90, were held Jan. 8 [2002] at Douglas Park Cemetery with Pastor Frank Wiederrecht officiating. Ms. Athens died Jan. 4 at Michael Manor in Douglas. She was born May 3, 1911, in Creighton, Neb., to Gilbert and Addie (Stults) Tarrant. Lelia moved with her family at an early age to Wyoming, and they homesteaded north of Douglas in the Walker Creek area. She was reared and educated at country schools. She married Raymond Hinckley, then John Anderson. Both marriages ended in divorce. She worked at Skelly Big Wheel for many years as a waitress. She spent her retirement years in Douglas and resided at Michael Manor at the time of her death. She is survived by her adopted daughter, Linda Weber of Buffalo; daughter-in-law Wanda Schirmer of Douglas; five grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; and five great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her son Jimmy Hinckley, two sisters and two brothers. Converse Funeral Chapel was in charge of arrangements.

ROBERT G. LONGFELLOW
Robert G. Longfellow, 70, of Torrington died Dec. 26 [2001] at Regional West Medical Center in Scottsbluff, Neb. Military services will be at 2 p.m. Jan. 11 at Black Hills National Cemetery in Sturgis, S.D. Cremation has taken place. Mr. Longfellow was born May 28, 1931, in Chicago to George and Hazel (Fabricius) Longfellow. The family moved to California, and he entered the U.S. Air Force in 1951. He served in the Vietnam Conflict and was awarded the Bronze Star. After retiring from the military he worked for the U.S. Postal Service until retiring in 1991 as a supervisor. Mr. Longfellow was a member of the Masonic Lodge in Mesa, Ariz., and Douglas and served as Worshipful Master in 1980. He married Karen Saxer on Feb. 27, 1953, and while in the Air Force traveled extensively. He moved to Torrington in 1996. Mr. Longfellow is survived by his wife Karen of Torrington; daughter Lori and son-in-law Ross Archie of Torrington; grandchildren Cassidy and Kip Archie of Torrington; sister Lois Pierce of Tucson, Ariz.; and numerous nieces and nephews. Memorials to Shriner's Crippled Children's Hospital, Virginia Street and Fairfax, Salt Lake City, Utah, would be appreciated.

PENNY E. BURLEY
Funeral services for Penny E. Burley, 64, were held Jan. 3 [2002] at Converse Funeral Chapel in Douglas with Rev. Merrill R. Lanker (retired) officiating. Inurnment will take place at Douglas Park Cemetery at a later date. Mrs. Burley died peacefully Dec. 31 at her home in Douglas. She was born May 9, 1937, in Casper to F. Dale and Virginia Anne (Witz) Edwards. She was reared and educated in Casper and graduated from Natrona County High School in 1955. She then attended Casper College. On April 3, 1958, she married her high school sweetheart, Thomas A. Burley, in Casper. Mrs. Burley was first and foremost a mother and homemaker, but also held secretarial positions in Casper and Douglas. At the time of her death she was a deputy Clerk of District Court for Converse County Eighth Judicial District. She loved being around her family and friends, traveling and spending time in the mountains south of Douglas near Esterbrook. Mrs. Burley is survived by her husband of 43 years, Tom, of Douglas; daughter Cynthia Hogan and her family of Douglas; son Jason Burley and his family of Windsor, Calif.; sister Prudence Schmidt and her family of Glendale, Ariz., and Casper; brother Miles Edwards and his family of Ithaca, N.Y.; five grandchildren; two nephews; a niece; and many friends. She was preceded in death by her parents. Memorials to Converse County Cancer Fund in care of Tim Tillard, P.O. Box 58, Douglas, would be appreciated by the family. Converse Funeral Chapel was in charge of arrangements.

ESTHER VIOLA BARTOS
Services for Esther Viola Bartos, 85, of Lusk were held Nov. 23 [2002] at the Cicmanec-Pier Funeral Home in Lusk with Pastor Tom Strock officiating. Interment followed at the Lusk Cemetery. Mrs. Bartos passed away Nov. 19 at Memorial Hospital of Converse County. She was born Nov. 14, 1917, at Muskrat Canyon south of Manville. She was the youngest of five children born to George and Rena Alexander. She attended various rural schools and graduated from Manville High School in 1934. On April 21, 1934, she married Floyd Bartos in Hot Springs, S.D. They raised three daughters and a son. They lived in Lost Springs for three years and then moved to Keeline in 1937. In 1940, they purchased the George Nelson place and lived there all of their married life. Mrs. Bartos moved to Lusk in 1988 following her husband's death. She loved her life in the country and made a wonderful home for her family and all who visited. She was an excellent cook and was the cook at Keeline School from 1950 until the school closed. She was a great seamstress and made each of her children and grandchildren quilts. She enjoyed the outdoors and walked as much as she could all her life. Mrs. Bartos was a member of the VFW Auxiliary and a charter member of the 5280 Club and was recently honored as a 60-year member of that club. She was a faithful member of the Church of Christ and was involved in the Manville Alumni Association. She is survived by daughters Gwen Longbone and husband Chief of Strasburg, Colo., Verla Etchemendy and husband Prosper of Lost Springs, and Sheryl Jugler and husband Gene of Rock Springs; grandchildren Tami Mikelson and Lester Longbone of Strasburg, Shanale Phipps of Modesto, Calif., Michelle Zimmerman of Harrison, Neb., Mike Etchemendy of Victor, Idaho, Gregg Jugler of Idaho Falls, Idaho, Lyn Jugler of Douglas and Lacee Wadsworth of Rock Springs; great-grandchildren Kyra, Brooke and Kelsey Proulx, Ryan and James Ahrenholtz, Rachel and Nicole Etchemendy, Mackenzie, Tristan, Kirsten, Collin and Andrew Jugler and Alexandra, Abigal and Fletcher Wadsworth; great-great-grandchildren Bryce and Rylee Matthews; brother Alvin Alexander of Torrington; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends. She was preceded in death by her husband Floyd in 1988; son Gary in 1968; grandchild Jeffry Jugler; a great-grandson; her parents; and three brothers, Leo, Floyd and Oscar. A memorial has been established in her name for the proposed Lusk hospital project.

DEBORAH DEE ALBERTS
Funeral services for Deborah Dee Alberts, 45, were held Nov. 22 [2002] at the Congregational United Church of Christ in Douglas, with Rev. Martin Strom officiating. Private family inurnment was at Douglas Park Cemetery. Ms. Alberts, a lifelong Douglas resident, died Nov. 19, 2002, at Wyoming Medical Center in Casper. She was born Nov. 25, 1956, in Douglas to Henry Eugene "Hank" and Betty Lou (Tiedt) Alberts. She was raised and educated in Douglas. Her working career included many years at Memorial Hospital of Converse County and most recently with the U.S. Forest Service and Thunder Basin Grazing Association. She was an avid animal lover, and will be missed greatly by those animals. She was preceded in death by her father Hank Alberts on Dec. 4, 1999. She is survived by her mother Betty Lou Alberts of Douglas and brother Dale Alberts of Rhinelander, Wis. Serving as honorary pallbearers will be her family and all her many friends. Memorials to Friends of the Animals, P.O. Box 463, Douglas, would be appreciated by the family. Converse Funeral Chapel of Douglas was in charge of the arrangements.

AGNES DOROTHY HENDRICKS HIGGINS
Services for Agnes Dorothy Hendricks Higgins, 87, will be held Nov. 30 [2002] at Our Lady of the Assumption Church in Ventura, Calif. Mrs. Higgins died Nov. 20 in Ventura. She was born April 18, 1915. She grew up with four sisters on their parents' farm in Fulda, Minn. On Oct. 17, 1938, she married Fred Higgins of Casper. They spent the first years of their married life in Casper, and then lived in Arkansas, Illinois and Colorado before settling in Ventura in 1955. The couple raised seven children, Mary Lee, Michael, Kathleen, Thomas, Laura, Andrew and Margaret. In her memoirs, written when she turned 80, Mrs. Higgins wrote, "At the top of the list of my accomplishments is raising my wonderful children . .. . I am also thankful that I had 48 years as a wife." Once her children were in school, Mrs. Higgins began a career with the Ventura County Superintendent of Schools office, retiring in 1977 after 13 years. After retirement, she and her husband spent a year camping and traveling throughout the country. They spent the final six years of their married life in Fred's hometown of Douglas. After Mr. Higgins' death, she returned to Southern California in 1987 to be near her children and grandchildren. In addition to spending time with her family, Mrs. Higgins enjoyed reading and taking long walks. She was a life-long Catholic, and walked to and from daily mass well into her 80s. She instilled in her children a love of the "Three B's," babies, books and beauty of nature. She will be remembered lovingly by those who had the good fortune to know her. She was preceded in death by her husband Fred in 1986; son Tom in 1995; and daughter Mary Lee in 2001. She is survived by her children and their spouses, Mike and Ellen Higgins, Kathleen Nigh, Laura and Jim Krall, Andy and Maricela Higgins, Molly and Bill LaChance and daughter-in-law Phyllis Higgins; 14 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; sisters Ellen Hofmann and husband Charles of Janesville, Minn., and Rita Coale of Houston, Texas; sister-in-law Mary Arthur of Casper and Faye Higgins of Midland, Texas; and cousin Cordell Goode of Pomona, Calif. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Alzheimer's Association.

MINA JEAN (HEINRICH) BANKES
Funeral services for Mina Jean (Hienrich) Bankes were June 1 at Converse Funeral Chapel with Rev. Martin Strom of Congregational United Church of Christ officiating. She died May 28 at her home in Douglas. Mrs. Bankes was born on Oct. 12, 1951, in Crawford, Neb., to Theodore and Thelma (Crile) Nichols. She was reared and educated in Chadron and Kimball. In 1968, she moved with her family to Douglas, where she met and married Bernard C. Shaw. After his death in 1972, she married Donald Hinckley in 1978. They divorced in 1987. Mrs. Bankes worked at the LaBonte Inn, where she met Lonnie Bankes. They married, and after they divorced she remained single. During the last few years of her life she loved and lived with Ron Clark. Mrs. Bankes was a kind and loving person and was always helping others. She enjoyed fishing, camping and spending time with friends and family. She liked to watch television or have coffee at the Plains with friends. She was an extraordinary mother and friend to many. Mrs. Bankes is survived by her children, Jaqueline Garnica and husband, Bob Shaw and wife, and Tavonia Shaw, all of Douglas, and Don Shaw of Casper; sister Marceen Nichols of Chadron; brother Theodore "Butch" Nicholas and wife of Sheridan; stepson Tyrell Clark of Sheridan; daughter-in-law Nancy Shaw of Miles City, Mont.; sister-in-law Jackie Knight of Douglas; grandchildren Sara, Sierra, Sarina, Kris, Brian, Jaynie, Stormi, Blaize, Damian, Pamela and Samantha; and numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents; grandparents; husbands Bernard Shaw and Lonnie Bankes; son Larry Joe Shaw; sisters Linda Hamlin and Deborah Ellen Nichols; brothers Calvin Nichols, Joseph Nichols and Lawrence Hienrich; and grandson Kristopher Garnica. Honorary pallbearers were Bob Shaw, Don Shaw, Tyrell Clark, Ron Clark, Theodore Nicholas and Adam Tindell. Memorials to the charity of the donor's choice would be appreciated by the family. A luncheon at the Plains Dance Hall followed services. Converse Funeral Chapel was in charge of the arrangements.

MIKE LYKINS
Funeral services for Mike Lykins, 27, of Casper were held June 4 at Glenrock Cemetery. He died May 29 at Wyoming Medical Center in Casper. Mr. Lykins was born on July 4, 1974, in Springfield, Ohio, to James L. Lykins and Mary A. Day. He attended schools in Glenrock and has lived in the Glenrock and Casper areas for the majority of his life. Mr. Lykins worked various jobs and had a passion for the outdoors. He spent his time fishing, camping and being with his three girls, often reading to them. He liked animals and spending time with his dog, J.R. Mr. Lykins is survived by his mother, Mary Clyde of Douglas; daughters Kendale, Kaitlin and Kaylee of Casper; sister Angie Bastida of Worland; brother Jim Lykins of Casper; numerous aunts and uncles in Ohio; grandmothers Betty Day of Ohio and Laura May Lykins of Laytham, Ohio; two nieces; one nephew; and several cousins. He was preceded in death by his father, James Lykins; grandfathers Andrew Day and Harold Lykins; and brother Joseph Lykins. Memorials can be made to Blue Envelope Health Fund, P.O. Box 2177, Casper 82602. Arrangements were made by Memorial Chapel Funeral Home and Crematory ofCasper.

TERRY LEE RAINEY
Funeral services for lifetime Glenrock resident Terry Lee Rainey, 48, will be conducted at 2 p.m. June 5 at the Glenrock Middle School auditorium. Fr. Tom Johnson of St. Mark's Episcopal Church of Casper will officiate. Interment will follow at the Glenrock cemetery. Mr. Rainey died May 31 in his home following a sudden heart attack. He was born Nov. 25, 1953, at Natrona County hospital to Robert L. and Betty L. Rainey. He graduated from Glenrock High School in 1972 and continued his mechanical education at Wyo Tech in Laramie. He later returned to Glenrock and was employed by the Glenrock Garage and Pronghorn Drilling. On Aug. 19, 1978, he married Ann Stewart in Glenrock at the Community Baptist Church. For eight years he was employed at Bear Creek Uranium as an operator, then advanced into supervision. In 1986 he began his employment at Powder River Coal Company as a heavy equipment operator and was soon promoted to a supervising position, later advancing to production manager. His interests included family, friends, hunting, fishing and sports. He was involved with his children's education and athletics, as well as professional sports, He was a real Broncos fan. He is survived by his wife Ann, daughter Tasha and son Reggie, all of Glenrock; parents Bob and Betty Rainey of Casper; sister and brother-in-law Rhonda and Steve Hockaday of Glenrock; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, friends and loved ones. Mr. Rainey was preceded in death by his grandparents and sister-in-law. Memorials may be made to the Glenrock Recreation Center, Box 1884, Glenrock 82637 as per the family's request.

JOHN TRAVIS ROY
A celebration of the life of John Travis Roy was held Feb. 11 at Wright Town Hall. He left this life on Feb. 7 at his home, surrounded by his family. His journey began July 12, 1969, in Douglas. He was the son of Arthur and Rhonda Roy of Douglas and Rick and Echo Roy-Klaproth of Shoshoni. In 1991, Travis was united in marriage with Ticy Lynn Hughes of Guernsey, the daughter of Doc and Thede Hughes of Riverton. Travis and Ticy had two sons, Courtland Shane, 10, and Stormy Sky, 7. After graduating from South Dakota School of Mines, Travis and Ticy made their home in Wright where Travis joined the Powder River Coal staff as safety supervisor and safety training coordinator. He was also a volunteer firefighter and certified emergency medical technician. He was an avid outdoorsman and enjoyed hunting, fishing, golfing, boating, playing chess, riding four-wheelers, rodeo and spending time with friends. His greatest passion in life was being a father, husband and family man, and he graciously accepted cancer as part of his life s journey. He is survived by his parents; sister Amanda Roy and niece Rayne of Casper; brother Tye and wife Shelly Roy and their children, Hunter and Aaden, of Laurel, Mont.; brother Sean and wife Jennifer Hopkins and their sons Justin and Josh of Mitchell, Neb.; step-siblings of the family home, Patrick, Andrew and Ashley Morgan; brother-in-law Starr and wife Dana Hughes and their children Dallas, Steel and Livie of Douglas; and a long list of friends and extended family. At the family s request, no public viewing was held. At a later date, Travis remains will be placed at the family cabin which he helped build in the mountains he so loved, south of Douglas. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in his honor to Northeast Wyoming Hospice, P.O. Box 3259, Gillette, 82717, or Wright Volunteer Fire Department, PO Box 81, Wright, 82732. Converse Funeral Chapel of Douglas handled arrangements.

REX E. GRASS
Funeral services for Rex E. Grass, 49, will be held at 2 p.m. Feb. 12 at Converse Funeral Chapel in Douglas, with Pastor Roy Phillips of Douglas Baptist Church officiating. Interment will be Feb. 13 at Rest Haven Memorial Gardens in Fort Collins. Mr. Grass died Feb. 7 at Wyoming Medical Center in Casper, of injuries received in an automobile accident south of Glendo. He was born May 11, 1953, in Denver to Samuel P. and Jeanette (Kreig) Grass. During his younger years he lived in Denver, Loveland, Colo., and Fort Collins, graduating from Poudre High School in Fort Collins in 1971. On Jan. 30, 1971, he married Debra A. Niesent in Fort Collins. During his career he was a welder in Hanna for 16 years and in Douglas during the last 10 years. He worked for Powder River Coal as a welder mechanic. Mr. Grass was a member of the Masonic Lodge, Shrine Temple and Douglas Trap Club. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, trap shooting and his favorite dog, Clyde. He is survived by his wife Debbie of Douglas; children Kenny Grass and Brenda Rodriguez, both of Fort Collins; grandsons Trevor and Trey Grass of Fort Collins; and step-grandchildren Cody and Jaynae Rodriguez of Fort Collins. He was preceded in death by his parents. Memorials to the American Cancer Society, PO Box 1207, Casper, 82602, would be appreciated by the family. Converse Funeral Chapel of Douglas is in charge of arrangements. Family and friends may call at the funeral home from 1-2 p.m. Feb. 12. Services for Donald K. Halstead, 76, of Castle Rock, Colo., were held Feb. 10 at Fort Logan National Cemetery in Denver. Donald K. Halstead Services for Donald K. Halstead, 76, of Castle Rock, Colo., were held Feb. 10 at Fort Logan National Cemetery in Denver. He died Feb. 5 at the Brookside Inn at Castle Rock. Mr. Halstead was born Nov. 23, 1926, in Harrisburg, Neb., to Merton Eugene and Margaret Louise (Tjardes) Halstead. He served in the Army. On May 30, 1947, he married Marjorie Lou Imes at St. Frances, Kan. Mr. Halstead retired after 30 years of service as a manager at Safeway. He and his wife owned and operated the Thompson Jewelry Store in Douglas. He enjoyed hunting, golf and the outdoors, but especially loved time spent with his family, children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren Mr. Halstead moved to Castle Rock in 1994 after 25 years in Douglas. He is survived by his wife Marjorie of Castle Rock; daughters Lynn Schmidt and husband Gene of Castle Rock and Joni Gresham and husband Lee of Alpine; son Bryan Halstead of Castle Rock; daughter-in-law Kim Halstead of Maysville, Ky; seven grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by son Eugene Bruce Halstead and brothers Bill, LeRoy, Dale and Eldon Halstead. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Don Halstead Memorial Fund, in care of First Bank of Castle Rock, 120 S. Wilcox Street, Castle Rock, Colo., 80104. Donald K. HalsteadRex E. Grass

JENNIE 'FREDA' ROBINSON
Funeral services for Jennie 'Freda' Robinson, 89, will be held at 10 a.m. April 10 at the First Baptist Church in Douglas with Pastor Frank Wiederrecht officiating. Interment will be in the Douglas Park Cemetery. Mrs. Robinson died April 7 at Michael Manor in Douglas. She was born Jan. 17, 1914, in Hyannis, Neb., the daughter of Fred and Lola (Gedney) Roediger. She was reared and educated in Glendo, graduating valedictorian in 1932 at Glendo High School. She was married to Loyd William Nance on Sept. 3, 1932, in Hot Springs, S.D. They lived in the Shawnee area working at the Platte Valley Ranch. They moved to Douglas, and Freda worked at the seed house and Cormiers Trading Post. Lloyd died Dec. 14, 1942, and Freda and their two boys continued living in Douglas. She married James Harvey Robinson Aug. 27, 1945, in Casper. They resided in the Douglas area, working at the Hildebrand Ranch. They moved into Douglas, where she enjoyed doing china painting, flowers, gardening, cooking, baking and taking care of other people. She became a resident of the McComb Retirement Center Aug. 31, 2002, and then moved to Michael Manor March 19, 2003. She was a member of the First Baptist Church, teaching Sunday School and holding many positions in the church; Farm Bureau; a Cub Scout and Girl Scout leader; and the Search and Rescue Girls, a prayer group. She was a lifetime member of the Wyoming Pioneer Association. She is survived by three children, Fred Nance of Glendo, Jess Nance of Sheridan and Lynda Taylor of Douglas; two sisters, Margaret Meyer of Douglas and Elizabeth Carson of Casper; eight grandchildren; and was loved by her great grandchildren and great-great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents; her first husband, Lloyd; her second husband, Jim, on July 7, 1997; two sisters, Ruth Speyer and Edna Langston; and brother, Robert Roediger. Serving as pallbearers will be Kevin Taylor, Jeff Taylor, Paul Taylor, Jan Nance, Gary Nance, Justin Nance, Bill Morvee and Steve Werth. Serving as honorary pallbearers will be all of her family and her beloved friends. A memorial to the First Baptist Church Building Fund and the Youth Fund or to the choice of the donor would be appreciated by the family. The Gorman Funeral Home-Converse Chapel is in charge of the arrangements. Family and friends may call at the funeral home from 10 a.m.-7 p.m. April 9.

WESLEY FRANCES REED
Graveside services and interment for Wesley Frances Reed, 80, were held April 7 at Douglas Park Cemetery with Pastor Carl Steinle officiating. Samuel Mares American Legion Post #8 conducted military graveside rites. Mr. Reed had a long illness with Alzheimer s and Parkinson s diseases. He died April 2 at his Douglas home. He was born June 20, 1922, in Artesian, S.D., to William T. and Frances E. (Walrath) Reed. In 1942 he joined the Navy and was involved in three invasions. Around 1943, he was sent to the North Atlantic side of North Africa to fight the Germans in the North African Theater. He was a first-class Seaman No. 1 Gunner, and was also the landing craft infantry-battle station lookout. He was shot down in Angeo, Italy. There were 400-500 ships. Mr. Reed often recollected, "You couldn't put a stick in the water off the landing craft without touching a body." The Germans on land were dug in, giving them the advantage. Mr. Reed was hit in the head and through his chest and hospitalized in Oran, Africa, for 11 months. On Aug. 20, 1951, he married Alice Elizabeth Ireton in Casper. He worked at a filling station for a short time and then pipelined for Engineer Limited in Denver for 15 years. He had rheumatic fever twice, once as a child and again in 1954. Around 1959 he went to work in Shirley Basin as a heavy equipment operator before his health failed and he went on military disability. He is survived by his wife Alice Elizabeth Reed of Douglas; children Kenton Reed of Douglas and Shellie Aars of Gillette; brothers Earl Reed of Douglas, Murray Reed of Casper and Ellis Reed of Casper; grandchildren Kim Butts and Jason Reed of Douglas and Charles Wesley Cotton and Brandon Lee Cotton of Gillette; and great-grandchildren Morgan Griffin and Blake Griffin of Meeteetse and Rachael Butts of Douglas. He was preceded in death by his parents; daughter Debera Ann Reed; and brother Richard M. Reed. Serving as pallbearers were Larry Reed, Bruce Reed, Tom Reed, Stanley Reed, Bobby Reed, Danny Reed and Jason Reed. Serving as honorary pallbearers were all his remaining friends and family. A memorial has been established in his name. Gorman Funeral Home-Converse Chapel of Douglas was in charge of the arrangements.

KATHLEEN ANN GEIB
A celebration of life for Kathleen Ann Geib, 62, will be held from 1-3 p.m. April 13 at the Community Center in Broadus, Mont. Mrs. Geib died April 4 of natural causes at her Douglas residence. She was born Oct. 28, 1940, in Ridge, Mont., the daughter of Earl and Emmaline (Irish) Malley. She was reared and educated in Ridge and Broadus. In 1967 she married Daniel Bud Geib in Belle Fourche, S.D. The couple lived in Alzada, Mont., where they raised their family. Mrs. Geib was an excellent homemaker and enjoyed animals and her grandchildren. She is survived by seven children, Leo R. Malley of Belle Fourche, Janice Marie Malley of Gillette, John Geib and wife Cindy of Douglas, Bradley Geib and wife Anita of Hulett, Wendy Geib of Belle Fourche, Daniel Geib of Belle Fourche and Terry Geib of Douglas; and eight grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband Daniel Bud Geib on May 30, 1990; an infant daughter; a sister; and 10 brothers. A memorial to the choice of the donor would be appreciated by the family. Gorman Funeral Home-Converse Chapel of Douglas is in charge of arrangements.

BARBARS JEAN (RUSSELL) PETERSON
Family funeral services for Barbara Jean (Russell) Peterson, 77, were held April 5 at Platte Funeral Chapel in Wheatland, with Pastor Martin Strom officiating. Interment followed at Wheatland Cemetery. Mrs. Peterson died April 2 at Wyoming Medical Center in Casper. She was born Jan. 16, 1926, in Wheatland to Alvin and Sarah Russell. She was raised on the family ranch on Cottonwood Creek north of Wheatland, and graduated from Wheatland High School. She attended University of Nebraska for a year and then returned home to help her family after her father died. On June 1, 1946, she married Lee Peterson in Wheatland. The couple moved to Douglas in 1949. Mrs. Peterson s main interest was her family, and her next love was children. She taught Sunday school and was active as guardian in Job s Daughters. She was also a den mother for Cub Scouts. She was an Eastern Star member and past-president for PEO. She is survived by her husband Lee Peterson; daughter Judy Lea Wickam of Glendo; son Richard Peterson of Greenwood Village, Colo.; sisters Wilma Russell of Cheyenne and Fay Boyd of Fort Collins, Colo.; brother Cush Russell of Cheyenne; three granddaughters and two grandsons. She was preceded in death by one sister and two brothers. Memorials to Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch, 1732 2 72 West, Billings, Mont., 59106, or a charity of the donor s choice would be appreciated by the family. Gorman Funeral Homes-Converse Chapel of Douglas was in charge of the arrangements.

AUSTIN HILL-MURPHY
Funeral mass of Christian burial for Austin Lee Hill-Murphy, age 5, was held March 12 at St. Rose Catholic Church with Rev. Father Kevin Koch officiating. Burial was held at 1:30 p.m. that day at Prairie Rest Cemetery in Guernsey. Austin died March 7, 2003, at the family home in Torrington. The casket was closed at the church service. Those who wish may direct memorial contributions to Platte Valley National Bank for the Austin Hill Benefit Account. Austin was born May 12, 1997, in Douglas. He was the son of Steven D. Hill and Crystal L. Donnelly. He moved with his mother to Torrington in 2001 where he was enrolled in kindergarten at Lincoln Elementary. Austin loved to play with his brother and sister and he loved to watch Scooby-Doo movies. He enjoyed spending time with his father. Austin enjoyed riding his bicycle, and he loved going to school and being with friends. He is survived by his mother and stepfather, Crystal and Kraig Murphy of Torrington; his father, Steven D. Hill of Douglas; sister Leah Donnelly and brother James Donnelly of Torrington; grandmother Sandra Rantz of Torrington; grandparents Elaine and Richard Donnelly of Douglas; grandparents Steven and Gloria Hill of Cheyenne; grandparents Herman and Carol Kramer of Provo, Utah; great-grandmothers Dorothy Vinar of Chadron, Neb. and Bernice Hill of Douglas; and great-great grandmother Cora Cole of Douglas. Other survivors include many aunts, uncles, friends and other relatives. He was preceded in death by his great-grandfather, Louie Martinez; great-grandmother Rena Donnelly; and an uncle, Kevin Rantz.

ALICE MAUDE DeRYCKE
Funeral services for Alice Maude DeRycke, 91, will be held at 2 p.m. March 21 at Saint James Catholic Church in Douglas with Father Cliff Jacobson officiating. Internment will be in the Douglas Park Cemetery. Mrs. DeRycke died March 16 at Memorial Hospital of Converse County. She was born Nov. 12, 1911, in Pittsford, N.Y., to Andrew Joseph and Cora Maude (Shannon) Kuntz. She was reared and educated in Rochester, N.Y., where she worked for Bausch & Lomb as a time keeper for eight years. On June 13, 1936, she married Armand Louis DeRycke in Rochester. The couple had three children, Marie, William and Ramona. Following her husband's death in 1958, she returned to Bausch & Lomb for eight more years. She then moved to Colorado in 1973 to be closer to family. In 1989, she moved to Douglas to be with her son. Mrs. DeRycke enjoyed many activities at the Douglas Senior Citizens Center. She also enjoyed embroidery, crocheting, playing cards and making Christmas tree ornaments. She really enjoyed receiving mail and loved her cat and dog. She is survived by three children, Bill DeRycke of Douglas, Marie and husband Patrick Parent and Ramona and husband Ralph Langley, all of Windsor, Colo.; five grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and one great-great grandson. She was preceded in death by her husband, parents and two brothers, William and Donald Kuntz. Serving as honorary pallbearers will be Nicole Dziardziel, Mary Nachtman, Myrtle Guthrie, Edith Santistevan and Norma Brooks. A memorial to the Douglas Senior Citizens Center, P.O. Box 192, Douglas, 82633 would be appreciated by the family. Gorman Funeral Home-Converse Chapel of Douglas is in charge of the arrangements.

TED L. PENNINGTON
Funeral services for Ted L. Pennington, 68, were March 10, 2003, at the Niobrara County Fairgrounds in Lusk. Pastor Gary Walker and Rev. Juanita Gillies officiated. Interment at Lusk Cemetery followed the ceremony. Mr. Pennington died March 5 at Memorial Hospital of Converse County with his wife and daughter by his side. Mr. Pennington was born in Lost Springs on Dec. 13, 1934, to Roy J. and Bernice M. (Pearce) Pennington. He was raised on the family ranch just north of Lost Springs. He attended grade school in Lost Springs and went to Manville High School, where he played football and graduated in 1953. After graduation, Mr. Pennington chose to stay at Lost Springs and joined his parents in working the ranch and with their Livestock Trucking Company. He also joined the Wyoming National Guard. On Jan. 15, 1956, Mr. Pennington married Donna Fae Wolfe in Lusk. The couple made their home at Lost Springs on the Pennington Ranch and gave birth to a daughter, Diane, and son, Sam. Mr. Pennington was a lifelong rancher, a good steward of the land, a respected horseman and a loved member of the community. He was an excellent welder, doing his own work on the ranch and odd jobs for neighbors. The greatest love of his life was family, especially watching his three grandchildren grow up. Mr. Pennington and his wife were proud supporters of the University of Wyoming Cowboy football team and held season tickets for many years. Mr. Pennington was a member of the Lusk UCC Congregational Church, Cowboy Joe Club, charter member of the Niobrara Roping Club and the Order of Moose in Douglas. Mr. Pennington is survived by his wife, Donna; daughter Diane and husband Jim Hall of Gillette; grandchildren Kyle, Kali and Koel Hall of Gillette; sister Charlene Glandt of Cheyenne; and several nieces and nephews. Mr. Pennington was preceded in death by his son Sam, his parents, sister Leona Jean, and brother Jim. Memorials can be made to the American Cancer Society or a charity of the donor's choice. Cicanec-Pier Funeral Home of Lusk was in charge of the funeral arrangements.

ELSIE IRENE MILLER
Funeral services for Elsie Irene Miller, 71, of Guernsey were held March 17, 2003, at Faith Baptist Church in Guernsey. Pastor Randy Simmons and Pastor Carl Steinle officiated. Interment was at Douglas Park Cemetery. Mrs. Miller died March 13 at Platte County Memorial Nursing Home. She was born Jan. 7, 1932, on the family ranch near Bill to Swan Patrick and Hazel (Scott) Johnson. Mrs. Miller attended school at Bill and later at Douglas High School, where she graduated. She married Billy Eugene Miller on Oct. 20, 1951, in Cheyenne. The couple worked on several Wyoming ranches until October 1959, when they bought their own ranch west of Guernsey. Mrs. Miller continued to run the ranch after the loss of her husband in 1975. When she turned ranch over to her son in 1992, Mrs. Miller maintained an active role in management. She was a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Auxiliary, an EMT with Guernsey Fire Department and an active member of the Rural Fire Department for 23 years. Mrs. Miller enjoyed ranch life, feeding birds, bird watching and all of her pets. She is survived by two children and their spouses, Dennis and Donna Miller of Guernsey, Dixie and Dan Bruce Oedekoven of Sturgis, S.D.; grandsons Dusty Oedekoven and wife Jenn of Sheridan and Matthew Oedekoven of Brookings, S.D.; great-granddaughter Morgan Rose Oedekoven of Sheridan; two step-grandsons; and five step-great-grandchildren; sisters Ruth Pellatz of Glenrock, Frances Tschacher of Manville and Ida Mae Anderson of Casper. Mrs. Miller was preceded in death by her parents; husband Billy E. Miller on Nov. 25, 1975; infant daughter Hazel Gay Miller; brothers Daniel Johnson in infancy and John Johnson. Dusty Oedekoven, Matthew Oedekoven, Shawn Bevier, Carl Bevier, Larry Wells and Paul Schoolcraft served as pallbearers. Honorary pallbearers were all of her family and many friends. Memorials to the Guernsey Rural Fire Department, P.O. Box 591, Guernsey, 82214-0591, would be appreciated by the family. Gorman Funeral Home-Platte Chapel of Wheatland was in charge of the arrangements.

CHARLENE JUNE SMITH
Private family services are planned for Charlene June Smith, 62, of Douglas. Mrs. Smith died March 12, 2003, at her residence. She was born March 15, 1940, in Glenrock to Marion and Avis (Creager) Leach. Mrs. Smith was reared and educated in Glenrock and graduated from Harrison High School in Harrison, Neb. She moved to California, where she married Charles Edward Smith on June 14, 1966, in National City. The couple moved to Douglas in 1981, where they did upholstery work. Mrs. Smith worked at the Plains Restaurant and, because of health reasons, retired in 1999. In her spare time, she enjoyed needle craft and playing darts. Mrs. Smith is survived by her husband Charles E. Smith of Douglas; children Welchie Patterson of Sundance, Renea Freier of Belle Fouche, S.D., Yvonne Palmer of Green River, Daniel Patterson of the United States Navy, and Edward Smith of Denver; sister Kay Daniels of Douglas; brothers Rex Leach of Eugene, Ore., Larry Leach of Woodburn, Ore., and Ed Pettijohn of Douglas; 14 grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. Mrs. Smith was preceded in death by her parents and two brothers, Pee Wee Pettijohn and Max Leach. A memorial to the American Lung Association, P.O. Box 713, Casper 82602, would be appreciated by the family. Gorman Funeral Home-Converse Chapel of Douglas is in charge of the arrangements.

CHARLES 'GEORGE' TERRY
Funeral services for Charles George Terry, 69, will be held at 1 p.m. April 5 at Trinity Baptist Church in Douglas, with Pastor Frederick D. Dyer officiating. Interment will be at Douglas Park Cemetery with Samuel Mares American Legion Post #8 conducting military honors. Mr. Terry died of natural causes March 28 at his home in Douglas. He was born June 20, 1933, at the family ranch north of Oshoto, to Ezra and Dorothy (Lamb) Terry. After finishing eighth grade, he worked for various area ranches. On June 27, 1952, he married Ardella Rose Fowlkes in Broadus, Mont. In July he joined the Army and served in the 25th Infantry Division in Korea. He reenlisted after his discharge to receive more mechanical training. In 1955, he was discharged as a corporal and returned to the Sundance area. He and his wife worked on area ranches and then at the uranium mines. The couple later moved to Jeffrey City, Shirley Basin and Douglas, raising four children along the way. In 1985 they moved to Gillette, where he worked at the coal mines until his retirement. The couple returned to the home they had built while living in Douglas, and stayed there until the time of his death. Mr. Terry helped his wife raise their four children and loved fishing, hunting and woodworking. He was always tinkering or building something in his shop. He is survived by four children, Chip Terry of Douglas, Dorothy Sjol of Elko, Nev., Karen Grucella of Douglas and Kathy Terry of Ridgecrest, Calif.; sisters Laura Johnson of Gillette, Marie Noonan of Gillette and Mildred Carree of Denver; grandchildren Jason Sjol, Daniel Sjol, Chris Werner, Joshua Werner and Jeffrey Grucella; and great-grandchildren Mariah Sjol and Alec Werner. He was preceded in death by his parents and wife Ardella Rose Terry on March 18, 2003. Pallbearers will be Chip Terry, L. Dow Rathbun, Roger Rathbun, Jeffrey Grucella, Daniel Sjol and Jason Sjol. Honorary pallbearers will be Ronald Sjol, Chris Werner and Joshua Werner. Memorials to Trinity Baptist Church, 1424 Griffith Way, Douglas, would be appreciated by the family. Family and friends may call at the funeral home from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. April 4. Gorman Funeral Home-Converse Chapel of Douglas is in charge of the arrangements.

ROBERT 'BOB' A. OWENS
Services were held March 29 for Robert A. Bob Owens, 79, in Yankton, S.D. Burial was held March 31 at Greenwood Cemetery in Chadron, Neb. Mr. Owens, a resident of Gayville, S.D., died March 26, 2003, at Avera Sacred Heart Hospital in Yankton. He was born Aug. 20, 1923, at Chadron, to John and Ruth Eberly Owens. He grew up and attended schools at Chadron until the fifth grade. He then lived and attended schools in Wyoming, Missouri and South Dakota, graduating from high school at Flint, Mich. He served in the Navy during World War II from 1942 to 1946. While stationed at San Diego, Calif., he received hospital training. Then, while stationed at Pensacola, Fla., he received operating room training at U.S. Naval Hospital. He served aboard two ships at Iwo Jima and Okinawa. Following discharge he entered nurse training school at Chicago, and later transferred to Sister of Charity Hospital in Billings, Mont., graduating in 1950. Mr. Owens started his nursing career in Douglas, but was recalled to the Korean War and served in the Marines from 1951 to 1952. In 1953, he was the first male anesthetist to graduate from Sacred Heart Hospital. He then worked at Ivinson Memorial Hospital in Laramie for 12 years. For four years, he taught operating room technique at University of Wyoming s School of Nursing at Laramie. He then moved to Billings and worked at St. Vincent s for two years. He returned to Yankton in 1968 and worked as an anesthetist. In 1972 he transferred to the recovery room at Sacred Heart Hospital, where he stayed until 1985 when he moved to Gayville. Mr. Owens was a member of the Gayville American Legion Post No. 237. He is survived by sister-in-law Marie Owens of Douglas; nephew and his wife John William and Susan Owens of Omaha; niece Cynthia and husband Les Lieurance of San Francisco; three grandnieces and nephews; good friend Keith Lane of Gayville; and many special nursing friends. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother John William Owens.

GILBERT EUGENE 'GIB' SCHECK
Funeral services for Gilbert Eugene Gib Scheck were held March 31 at St. Nicholas of Myra Church in Hays, Kan., with burial in St. Joseph Cemetery. A vigil service and Victoria Daughters of Isabella rosary was held March 30 at Cline s Mortuary of Hays. Mr. Scheck died March 28, 2003, at his home in Hays. He was born Sept. 25, 1935, in Walker, Kan., to Joseph P. and Magdalena (Windholz) Scheck. He married Judeth Jude Mai Oct. 29, 1962, in Victoria, Kan. He was a member of St. Nicholas of Myra Catholic Church of Hays. He retired from the Kansas Corporation Commission in 1991. He served in the Army. He lived in Victoria until moving to Hays in 1965. Survivors include his wife Jude; daughter Monique Scheck-Holmes of Douglas; four brothers, Peter Scheck of Great Bend, Kan., Edwin Scheck of Russell, Kan., Melvin Scheck of Russell and Linus Scheck of Macksville, Kan.; four sisters, Rubina Dinkel of Oakley, Kan., Mary Weigel, Katie Scheck and Lena Meder, all of Victoria; and three grandchildren, Shaylan Holmes, Liam Holmes and Riley Holmes. He was preceded in death by two brothers, Seraphine Scheck and Victor Scheck and two sisters, Bertha Denning and Leona Scheck. A memorial to the Gilbert E. Scheck Scholarship Memorial or the Northwest Kansas Dementia/Alzheimers Association, care of Cline s Mortuary of Hays, 1919 E. 22nd, Hays, Kan., 67601, would be appreciated by the family.

LAWRENCE J. CAHILL
Funeral services for Lawrence J. Cahill, 71, were held March 11, 2003. Fr. Paul T. Josten officiated. Burial was in Riverview Cemetery at Chamberlain, Neb. Music was provided by soloist Kelly Frank, organist Shirley Johnson and the congregation. Casket bearers were Jeremy Cahill, Barry Cahill, Matthew Hauck, Anthony Zimmerman, Dan Cool and Steve Dvorak. All of Mr. Cahill s coffee buddies were honorary bearers. Mr. Cahill was born Nov. 1, 1931, to Thomas A. and Evelyn A. (Weins) Cahill in Platte. He grew up and attended school in Platte. Mr. Cahill married Carol Alyce Lester of Reliance, S.D., on Nov. 8, 1951, in California. The couple lived most of their life in Chamberlain, where Mr. Cahill worked as an auto mechanic. Mrs. Cahill died on July 7, 1975, and Mr. Cahill moved to Douglas, where he worked for several years before returning to Platte. Mr. Cahill enjoyed fishing, gardening, collecting guns, square dancing and socializing with friends. He is survived by his three children, Jerry and wife Gloria Cahill of Tukwila, Wash., Debra and husband Milo Kolda of Sturgis, S.D., and Barbara and husband John Hauck of Tyndall, Neb.; mother Evelyn Cahill of Platte; three sisters, Betty and husband Lawrence Cool of Platte, Lois and husband Paul Dvorak of Kathryn, N.D., and Joan and husband Denny Heetland of Tempe, Ariz.; four grandchildren and several nieces, nephews and cousins. Mr. Cahill was preceded in death by his wife, father and a brother, Harold.