Shirley Elizabeth Young
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- Published: 30 May 2020
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Shirley Elizabeth Young was born on July 16, 1948; the second oldest of five children. In 1966, she graduated from Shawnee Mission North High School. On November 17, 1973, she married the love of her life, Jack Young, and together they built a beautiful family. Their union was blessed with two daughters; later gaining two sons and four grandchildren. Her favorite place to be was spending time and making memories with her family. In addition to being a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother, Shirley was an avid reader and Nascar fan.
She was generous, loving, and kind to everyone she met, and if she was your friend, you had found a treasure. She always remembered birthdays and never forgot to send a card. She had a sweet and gentle voice and a graceful way about her that put you at ease. She was the best listener and encourager, and had a wonderful sense of humor. Her smile lit up a room and her laugh was contagious.
Jerry George Hedrick, Sr.
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- Published: 15 May 2020
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Jerry George Hedrick, Sr.
July 8, 1934-April 18, 2020
Jerry was born to Samuel Lee Hedrick, Sr. and Callye Lucille Miller-Hedrick. He was born in McCall’s Chapel, (Allen) OK. Jerry is preceded in death by his siblings: Samuel Lee Hedrick, Jr. James Charles Hedrick, Sr., Billye Ruth Ragsdale, and Leana Jeanne Staggs. He is survived by brother Donald Dean Hedrick, Nelle Rose Horner, and Pamela Joy Jones.
In 1955, he married the love of his life, Nelda Jean McKinnerey, who preceded him in death, in April 2016. They spent many wonderful years together in ministry and sharing the gospel of their Lord and Savior. They have 3 children: Farrah Lucille Dever, Jerry (Bud) George Hedrick, Jr. and their youngest, who preceded Jerry in death, Samantha Gean Lozano.
Jerry was the proud grandfather of 8: Max Hedrick, Andrew Dever (deceased), Tim Holcom, Katie Doherty, Joshua Holcom, Alysse Garner, Jon Holcom, and Nathan Hedrick. In total, he had 19 great-grandchildren whom he loved very much.
Jerry worked for Magma Copper Company in San Manuel, Arizona, for 30 years, and when he left to go into ministry, Jerry and his wife Nelda spent 45 years ministering, with 20 of that being with the Foursquare Church. Even after retirement, they were always eager to share their love of Jesus Christ. He was always willing to give of himself in time, in money, in home, and in love. There was no stranger to Jerry. He truly embodied the call of Christ: “Go into all the world and preach the Gospel.”
Jerry went to be with his Maker, April 18th, 2020, in the presence of his son, Bud. He was surrounded by love and family and with hands held he took his last peaceful breath.
Memorial services (pending) will be held in Arkansas City, Kansas and Oracle, Arizona.
Delores "Dee" Cox
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- Published: 12 May 2020
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It is with great sadness that on April 19, 2020. Delores (Dee) A. [(Godfrey) Bratton] Cox lost her courageous battle to pancreatic cancer, at the young age of 68, in her home surrounded by her family and friends.
Dee was born to Bob and Delores Godfrey on Valentine’s Day of 1952. She was a Kansas City, Kansas resident, Original Dotte. In 1972 she graduated from Wyandotte High School and later received her Associates Degree from Kansas City Kansas Community College. She was a member of the National Honor Society and Phi Theta Kappa. She also served in the Sunflower Composite Squadron of the Civil Air Patrol. After 40 years of work, she retired from the railroad working for several different companies including The Rock Island, The Cotton Belt and The Union Pacific.
Dee loved all holidays, especially Christmas. Her home was decorated like a Christmas Wonderland. She would spend countless hours in the kitchen making fudge and baking cookies, candies and breads for her family and friends. The memories of her home smelling of fudge and cinnamon! She had a way of making every Christmas memorable.
She had a heart of gold and would give to anyone in need. She met no strangers. Dee and her late husband Daniel opened their home to many foster children who became members of the family in their eyes. She loved to sit and talk with anyone. Her favorite day of the week was Sunday, which was made even more special by the family and friends that came to dinner each week. She had her way of making each person feel as if they were her favorite. She always told the truth, even if it was not what you wanted to hear.
She was lucky to have experienced unconditional love twice in her life. She married her first love and the father of her children, Daniel Bratton in April of 1971. They were married for 28 years when he passed in 1999. She met her second love and bonus father to her children through her work at the railroad. Dee and Gary Cox were married in March of 2002. They both were able to find love after the death of their spouses and enjoyed a cut short life together. Dee is preceded in death by her father Robert, her mother Delores, her late husband Daniel, her sister Patty Kay, her nephew Darren and her beloved daughters Debbie and Catherine. She is survived by her husband of the home, Gary Cox, and their children Daniel (LuAnn) Godfrey, Debra (BJ) Caldwell, Steven Cox, Patty Clayborn, and Danielle (Joe) Fuentez; her 12 grandchildren; Amanda, Colin, Eric, Haley, Jacob, Jeff, Jessica, Kaitlynn, Kenneth, Matthew, Megan, Natalie, Payton, Sarah and Shane. Eight siblings, numerous nieces and nephews, cousins and close friends that became family.
Due to the unfortunate events with COVID-19, the family will host a celebration of life ceremony at a later date. Dee will be laid to rest in Dyer, Arkansas at the Dyer Cemetery at that time. The family would like to thank Good Shepherd Hospice for the loving care they provided. We would also like to thank all of the friends and family who spent countless hours making her last months on Earth so memorable. As she would say “Merry, Happy, Thanky!”
Death should not do us part
Only between mind-
And soul-
But there is no end.
A life lives even after Death
Not as a solid form-
In the Air and Ground-
In the mind-
One’s life lives on.
-By Payton Fergus
Henrietta Mary Ferguson
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- Published: 05 May 2020
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Henrietta Mary Ferguson passed away on May 3, 2020. Born February 28, 1944 in Beatrice, Nebraska, Mary was a loving mother who adored dogs and time spent outdoors, including walks at Loose Park and working in the yard. She also was a dedicated sports fan, always rooting hard for her Kansas City Chiefs and Kansas Jayhawks. Mary held various jobs throughout her life, but most enjoyed her time as a server at various local restaurants, and the interaction and banter with her regular customers. Mary was preceded in death by her husband, Richard Lee, and her son Joe. She is survived by her daughters, JoAnn Hawthorne and Becky Reid, her son Dan Ferguson, eight grandchildren and two great-grandchildren, as well as her sister, Sandy, and her brother, Robert. A private celebration of life for immediate family will be held at a later date.
William Edgar D'Souza
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- Published: 17 April 2020
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It is with great sadness that the family of William Edgar D’Souza announces his passing after a brief illness on 15 April 2020 in Kansas, USA at the age of 87.
Affectionately known as Willie he was originally from Byculla, moving to Bandra and immigrated to Kansas, USA in 1999.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 58 years Yvonne (nee Pereira), his cherished sons Russell(Diane), Darren(Melody) and Randolph(Sharon) and his treasured grandchildren Bianca, Capri, Nicholas, Nathan, Brianna and Savannah.
Waiting to welcome him were his parents Condorceth & Felismina, his sisters Lyra(Oliver), Alice(Teddy), Ida(Florence) and his brothers Sonny(Theresa) and Freddy.
Willie will be fondly remembered by his sisters-in-law Yollande(Sabino), Anstice(Robert (late), his brothers-in-law Dugald (Iris (late), Lionel(Clara), and his numerous nieces and nephews.
Born 9th Dec 1932, he was raised in Byculla. For a few years he worked in Qatar before moving to Bandra, Mumbai. Willie was always very hard working and became partner in Commercial Transport Services which was established by his father-in-law Meropio (late)/Lily(late).
Willie always stayed healthy, focusing strongly on exercise and good eating habits, he loved sport and in his younger years was a very avid hockey player. He had a great love for music and singing which he instilled in all of us and is fondly remembered for singing to the accompaniment of his wife on the piano at family gatherings.
He will be remembered for his loyalty to his family and helpful nature to many that came his way.
His funeral will be held in Olathe, Kansas with very limited participation during these unusual times.
We thank you all for your prayers for our beloved Papa and pray that Our Lord grant him eternal rest.
Russell Howard Vaca
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- Published: 09 April 2020
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Russell Howard Vaca of Kansas City, KS passed away peacefully April 3, 2020 from Covid 19 at KU with his loving wife and 2 children by his side at the age of 64. Russell was born on Easter on March 25, 1956 to John and Marilyn Vaca. He was the second blessing to their growing family which included an older brother that he looked up to and a little sister that came about 1 ½ years later. Russell graduated from Washington High School in 1974. At the age of 17, he met the love of his life Ramona Vaca (Nilges) through his now brother in law and she’s had his heart ever since. She fell in love with his beautiful green eyes and his smile. Russell and Ramona dated for approximately 2 years and were married on September 11, 1976 at Christ the King Catholic Church. In February of 1978 they added a little boy to their family and on Easter in April of 1979 they added their little girl.
Russell was a lover of antique cars and trucks. Throughout his life he owned various makes and models of vehicles, with his favorite being his 1967 Chevy Nova. He was always so proud of his vehicles. Early on, Russell started out working in the grocery business with his dad and brother. Around the time that he was married, he transitioned into working in the lumber business. He worked for Sutherlands, E. A. Nielson Lumber Company and Welborn Lumber. He also had a second job that he loved; delivering donuts for Judy’s Bakery. He would take his children with him on the routes at night.
Russell and his wife moved to Colorado for about a year to pursue his dream of living in the mountains, but returned to Kansas City after the birth of their first grandchild. Russell joined the Unified Government of Wyandotte County Parks and Recreation in 2002 and invested every bit of himself in his work. He was a very hard-working man and always took pride in everything that he did. He made many close friends along the way.
Russell enjoyed spending time with his family, looking at cars and watching sports. He loved the KC Royals, KU basketball and the KC Chiefs. He wanted nothing more than to see his Chiefs win a Superbowl in his lifetime. Little did we know what was to come 2 short months later.
Russell is survived by his wife of 44 years and soulmate Ramona Vaca of Kansas City, KS and their children Russell Vaca Jr of Kansas City, KS and Jennifer Lucas (Jen) of Trenton, MO. He is also survived by his mother Marilyn Vaca, brother John Vaca (Kay), and sister Diane Vaca. He also leaves behind 6 grandchildren: Colyn, Julianna, Elizabeth, Zechariah, Lillianna and Alexander. He loved nothing more than being a grandpa. He also leaves behind many extended family, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. He was preceded in death by his father John Vaca.
Russell’s family would like to thank the wonderful staff on Unit 61 at KU for the kindness and care that you gave him and our family throughout this time.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Go Fund Me page that a dear friend from Florida set up for his wife Ramona titled “Give Back to Ramona” to help with her finances and well-being.
Due to current restrictions a Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
Steven Lewis Graham
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- Published: 02 April 2020
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Steven Lewis Graham departed this life March 30, 2020. He is the secondson of Kenneth Lee and Rosie (Thomas) Graham. Born October 06, 1949
in Fort Scott, Kansas. The young family moved to Kansas City, Kansas
when Steve was six months old. The family was joined by little sister
DeAnn in 1961.
Steve graduated from Wyandotte H.S, in 1967, not attending his own
graduation. He worked at Griffs Drive-In while going to school. Upon his
graduation he worked at Hallmark for about a year then began a lifelong
career in 1969 with Kansas Gas Service. He started as a serviceman,
moving to A/C man, dispatcher and finally “working foreman”. Retiring in
2007 after thirty-six years.
One of his lifelong friends, Jim Vogel had encouraged him to come to work
at the gas company. Along with working there he was a staunch Union
man. Upon Jim’s promotion, Steve became the president of the
Steelworkers Local 12561 Union. A position he held until he retired.
Steve was in the Army, overnight. He joined but the next day he was told
because of a problem in one knee he couldn’t serve.
March 11, 1978 Steve met his future wife, Sharyn at a private club in
Kansas City, Kansas. At that time he was living in Shawnee. In June 1986
Steve proposed, they married the following October.
Sharyn had been married before, both sons were out on their own. Steve
became Grandpa to their children and Great Grandpa to their children’s
babies. Eight grandchildren, nine greats with two more on the way this
year.
He was “Uncle” to five, one nephew, four nieces, “Great Uncle” to nine,
three girls, six boys. The youngest, Abner was born Feb 28 in Moline,
Illinois. Beside the niece (Michele) in Moline, he has a niece (Christa) in
Independence and another (Natalie) in Portland, Oregon. His brother’s son
and daughter (Aaron and Erica) are both living in California.
Steve and Sharyn traveled all over the country on “union trips”, Las Vegas,
San Diego, Portland, New Orleans, just to name a few. They also traveled
after Steve retired. Hawaii in 2011 for their 25th anniversary. Bangor,
Maine in 2014, sadly for Sharyn’s sister-in-law’s funeral. Their last trip was
to San Diego in 2018 after they had to say goodbye to their beloved puppy
girl, Brandi. Steve got Brandi for Sharyn and brought her to her forever
home at eight weeks. Don’t tell Sharyn but Brandi LOVED Steve best.
Steve was an avid fisherman, hunter and golfer, having taken up golf late.
He always said he wasn’t very good at it but he had fun.
After retirement he joined a coffee group at Oak Park Mall with other
retirees from an assortment of professions.
Everywhere Steve went he made friends, keeping his old friends close,
much like his parents.
He will be greatly missed by his wife of thirty-three plus years, his brother
Dale, his sister DeAnn, grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and
nephews, great nieces and nephews, countless friends, extended family
and his Union brothers.
A “Celebration of Life” will be held at a future date.
Chong Her Yang
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- Published: 08 April 2020
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Chong Her Yang, age 76, passed away April 5th, 2020 in Kansas City, Kansas.
Chong is survived by his wife Mao Her Yang, five sons, Toua (Chue), Xao (Sumaly), Fue (Xai), Mike (Sarad), True (Pang) and two daughters Nou (Lue) and Tang (Joe). He also leaves behind 18 grandchildren, 7 great grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.
Chong was born October 25, 1943 to Txwj Ntxawg Yang and Maiv Her in Xiengkhouang Province, Laos.
He proudly served in the US Central Intelligence Agency’s Special Guerrilla Army unit in Laos from 1960-1962. During his service, he was wounded in action and lost his left arm. Upon his injury, Chong finished his education and became a teacher in Laos until they resettled to Thailand in a refugee camp.
In 1980, his nephews sponsored him and his family to the United States. While in the United States he made a home in Honolulu, Hawaii, Des Moines, Iowa, Fresno, California, and then to his eventual home in Kansas City, Kansas.
Chong was a very active man and often enjoyed hunting, fishing, and gardening in his free time despite his handicap. He loved spending quality time with his wife, whom he was happily married for 60 years, children and grandchildren. Chong was a man that loved others dearly and always provided encouragement, prayer and support to those who knew him.
Chong was a devoted Christian and spoke often of his faith in God; always open to sharing his faith to others, especially his children.
Chong is preceded in death by his parents, Txwj Ntxawg Yang and Maiv Her, his three brothers; Qhua Xaab, Xwm, and Nkag Pov, and four sisters; Txus, Vaab, Bla, and Rhav.
Our beloved father and grandfather will be dearly missed.
Due to current restrictions a private family service will be held.
Cruz (Ruth) Martinez
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- Published: 20 March 2020
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Cruz (Ruth) Martinez
Cruz (Ruth) Martinez, 93, Roeland Park, formerly of Kansas City, Kansas, died peacefully in her home on March 18, 2020, surrounded by two of her children who had lovingly cared for her. She is survived by sons, Antonio Martinez Jr. and Mario Martinez; daughters Maria Schuepbach (Tom), Veronica Sellers (Jere), and Pamela Martinez; 17 grandchildren, 15 great grandchildren; sister Mary Ann Marquez; and brothers Louis Marquez and Peter Marquez.
Cruz was predeceased by her parents, Antonio and Inez Marquez; brothers Lupe Marquez, John Marquez, and Antonio Marquez, Jr.; sisters Mary Ramirez, Phyllis Rocha, and Theresa Jenkins; and son, Rene Martinez.
Due to current restrictions, only a private family service will be held.
Cruz was born in Kansas City, Kansas, where she spent most of her life. A devoted daughter and mother, in addition to raising her family, she lovingly cared for her parents as they aged. She later gave all of her time and devotion to her beloved grandchildren, whom she babysat, drove to all types of activities, and endlessly spoiled. She continued to drive every day until late 2018. Cruz’s love of family was equaled only by her deep faith, spending time each day in prayer. She had a sharp memory and wit. She was also an excellent cook without the need of any recipe, expert seamstress and crocheter, and an avid reader. Finally, she loved to collect salt & pepper shakers. Her collection was extensive with each set having a story.
Cruz’s family thanks the caring staff of Kansas City Hospice; Sisters, Servants of Mary; and Tanya Hernandez for their care, assistance, and support, which helped the family care for Cruz at home during her final months. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to Kansas City Hospice or the Sisters, Servants of Mary in Kansas City.
