Schmitt Funeral Home

Schmitt Funeral Home Schmitt Funeral Homes is a full service funeral home with locations in both WaKeeney and Quinter, Kansas.

We are here to provide personal and professional burial, cremation, and memorial services to Trego and Gove Counties and the surrounding area.

Caroline FlaxCaroline (Pfeifer) Flax, 95, of WaKeeney, Kansas, departed this life to be with her Lord and Savior on Frid...
09/14/2026

Caroline Flax

Caroline (Pfeifer) Flax, 95, of WaKeeney, Kansas, departed this life to be with her Lord and Savior on Friday, September 11, 2026, at Trego County-Lemke Memorial Hospital Long Term Care in WaKeeney. She was born on July 31, 1931, in St. Peter, Kansas, to Frank and Catherine (Dinkel) Pfeifer.

As a young child, Caroline worked in her father’s store and creamery. Caroline lived life to the fullest, and she definitely loved to laugh. She always said she was “happy go lucky,” and that she was.

Caroline was a member of the VFW Auxiliary and the St. Michael Altar Society. She enjoyed embroidering and crocheting and took great pleasure in spending time in her garden, where she grew not only beautiful flowers but also a large selection of vegetables. She also enjoyed collecting dolls and, when she was younger, loved going to polka dances.

Above all, Caroline cherished her family. She especially loved spending time with her grandchildren, who were her greatest pride and joy.

Caroline married Tony Flax on November 26, 1955. Together, they had four children, seven grandchildren, two step-grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren.

Caroline is survived by her daughter, Carolyn (Wesley) Wolf of Haven, Kansas; and sons, Anthony (Rose) of Hays, Kansas, Kenneth (Connie) and Francis (Peggy), both of WaKeeney, Kansas.

Her seven grandchildren, who were her pride and joy, include John (Wendy) Wolf, Travis (Amanda) Flax, Michelle (Dustin) Brannam, Mindy Flax, Tyson (Lindsay) Flax, Melanie (Tyler) Windholz, and Barbara (Brennen) Weigel. She is also survived by her step-grandchildren, Kami (Jerod) Jamison and Kirk (Liz) Lang, as well as her 16 great-grandchildren.

Caroline is also survived by her sister, Catherine (Felix) Heier, and her brother, Lloyd (Linda) Pfeifer; sisters-in-law, Anna Pfeifer, Thelma Pfeifer, and Alfrieda Pfeifer; along with numerous nieces and nephews, as well as many dear friends who will cherish her memory.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Frank and Catherine (Dinkel) Pfeifer; her husband, Tony Flax; her brothers, Albert Pfeifer and his wives, Jenny and Doris, Alvin Pfeifer, Allen Pfeifer, and Clarence Pfeifer; her sisters, Pauline and her husband, Clem Zerr, and Helen and her husband, Jake Zimmerman; and numerous in-laws, nieces, and nephews.

Sweet Caroline will be missed by so many, but especially all the wonderful people at LTC who loved her dearly and took such great care of her. Thank you all so much.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, September 17, 2026, from 5:00 to 6:00 p.m. at Schmitt Funeral Home, 336 N. 12th Street, WaKeeney, KS 67672. A Vigil Service will begin at 6:00 p.m., followed immediately by the Rosary.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, September 18, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at Christ the King Catholic Church, 412 N. 9th Street, WaKeeney, KS 67672. Burial in Christ the King Cemetery will immediately follow the Mass.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Christ the King Cemetery Fund or Mass Intentions and may be sent in care of Schmitt Funeral Home, 336 N. 12th Street, WaKeeney, KS 67672.

To share memories or leave condolences, please visit www.schmittfuneral.com.

View Caroline Flax's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

Don “Dick” Dykema, age 66, of WaKeeney, Kansas, passed away Tuesday, September 8, 2026, at Trego County Lemke Memorial H...
09/10/2026

Don “Dick” Dykema, age 66, of WaKeeney, Kansas, passed away Tuesday, September 8, 2026, at Trego County Lemke Memorial Hospital. He was born August 20, 1960, in Linton, North Dakota, to Orville and Marlene (Dornbush) Dykema.

Dick was a lifelong member of the Eagles Aerie #3774 and was proud to be part of the Eagles community. He enjoyed listening to rock and roll music, with Tom Petty being one of his favorites. His love of music often led to concert trips with his cousin, Dar, where they enjoyed seeing many of their favorite artists, including Tom Petty, KISS, Ted Nugent, Joe Walsh, Aerosmith, AC/DC, Lenny Kravitz, and Ozzy Osbourne, among many others.

Dick loved spending time outdoors, especially tending his backyard vegetable garden. He was an avid bird watcher and could identify the different types of birds he saw around his home. His backyard was also a special place where he enjoyed relaxing with his beloved dog, “Bud,” a Dalmatian he had named after his favorite b**r. He even built a pen in the backyard for “Miss Kitty,” the family’s indoor cat, so she could enjoy being outside with him.

After a long day of work, Dick enjoyed sitting outside with Woody, having a couple of b**rs while unwinding and enjoying the evening. Dick spent 36 years working in construction for Warren Construction, forming a tight friendship with his employer, Woody. Their friendship was an important part of Dick’s life and his daily routine.

Earlier in life, Dick enjoyed fishing and deer hunting with his father, Orville. He also grew up helping with harvesting in South Dakota, experiences that remained an important part of his memories. He was a loyal Minnesota Vikings fan, sticking with his team through both the good seasons and the bad ones.

Dick was preceded in death by his grandparents, Abel and Wilmina Dykema and Ike and Ann Dornbush; and his father, Orville Dykema.

He is survived by his mother, Marlene Dykema; his significant other, Jody Stearley; his brother, Orville “Ort” (Joy) Dykema, Jr., of Strasburg, North Dakota; and his sisters, Cindy (Merl) Ryckman of Po***ck, South Dakota, and Rhonda (Troy) Holzer of Trail City, South Dakota. He is also survived by his cousins, nieces and nephews, and many close friends who will miss him dearly.

A graveside service will be held at 10:30 a.m., Saturday, October 24, 2026, at WaKeeney City Cemetery in WaKeeney, Kansas.

Memorial contributions may be made to WaKeeney Eagles Aerie #3774 and may be sent in care of Schmitt Funeral Home, 336 N. 12th Street, WaKeeney, KS 67672.

To share memories or leave condolences with the family, please visit www.schmittfuneral.com.

View Don "Dick" Dykema's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

Delores "Kathy" Kathleen WoodDelores Kathleen “Kathy” Wood, age 78, passed away Sunday, August 30, 2026, at Logan County...
08/31/2026

Delores "Kathy" Kathleen Wood

Delores Kathleen “Kathy” Wood, age 78, passed away Sunday, August 30, 2026, at Logan County Senior Living.

Kathy was born October 7, 1947, in Denver, Colorado, to Bud and Ruby Mae (Grubb) Regan. She spent her formative years in Denver, where she attended and graduated from Abraham Lincoln High School.

After graduating, Kathy met Gerald “Jerry” Wood at the 7-Eleven on the corner of Federal and Harvard in Denver. The two were married on August 27, 1967, in Denver and spent 59 years together.

Kathy was a homemaker in Denver for most of her adult years. She enjoyed angels, getting her hair done each week, spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, celebrating holidays, and baking. She also enjoyed taking trips to Black Hawk, Colorado, where she liked trying her luck with the slot machines. After raising her children, Kathy worked in food service as a school lunch lady at Rishel Middle School.

Kathy is survived by her son, Rocky (Amy) Wood of Quinter, Kansas; daughter, Bridgette Wood of Sheridan, Colorado; grandchildren, Rocky (Heidi) Wood Jr., Evan Wood, Kailei Sowders, Tifani Ruehlen, Brittany Coffel; great-grandchildren, Jaxon Wood, Adalyn Wood, Saige Wood, Owen and Nash Nadeau; and brother, Terry Grubb of Quinter, Kansas.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved husband, Gerald “Jerry” Wood; and sisters, Sherry Valdillaz and Candace Wietelman.

A memorial service will be held at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, September 9, 2026, at 920 Lincoln Building, 920 Lincoln Street, Quinter, Kansas, with Stan Smith officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to the Dementia Society of America and may be sent in care of Schmitt Funeral Home, 901 South Main, Quinter, KS 67752, or made online at the Dementia Society of America.

To share memories or leave condolences, please visit www.schmittfuneral.com.

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Merlyn Edwin McDonaldMerlyn Edwin McDonald, 88, of Gove, Kansas, passed away on August 24, 2026, at Gove County Medical ...
08/28/2026

Merlyn Edwin McDonald

Merlyn Edwin McDonald, 88, of Gove, Kansas, passed away on August 24, 2026, at Gove County Medical Center.

Merlyn was born on March 8, 1938, in Shields, Kansas, to Howard Edward and Ruth Ina (Scott) McDonald. He spent his formative years in Gove, Kansas, and graduated from Gove High School with the class of 1956. Following high school, Merlyn attended Fort Hays Kansas State College for a short time before moving to Colorado to pursue business ownership.

Merlyn was a successful entrepreneur and owned and operated several businesses throughout the Littleton, Castle Rock, Parker, and Douglas County areas of Colorado. His businesses included a liquor store, bar and grill, doughnut shop, tuxedo rental shop, ceramic shop, and a pizza and arcade business.

On July 4, 1959, Merlyn married Marvel Valeree Albin. They later divorced. Merlyn found love again and married Betty Lou Shaw on November 18, 1978.

After his retirement, Merlyn returned to Gove, Kansas, where he and Betty made their home. He enjoyed working on and fixing up houses and attending auctions.

Merlyn is survived by his children, Stan McDonald of WaKeeney, Kansas; Scot McDonald of Colby, Kansas; and Brenda Hoopingarner (Lance) of Otis, Kansas; stepchildren, John Miller (Angela) of Abilene, Kansas, and Sterling Miller (Debi) of Wyoming; stepdaughters, Deidre Day (David) of Quinter, Kansas, and Tiffany Martin (Kenneth) of Oakley, Kansas; daughter-in-law, Tammy McDonald, Oberlin KS; 24 grandchildren, 34 great-grandchildren; and extended family members and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Betty; his son, Bryan McDonald; and his sister, Nola Marita Smith.

A graveside service will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, August 29, 2026, at Gove Cemetery in Gove, Kansas.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to the Humane Society of the High Plains and may be mailed to Schmitt Funeral Homes, 901 South Main Street, Quinter, KS 67752.

To share memories or leave condolences, please visit www.schmittfuneral.com.

View Merlyn Edwin McDonald's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

Valetta Mae KeslerValetta M. Kesler, age 93, passed away on August 15, 2026, at Presbyterian Manor in Lawrence, Kansas. ...
08/20/2026

Valetta Mae Kesler

Valetta M. Kesler, age 93, passed away on August 15, 2026, at Presbyterian Manor in Lawrence, Kansas. She was born on February 14, 1933, to Herman and Frieda (Finkbeiner) Folkers in Trego County, Kansas.

Valetta attended Excelsior Grade School in Trego County, Kansas, and graduated from Trego County High School in WaKeeney, Kansas, with the class of 1950. Valetta then attended nursing training in Salina, Kansas, until December 1951.

On February 24, 1952, she married Roland D. Kesler of Quinter, Kansas. To this union were born four sons.

Roland and Valetta lived in rural Gove County, Kansas, for six years before moving to Quinter in 1959. Valetta worked part-time at both Graham’s Greenhouse and the Coast-to-Coast Store, both in Quinter, Kansas. In the 1960s, Valetta took organ lessons and eventually became the organist at the Quinter Church of the Brethren, where she served for many years.

After Roland retired from the post office in 1987, they volunteered for two months each year for twenty years in New Windsor, Maryland, for SERV. The two spent three winter months each year for 25 years in McAllen, Texas. Roland and Valetta enjoyed traveling and traveled through all 50 states and several foreign countries.

Valetta is survived by her four sons, Daryl of WaKeeney, Kansas; Rex (My Hanh) of Houston, Texas; Gary (Laura) of Ottawa, Kansas; and Lynn (Bonnie) of St. Cloud, Florida. She is also survived by her grandchildren, Jeff (Tara) Kesler, McKenzie (Thiago) Baby, Grady (Jessica) Kesler, Brice (Whitney) Kesler, Lucas Kesler, Catherine Kesler, and Quinten Kesler; four step-grandchildren, Jordan Long, Christopher (Cuc) Long, Charissa Castellanos, and Brittany Abbott; and her great-grandchildren, Matthew Kesler, Emma Kesler, Aubrey Kesler, Connor Kesler, Garrett Kesler, Emily Kesler, Kellan Kesler, Isabella Baby, Noah Baby, Kobe Long, and Sarah Long. Also surviving is one sister, Corleen Morris.

Valetta was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Roland Kesler; her sisters, Marjorie Marcy, Dorothy Fuller, and Ruby Pranger; and her brothers, Eldon Folkers and Emery Folkers.

A funeral service will be held at the Quinter Church of the Brethren, 700 Grant St., on Saturday, August 22, 2026, with visitation at 9:30 a.m. and the funeral service at 10:30 a.m. Burial will immediately follow at the Quinter Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Quinter Senior Center or St. Croix Hospice. Memorial contributions may be sent to Schmitt Funeral Home, 901 S. Main, Quinter, KS 67752.

Condolences may be left for the family at www.schmittfuneral.com.

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Saundra Sue AndersonSaundra Sue Anderson, 86, of WaKeeney, Kansas, passed away on Thursday, July 16, 2026.Saundra was bo...
08/03/2026

Saundra Sue Anderson

Saundra Sue Anderson, 86, of WaKeeney, Kansas, passed away on Thursday, July 16, 2026.

Saundra was born on November 1, 1939, in Norton, Kansas, to Garold and Evlynn (Horesky) Sanborn. She graduated with the Norton Community High School Class of 1957 before earning her nursing degree from the Stormont Vail School of Nursing in Topeka, Kansas, becoming a Registered Nurse.

Saundra was united in marriage to John Anderson on October 11, 1962, in Hill City, Kansas. They shared nearly 29 years of marriage until John's passing on May 9, 1991.

Saundra dedicated more than 40 years of her life to caring for others as a Registered Nurse. Throughout her career, she served at numerous hospitals in several states, including Valley Hope in Norton, Kansas, before retiring. Her compassion and dedication to caring for others defined both her career and her life.

In her free time, Saundra enjoyed reading, crocheting, making jewelry, and collecting angel figurines. She also volunteered with Senior Care Companion and Senior Life Solutions, where she continued her passion for serving others and providing comfort and companionship.

She is survived by her children, Brian (Karen) Anderson of Norton, Kansas, Ron (Deb) Anderson of Norton, Kansas, and Linda Anderson of North Platte, Nebraska; numerous grandchildren; numerous great-grandchildren; and many other relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband, John Anderson; her parents, Garold and Evlynn Sanborn; and her sisters, Sharron Thompson, Mary Lou Stegman, Barbara Sandell, and Nancy Moden.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 15, 2026, at the Church of God, 1010 Churchill Drive, Norton, Kansas, with Pastor Chris Murphy officiating.

Saundra will be laid to rest beside her beloved husband, John, at Gibbs Family Cemetery in Mount Vernon, Georgia.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to the Trego County Lemke Memorial Hospital Long Term Care Unit and may be sent in care of Schmitt Funeral Home, 336 North 12th Street, WaKeeney, Kansas 67672.

To share memories or leave condolences, please visit www.schmittfuneral.com.

View Saundra Sue Anderson's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

Catherine “Katie” Eberle, 103, of WaKeeney, KS, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, at Trego County-Lemke ...
07/30/2026

Catherine “Katie” Eberle, 103, of WaKeeney, KS, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, at Trego County-Lemke Memorial Hospital Long Term Care, surrounded by the love and memories of a life well lived. She was born on June 22, 1923, in Trego County, KS, to John and Thresia (Augustine) Weber, Sr.

On September 23, 1941, she married Alfred “Fritz” Eberle at St. Mary Catholic Church in Ellis, KS. Together they shared nearly 31 years of marriage before Fritz preceded her in death on July 14, 1972. Following Fritz's passing, Katie continued farming south of Ogallah until 1976, when she moved to WaKeeney. There she built a new chapter of her life while continuing to devote herself to her family, faith, and community.

After moving to WaKeeney, Katie worked at Robert's Plant & Flower, Trego County-Lemke Memorial Hospital, and Trego-WaKeeney State Bank. Throughout the years, she found creative ways to help support her growing family. She made beautiful wedding flowers, baked countless wedding cakes, and prepared homemade noodles for local grocery stores, continuing her work until retiring at the remarkable age of 90. When she first began baking wedding cakes in 1951, times were difficult, and she could not afford cake pans. Instead, she resourcefully baked cakes in various-sized cardboard boxes, a testament to her determination, ingenuity, and unwavering work ethic.

Katie found great joy in cooking and baking for those she loved, expressing her care through every meal and homemade treat. Her kitchen was often the heart of the home, where family gathered, stories were shared, and love was served in abundance. She made countless wedding and birthday cakes for family and friends, generously sharing her talents and helping create treasured memories that will live on for generations. Her creative hands also lovingly crocheted two afghans for each of her fourteen children and one for every grandchild and great-grandchild, leaving each with a lasting reminder of her love.

She was deeply committed to serving her community. For many years, Katie volunteered with the Walk-A-Thon for Health Trego/Gove County and was a steadfast supporter of the rural fire department, always willing to lend a helping hand wherever she was needed. She was a past member of the Better Farm Homes Club of Ogallah, the VFW Auxiliary of WaKeeney, the Fraternal Order of Eagles Auxiliary of WaKeeney, and the Daughters of Isabella in Ellis. Her generous spirit and willingness to serve touched countless lives.

Katie was a faithful member of Christ the King Catholic Church, where she belonged to the Altar Rosary Society and devoted more than 30 years to caring for and beautifying her parish. She lovingly sewed church banners, washed and ironed altar linens, cared for the flowers and plants, organized candles, and assisted with countless details throughout the liturgical seasons. One of her greatest joys was seeing the church filled with beauty through the generosity of others, especially the year more than 900 donated daffodils adorned the sanctuary, followed by Easter lilies and Christmas poinsettias in later years. She also treasured helping Fr. Joe Scheetz paint and decorate the home he purchased for his retirement, considering it one of her proudest accomplishments in service to her church.

Her Catholic faith was the cornerstone of her life and guided her every day. She never went to bed without her musical rosary playing, and it was not uncommon to find her quietly seated during the day with rosary beads in hand, offering prayers for her family, friends, and all those in need. Sunday mornings held a special place in her heart, as she treasured gathering with her family for coffee after Mass, sharing stories, laughter, and the simple blessing of being together.

Katie will be remembered for her generous heart, unwavering faith, remarkable work ethic, servant's spirit, and the unconditional love she so freely shared with everyone fortunate enough to know her.

Katie leaves behind a loving family who will forever cherish her memory, including her sons, LeRoy (Jacky) Eberle of WaKeeney, KS, Ken (Sherry) Eberle of Ellis, KS, Ron (Ellen) Eberle of Grainfield, KS, Mel (Gail) Eberle of Oakley, KS, Dennis (Marilyn) Eberle of WaKeeney, KS, Larry Eberle of WaKeeney, KS, and Terry (Kathy) Eberle of Cheyenne, WY; her daughters, Twila Bliss and her companion, Frank Kaiser, of WaKeeney, KS, Marilyn (Willie) Wildeman of WaKeeney, KS, Gloria Eberle and her companion, Ron Valigura, of Topeka, KS, Debbie (Mervyn) Sasso of Aurora, CO, and Bonnie (Bill) Windholz of WaKeeney, KS; her son-in-law, Floyd Weigel of WaKeeney, KS; 39 grandchildren; 97 great-grandchildren; 40 great-great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and dear friends whose lives were touched by her kindness and enduring presence.

She was preceded in death by her parents, John and Thresia Weber, Sr.; her husband, Alfred "Fritz" Eberle; her daughters, Sylvia (Victor) Kinderknecht and Linda Weigel; and her son-in-law, Glen Bliss.

Visitation will be held on Friday, July 31, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. at Christ the King Catholic Church, 412 N. 9th Street, WaKeeney, KS 67672. A Vigil Service will begin at 6:00 p.m., immediately followed by the Rosary.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, August 1, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Mary Catholic Church, 703 Monroe Street, Ellis, KS 67637. Burial will follow in St. Mary Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to Walk-A-Thon for Health Trego/Gove County, Trego County-Lemke Memorial Hospital Long Term Care, or Mass Intentions, and may be sent in care of Schmitt Funeral Home, 336 N. 12th Street, WaKeeney, KS 67672.

To share memories or leave condolences, please visit www.schmittfuneral.com.

View Catherine "Katie" Eberle's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

Linda Sue SturgeonLinda Sue Sturgeon, 77, of Oakley, Kansas, passed away on June 21, 2026, at Logan County Senior Living...
07/28/2026

Linda Sue Sturgeon

Linda Sue Sturgeon, 77, of Oakley, Kansas, passed away on June 21, 2026, at Logan County Senior Living in Oakley. She was born on July 28, 1948, in Emporia, Kansas, to Joseph Samuel Pogue and Betty Lou (Mishler) Pogue.

Linda spent her formative years in southeast Kansas. On February 26, 1967, she married William Dean Sturgeon in Garden City, Kansas. Together they shared more than 52 years of marriage before Bill's passing on July 19, 2019.

Throughout their married life, Linda and Bill lived in several communities, including Great Bend, Kansas City, Omaha, Grand Island, and Boelus, Nebraska. They later settled in Quinter, Kansas. Following her retirement, Linda moved to Independence, Kansas, while Bill remained in Quinter for work before eventually returning to Boelus, Nebraska. Though they maintained separate residences during the last several years of Bill's life, they remained married.

For more than 35 years, Linda worked in the eye care field as a paraoptometric technician. She was highly respected for her professionalism, knowledge, and care for others and served several terms as president of the Nebraska Paraoptometric Technician Association. She also enjoyed selling Mary Kay, Tupperware, and Amway products and developed many lasting friendships.

Linda was a woman of deep faith and an active member of the Church of God. She enjoyed reading her Bible, listening to music, reading, cooking, sharing meals with family and friends, and spending time with her beloved Shih Tzu dogs. Above all, Linda cherished her family.

She is survived by her son, Harry William Sturgeon (Jonathan) of Park, Kansas; her daughter, Jennifer Lynn (Richard) Zentz of Grand Island, Nebraska; her grandchildren, Brittany (Jon) Heminger, Brianna Zentz, Brooke Zentz, Briley (Cyle) McCleary, and Braeden Zentz; her great-grandchildren, Sean Heminger, Danyka Heminger, Jaxdyn Heminger, Jhettsyn Heminger, Archer Settle, Elijah Settle, Lincoln Settle, Hayden Lopez, and Jameson McCleary; her sisters, Sara Elizabeth Pogue of Nashville, Tennessee, and Virginia Jo (John) Smith of St. Augustine, Florida; and numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband, William Dean Sturgeon; her parents; her brother, Daniel Lewis Pogue; and her great-grandchild, Roman Lopez.

A memorial service will take place on August 1, 2026, at First Assembly of God Church in Independence, KS, at 10:30 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to the Linda Sue Sturgeon Memorial Fund and may be mailed to Schmitt Funeral Home, 901 South Main Street, Quinter, KS 67752.

To share memories or leave condolences, please visit www.schmittfuneral.com.

View Linda Sue Sturgeon's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

Mary Marlene FunkMary Marlene Funk, age 86, passed away on July 15, 2026, at Salina Regional Hospital in Salina, Kansas....
07/18/2026

Mary Marlene Funk

Mary Marlene Funk, age 86, passed away on July 15, 2026, at Salina Regional Hospital in Salina, Kansas.

Marlene was born on January 25, 1940, in Hays, Kansas, to Paul Levi and Ursula "Tot" (McGaughey) Wilson.

On October 3, 1959, she married the love of her life, Robert Keith "Jigger" Funk, in McCracken, Kansas. Together, they built a loving home in WaKeeney, where they raised their three daughters and shared a lifetime of family, faith, and service.

After graduating from beauty school, Marlene devoted herself to her family, embracing her role as a wife and mother with unwavering love and dedication. Yet her caring spirit reached far beyond her home. She believed deeply in serving others and generously gave her time and talents to her church and community throughout her life.

A faithful member of the United Methodist Church in both WaKeeney and McCracken, Marlene taught Bible classes and Sunday School, helping to nurture the faith of countless children and families. She was a proud member of the Order of the Eastern Star for 64 years, as well as the Red Hat Society, PEO, Joint Efforts Club, and Frieda's Alley Rats. Her commitment to her community was evident through her many volunteer efforts. She served for three years as chair of both the Trego County Fair Parade and the WaKeeney Halloween Parade, was a dedicated Girl Scout leader, volunteered with Meals on Wheels, and lent a helping hand to many other community organizations whenever she was needed.

Marlene is lovingly remembered by her daughters, Anita Butler and husband Jeff, of McCracken; Shari Funk, of WaKeeney; and Kelly Weber and husband Mike, of Ness City; her grandchildren, Ursula Pohlman (Nate), Spencer White (Whitney), Levi White (Rachel), and Mason Coats (Dakota); her great-grandchildren, Rowan White; Kailynn and Layton White; and Blakely Coats; her twin sister, Anna Arlene Gilbert, of McCracken; and her sister-in-law, Verlene Braden.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Paul and Ursula "Tot" Wilson; her beloved husband, Bob Funk; her brother, Jack Wilson; and her brother-in-law, Babe Gilbert.

A memorial service will be held at the United Methodist Church in WaKeeney on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, at 10:00 a.m., with Pastor Jim Satran and Rev. Bob Clemens officiating. Burial of Marlene's cremated remains will follow at 1:00 p.m. in the McCracken Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Shriners Hospitals for Children or the United Methodist Church in WaKeeney and may be sent in care of Schmitt Funeral Home, 336 N. 12th Street, WaKeeney, KS 67672.

Memories and words of comfort may be shared with the family by signing the guest book at www.schmittfuneral.com.

View Mary Marlene Funk's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

💙 Free Year of Weekly Grief Support Emails 💙Grief doesn't end after the funeral, and neither does our care.At Schmitt Fu...
07/18/2026

💙 Free Year of Weekly Grief Support Emails 💙

Grief doesn't end after the funeral, and neither does our care.

At Schmitt Funeral Homes, we offer a free one-year subscription to GriefSteps® weekly grief support emails. Each week's message is designed to provide encouragement, comfort, and practical support as you navigate the journey of grief.

Learn more or sign up today:
🌐 https://www.schmittfuneral.com/grief-resources

Our Grief Resources page also includes information for families, children, caregivers, and links to trusted grief support organizations—all available free of charge.
Please share this post with anyone who may find comfort in these resources. ❤️

For people grieving the death of a loved one, Schmitt Funeral Homes offers resources and tools available to assist you in your healing journey.

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336 N 12th Street
Wakeeney, KS
67672

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Monday 8:30am - 5pm
Tuesday 8:30am - 5pm
Wednesday 8:30am - 5pm
Thursday 8:30am - 5pm
Friday 8:30am - 5pm

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