Midwest Cremation, Inc.

06/10/2026

Isaac Matthew Hayes

Isaac Matthew Hayes passed away unexpectedly on April 15, 2026 at the young age of 21 due to a training accident at Ft. Campbell, Kentucky. Isaac was born in Topeka, Kansas on March 1st, 2005 to Darryl Scott Hayes Jr. and Allison Marie Hayes (Phillips). He is lovingly known by his family nickname, Zizzle.

Isaac is survived by his mother Allison, older sisters Maddison and Dylann, and older brother Darryl the 3rd. Along with his caring girlfriend Jayla Clark and countless friends and extended family that will miss him dearly. Isaac was preceded in death by his father Darryl Jr. in April 2023.

Isaac graduated from Oskaloosa High School in 2023, where he was a member of the football, golf, track, and wrestling teams, as well as mixed choir. He enjoyed taking art courses, especially getting on the pottery wheel, and physical fi tness classes. During high school, Isaac participated in Jefferson County 4-H for several years, where he competed in archery, BB shooting, and earned a ribbon for his artwork at the 4-H fair. He always loved to compete and be a part of a team.

After graduation, Isaac took a gap year not knowing what he wanted to do until in fall 2024. He was recruited in the U.S. Army. He officially enlisted and started basic training February 10th, 2025. Graduated basic at Ft. Benning, Georgia on April 25th, 2025, then graduated Advanced Individual Training for Infantry at Ft. Benning, Georgia on July 25th, 2025. He was stationed at Ft. Campbell, Kentucky shortly after. Serving with the 1st Battalion, 502nd Infantry Regiment, as a rifl eman in Bulldog Company.

Isaac was a kind and witty guy. Wherever he went, he made friends quickly. He had the most contagious laugh that will be missed forever. He was generous and believed deeply in taking care of the people he loved. Isaac had a way of making others feel included, whether through a joke, a conversation, or simply showing up when someone needed him. He loved spending time with family and friends, listening to music, being outside in any weather, playing video games, and making people laugh. He was a huge anime fan, especially of shows like Avatar: the Last Airbender, Jujutsu Kaisen, and Naruto. He loved reading the manga that went along with his favorite shows and collecting Pokémon cards.

Those who knew him will remember his sense of humor, his loyalty, and the light he brought into every room. Though his life was far too short, Isaac lived it fully and left a lasting impact on everyone fortunate enough to know him. He will be deeply missed and forever loved by his family, friends, fellow soldiers, and all whose lives he touched.

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06/10/2026

Ronald Ray Phipps II

Ronald Ray Phipps II

Ronald Ray Phipps II was born in Des Moines, Iowa, on June 13, 1994, to Ronald Ray Phipps and Michelle Marie (Oxenreider) Phipps. He passed away on June 1, 2026, at the age of 31.

Ron attended elementary school in Indianola, Iowa, from 1998 to 2007, completing kindergarten through seventh grade before his family moved to Overbrook, Kansas. He then attended Santa Fe Trail High School in Carbondale, Kansas, graduating in 2011. During high school, he participated in wrestling, football, cross-country, and track. He spent his summers bucking hay and enjoyed fishing and hunting with family and friends. He later attended Allen County Community College and Kansas State University.

After leaving school, Ron worked for US Foods, Walmart Distribution Center, Frito-Lay, Goodyear, and Polo Custom Products. In January 2025, he began working for Bimbo Bakeries as a Team Leader and remained there until his passing.

Ron was an avid outdoorsman throughout his life. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and golfing whenever he could. One of his greatest passions was restoring his 1983 Camaro, a labor of love he shared with the help of family and friends.

Ron is survived by his parents, Ronald Phipps and Michelle Phipps; his sisters, Lorree, Danielle, and Mikayla; his brother, Jordan; his nephews, Re*****on, Kaden, Brycen, Jaxson, and Mark; his grandmother, Joanne Douglas; and his aunts and uncles, Rhonda and Carl Yoder, Donal and Patricia Phipps, Elizabeth Miner, and Tammy Oxenreider. He is also survived by many cousins, extended family members, and friends who will miss him dearly.

He was preceded in death by his grandfathers, Dennis J. Oxenreider and Ronald E. Phipps; his grandmother, RoseAnne Phipps; and his uncle, Thomas R. Oxenreider.

A Celebration of Life will be held on June 28, 2026, at the Big Gage Shelter in Gage Park, 800 SW Gage Blvd., Topeka, Kansas 66606, from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Food will be provided beginning at 12:00 p.m.

06/10/2026

Dean Andrew Taylor

On June 5, 2026, Dean A. Taylor, of Lawrence, Kansas, passed away at his home, surrounded by his wife and children at the age of 63. He was born in February of 1963 in Minnesota and was the son of Lloyd and Beverly Taylor. He grew up in Iola, Kansas where he attended and graduated from Iola Public Schools in 1981. He later attended Emporia State University where he earned a BS degree in physical education.

Dean’s life was defined by the deep relationships he built with family, friends, and community. He was a devoted friend, cultivating lifelong and meaningful bonds from his youth, during his college years, and throughout his career. The true magnitude of those connections became profoundly evident during his last days, as a steady circle of friends and family gathered to offer comfort, share stories, and return the immense love Dean had shown them over the years.

Dean was an avid sports fan his whole life. He played football, basketball, and baseball growing up and later coached many teams at the high school level. Growing up, he was a fierce competitor and developed an undeniable passion for the game of football. At ESU, he played football at wide receiver under Coach Kramer and later served as a graduate assistant for the Hornet football team.

For the next 35 years, Dean taught physical education and weight training classes at the high school level while coaching football, basketball, and baseball. His role as teacher and coach at Andover Central High School from 2007, until he retired in 2025, was the highlight of his career. He was known as the “old school” coach by many of his players and students. Although he was tough with a no-nonsense attitude, he truly cared for his students and players, always pushing them to do their best in the classroom and on the field. He developed many friendships through teaching and coaching and had the opportunity to work with some outstanding student athletes and coaches.

Dean married Kelly O’Mara in 1997 in Emporia, Kansas, and he brought two children to the marriage. Together, they have four children, Zachary, Courtney, Cole and Jacob. Dean’s greatest joy in life was having his children and watching them grow into successful adults. Over the years, he continued to be extremely proud of their athletic and scholarly pursuits and achievements. Some of his favorite memories were traveling to baseball and basketball tournaments in the summer, coaching and watching his kids on various traveling and school teams, and going on family vacations. Most recently, he has relished his role as grandpa to his four grandsons and one granddaughter.

He is survived by his wife, Kelly, of the home; four children, Zachary Taylor, Courtney (Tim) Walker, Cole Taylor, and Jacob Taylor; five grandchildren, Reed Taylor, Luke Walker, Samuel Walker, James Walker, and Annie Walker; mother-in-law, Lynda O’Mara; three brothers, Doug Taylor, Terry (Carol) Taylor, David (Penny)Taylor, one sister, Sara Taylor (Jerry); and many other extended family members and friends. He is preceded in death by his parents, Lloyd and Beverly Taylor.

Services for Dean will be held at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church in Andover, Kansas. The vigil will be June 11th at 6:30 pm, and the funeral mass will be held at 11:00 am on June 12th. The mass will be followed by a luncheon in the church. The inurnment will be in Emporia, Kansas on Friday, June 12th at 4:00.

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt thanks to Interim Healthcare Hospice for their compassionate care.

Memorials

Andover Central High School Athletic Department

603 E. Central Ave., Andover, KS 67002

Interim Healthcare of Topeka Hospice

1251 SW Arrowhead Rd, Suite 103

Topeka, KS 66604

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06/09/2026

Gloria Jean Richers

Gloria Jean Richers, known lovingly as Jean, passed away on June 6, 2026, at her home at Shawnee Hills Senior Living Center.

Born on April 26, 1941, in Greeley, Colorado, to Veda "Ruth" Glendenning and Harvey John Adolph. Jean spent much of her childhood on a farm alongside her brother Dick, her Uncle Chetty Moore, and Aunt Veda. She remained there through high school, and in many ways her life was beautifully bookended by farm life: beginning with teenage years in Levant, Kansas and returning to that same peaceful rhythm decades later with Kenny Richers, the love of her life.

Jean married Kenny on June 23, 2001, and they shared 13 wonderful years together until his untimely passing on August 2, 2014. Their life on the farm in St. Francis, Kansas, was full of simple joys, early mornings, and plenty of character. They had llamas, cattle, horses, and a donkey named Hector, who seemed convinced he was a rooster. Hector often began braying at daybreak, waking Jean far earlier than she may have planned. But she didn’t mind. Those early mornings meant another quiet "cuppa" with Kenny, something she treasured almost every day of their marriage.

Jean worked as a CPB for many years and took great pride in her work. Each year, she celebrated the end of tax season with an annual trip to Las Vegas. One year, she won $5,000 on the slot machines, and yes, there are even pictures to prove it. What a wonderful surprise that was!

Jean also believed deeply in helping families and children. She served as a board member of the Sherman County Daycare Center, an important part of her life. Having understood firsthand the need for reliable daycare while raising her own children, she cared about making sure working parents had support and that children had a healthy, wholesome place to learn and grow. She helped with fundraising plans and contributed to the center’s mission with practical wisdom and a generous heart.

Away from the farm and the ledgers, Jean was an artist. She especially loved working in charcoal and was genuinely gifted at it. Her drawings were something she did for herself, a quiet hobby that helped center her and gave her a peaceful place to create. It was one of the many ways Jean expressed the thoughtful, observant, and steady part of who she was.

Tradition mattered deeply to Jean. She loved the Fourth of July and fireworks, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter. But perhaps her most beloved tradition was an Easter ritual she created for her children: a trip to the Dairy Queen to pick up chili dogs and slushies, followed by everyone gathering in the family room to watch The Wizard of Oz. Her children loved it. Jean knew it was special. And it became exactly the kind of simple, lasting tradition that tied her family together.

Jean is survived by her children, Alisa Gray and her husband Dan, Natalie Kalthoff and her husband Kevin, and Larry “Lynne” Saunders. She is also survived by her grandchildren, Belle Gray, Ava Gray, William Gray, Ariel Mull, Gabrielle Saunders, and Shai Kalthoff, as well as her sister, Shirley Soelberg and a brother, Bill Matney.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Veda “Ruth” Young, her father, Harvey Adolph, her uncle Chet and aunt Veda Moore, her brothers Jim Matney and Richard Adolph, her sister Ginger Corn, her nephew Kerry Adolph, and her beloved husband, Kenny Richers.

A graveside service will be held at 10:00 AM Friday, June 19, 2026, at the St. Francis Cemetery, St Francis, Kansas.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas, DSNWK, on behalf of Jean’s son, Larry “Lynne” Saunders.

Jean will be remembered for her steady love, her devotion to family, her creative spirit, and her gift for finding joy in ordinary moments. Her love lives on in the stories, traditions, and memories her family will carry forward.

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06/08/2026

Jane Knight Wolf

In Loving Memory of Jane Knight Wolf

Jane Knight Wolf, 83, of Topeka, Kansas, passed away peacefully on June 3, 2026.

Jane was born on November 17, 1942, in Horton, Kansas, to Charles and Twila Knight. Throughout her life, she was known for her warm and exuberant heart, her love of family and friends, and her unwavering dedication to education.

As a physical education teacher, Jane touched the lives of countless students, encouraging them not only to be active but also to believe in themselves. She had a gift for mentoring others and found joy in helping people reach their potential.

Jane embraced life fully. She was a devoted fan of the Kansas Jayhawks, loved spending time at the beach, treasured her friendships, and enjoyed reading, traveling, and creating lasting memories with those she loved most. Her kindness, laughter, and generous spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

She is survived by her daughter, Kimberly Wolf; her son, Andy Wolf, and his spouse, Christina Wolf; her brother, Charles Donald Knight; her grandchildren, Anthony Wolf, Kristen Wolf, and Andrianna Dai; and her great-grandchildren, Ahsianna Wolf, Brylee Jai Wolf, Anthony Wolf Jr., and Lian Dai.

Jane was preceded in death by her parents, Charles and Twila Knight, husband- William D Wolf and her sister, Sue Steanson.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society or the American Heart Association in Jane's honor.

Jane's legacy lives on in the countless lives she touched, the family she loved so deeply, and the memories that will forever be cherished by those fortunate enough to know her.

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06/08/2026

James "Jim" Edwin Chance

Surrounded by the love of his family, James Edwin Chance peacefully went home to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on May 30, 2026, at his home in Topeka, Kansas. Jim lived a life marked by faith, service, integrity, and love for others.

Born on September 9, 1937, in Topeka, Kansas, Jim was the son of Ralph and Elsie Chance (Bailey). He shared a loving marriage with his wife, Edna, and together they built a family that was the joy of his life. He is survived by his wife, Edna, and their three children: James Chance Jr. (Karen), John Chance (Christie), and Jackie Piel (Gary), all of Topeka; seven grandchildren, Devin, Bailey, Sydni, Bradley, Dalton, Bethany, and Camryn; three great-grandchildren, Niles, Jade, and Ezra; as well as three sisters, Maylene, Linda, and Brenda.

As a young man, Jim was active in 4-H and FFA, developing the strong work ethic and servant's heart that would characterize his entire life. He graduated from Seaman High School in 1955 and proudly served his country in the Army National Guard, including active duty at Fort Riley, Kansas, with the 496th Ordnance Company. He worked for the Santa Fe Railroad for ten years before spending the remainder of his career helping others through insurance and investments with Penn Mutual, Ohio National, SBG, and John Deere Life, retiring in 2002.

Jim's greatest passion was his faith in Christ. He faithfully served the Lord through many ministries, including teaching third-grade boys in Sunday school, leading children's programs, singing in the church choir, and serving as a deacon at Knollwood Baptist Church. He later continued his service as a deacon at Westridge Baptist Church and Topeka Bible Church. Jim and Edna were members of the Koinonia Sunday School class for the past twenty-one years. His steady faith, humble leadership, and caring spirit touched countless lives and left a lasting legacy for generations to come.

Family was one of Jim's greatest blessings. He treasured time spent with Edna, his children, grandchildren, and extended family. Some of his happiest memories were made on family trips to Red River, New Mexico, with his brothers, sisters, and their spouses: Bob and Lee Chance; Darrel and Jeaneane Chance; Maylene and Harold Williams; Linda and Jim Davis; and Brenda and Tim Davis. Jim and Edna also enjoyed wintering in Mission, Texas, for ten years during their retirement years.

Though we grieve his absence, we rejoice in the assurance of his eternal home in Heaven. Jim's life was a testimony to God's faithfulness, and his example of love, kindness, and unwavering faith will continue to inspire all who knew him.

A memorial service will be held on June 12, 2026, at Topeka Bible Church, 1101 Mulvane Street, Topeka, Kansas. The family will receive friends from 10:00 to 10:45 a.m., followed by the service at 11:00 a.m., officiated by Pastor Hank Nelson.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Topeka Bible Church Youth Program or the Topeka Rescue Mission.

"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith." — 2 Timothy 4:7

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06/06/2026

Margaret "Peg" Ann Waterman

Dr. Margaret Ann Waterman (Peg) 75 of Overbrook Ks, passed away peacefully Thursday June 04, 2026.

Peg was born September 3,1950 to Robert Waterman and Evelyn (Christler) Waterman in St Mary’s Ohio. She is survived by her baby sister Linda Waterman in Grand Rapids, Ohio, who she loved dearly. With many nieces and nephews. She also is survived by some Dear friends Charles (Cj) and Ashlee Stark of Overbrook Ks, and of course her main favorite person aka “little brother” as she would call him, Liam Frederick Stark. Who she adored. They were the best of friends. They would spend outdoor time together; he would always be out there to help her with whatever it was that she needed. Whether it was to unload her car with animal supplies or help clean up the puppy messes in the yard or to just sit in a chair and enjoy the outdoors. He was her right-hand man.

Peg grew up in New Breman, Ohio. She attended Art school in Dayton Ohio. Peg started to work at a leather shop for a gentleman named Bill Manns, where she had shown that she wasn’t afraid to work especially with only having one hand, that did not keep Peg from doing anything, she would show that she is capable to doing anything that others can do, even if it would be more challenging she did it. There were many different adventures she had, after them she went on to get her master’s degree from Ohio State, followed by her PhD education, then she became a professor at The Baker University in Baldwin City, Kansas. That is where she really enjoyed life, teaching and interacting with her students and colleagues. Peg had a passion for her work. She loved visiting and meeting new people even if it was virtual. She was the biggest animal lover and supporter, especially with her dogs, then coming in second place would be her raccoons whom she would feed like they were part of her family. Let’s just say they weren’t happy when Peg no longer lived in that home where they accumulated. Peg was just wonderful soul who made an impact in other lives and for that she will always be remembered. We will miss her tremendously but now she is with her eternal father and has reunited with her loved ones.

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06/05/2026

Christina L. Scheer

Christina L. Scheer passed away peacefully on the morning of May 31, 2026, in Holton, Kansas, at the age of 54.

Born on November 24, 1971, Christina was the daughter of the late Milton Scheer and Ruby (Hatch) Schmitz. She was a longtime resident of Topeka, Kansas, where she built a life centered around family, kindness, and simple joys.

Christina enjoyed reading, coloring, and cooking. She found happiness in visiting the zoo and cherished the time she spent with her children and grandchildren. Her warm spirit, caring nature, and love for her family will be remembered by all who knew her.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Milton Scheer and Ruby (Hatch) Schmitz; her half-brother, J.P. Schmitz; and her son, Corey Smith.

Christina is survived by her siblings, Carl Scheer, Annette Parker, and her half-sister, Ashley (Thaddeus) Damman. She is also survived by her children, Brittany Scheer, Lola (Caleb) McDaniel, Joshua Schmitz, Chelsea Schmitz, and Cody Smith; nine beloved grandchildren; as well as several nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

Christina's memory will live on through the love she shared with her family and the many lives she touched throughout her years. She will be deeply missed and fondly remembered.

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06/03/2026

Edward Eugene Lignitz

Edward Eugene Lignitz, 79, of Carbondale, Kansas, passed away peacefully on May 30, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.

Ed was born on January 25, 1947, in Topeka, Kansas, to William and Florence “Dolly” (Dahlstrom) Lignitz. He grew into a man who was, in every sense, larger than life and will always be remembered as a true “gentle giant.” He had a quiet strength, a quick wit, and a warm sense of humor that brought comfort and laughter to everyone who knew him.

Ed proudly served his country in the United States Air Force as a Captain and Weather Officer from 1969 until his honorable discharge in 1981. His years of military service reflected his dedication, integrity, and commitment to others.

On May 4, 1996, Ed married the love of his life, Robin Lawless, whom he affectionately called his “Sugar Plum.” Their marriage was built on deep devotion, companionship, and unwavering love.

Ed is survived by his beloved wife, Robin Lignitz; daughters, Kellie (Anthony) Lignitz-Hahn, Aimee Francis, and Renae Willard; sons, Travis (Jaime) Henry and Cory Henry; sister, Dee Pierson; brother- and sister-in-law, Mike and Debbie Smith; twelve grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Florence “Dolly” (Dahlstrom) Lignitz; son, Jeremy Lignitz; sister, Arlene Slater; mother-in-law, Madeline Lawless; brother-in-law, Greg Pierson; and son-in-law, Jason Willard.

Those who knew Ed will remember a man who loved deeply, gave generously, and brought warmth to the lives of those around him. He was devoted to his family, treasured by his friends, and deeply loved by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His presence will be greatly missed, and his memory will be cherished forever.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, June 20, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at the Carbondale Elm Community Center.

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06/01/2026

Jayson Lynn McBroom Edwards

Jayson Lynn McBroom Edwards of Topeka, Kansas, passed away on May 25, 2026. Jayson was born on December 5, 1986, to Homer McBroom and Shelly Tompkins.

Jayson was a jack of all trades, and there was nothing he could not do. He was known for his kindness and his loud, outgoing personality. He loved to talk and never knew a stranger. He was the proud father of Nevaeh and Noah McBroom, whom he loved more than anything. His “Diaper Butt” and “Hubba Bubba” will miss him dearly.

Jayson was also “news famous” — if there was a news story in town, chances were Jayson would be featured.

Jayson was preceded in death by his father, Homer McBroom; his mother, Machelle Tompkins; his brother, Leon McBroom; his niece, Aubree Henry; and his nephew, Baby Brian Zabokrtsky.

He is survived by his children, Nevaeh and Noah McBroom; his sister, Marnie (Cody) Henry; his nieces, Abby and Lexi Henry; his nephew, Abel Henry; his brothers, Donnie McBroom and Coty Zabokrtsky; and the love of his life and mother of his children, Elizabeth Steinebach.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

The family would like everyone to know that if you are suffering from addiction, there is help available and you are loved. Please reach out to someone you trust.

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