What's New (past 30 days): Rossville Kansas area genealogy

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Obituary- McGinnis, Dorothy Dorothy Mae Mcginnis October 4, 1925 — October 1, 2023 Dorothy died October 1, 2023, at the Rossville Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center. She was born October 4, 1925 in Mercy Hospital, Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Her parents were Nicholas B. Weber and Florence Mae (Bickford) Weber. Dorothy's paternal grandparents were Paul Pfeiffer and Mary Magdalena Redlinger who sailed from Antwerp, Germany in 1847 on the American ship "Charlemagne". They arrived in New Orleans, traveled by steamship up the Mississippi River, then by wagon train to German Township, Keokuk County, Iowa. Dorothy had one younger sister and a multitude of aunts, uncles and cousins. Dorothy spent her childhood in Harper, Iowa where she graduated from St. Elizabeth's High School. She attended TWA Airline school in San Francisco, then worked as a teletype operator during WWII. Dorothy met her husband Owen L. Weaver in Kansas City. They married January 27, 1948 in Topeka. She worked several years as a VA Hospital secretary in Topeka, then became a stay-at-home mother raising two daughters. Owen died suddenly Sep 26, 1967. After his death, Dorothy worked 25 years as a receptionist for the Kansas Neurological Institute. She retired in 1992. Dorothy married Harold McGinnis Oct 31, 1985, in Topeka. He died Nov 9, 2001. She was preceded in death by her sister, Marilyn Davis (Marlin). Survivors include her daughters Linda J. Weaver (Anna Marie Tetuan), Topeka, Deanna Marlene Solimine (Victor), Austin, TX, beloved grandson, Jorden Tetuan (Mary Smith), Topeka, and nieces, Joyce Hartman (Steve), Wichita, and Elaine Hershberger (Troy), Ligonier, Indiana. Dorothy was a member of Christ the King Catholic Church. Per her request, she will be cremated with and no services.	Dorothy Mae Weber Weaver McGinnis	2 Jan 2026
Obituary- Stich, Randall Randy Ray Stich July 14, 1971 — September 27, 2023 07/14/1971 Randall "Randy" Ray Stich, 52, had his joyous 'homecoming' with Jesus on Wednesday, September 27, 2023. Randy, formerly of Topeka, Kansas was at home the past 9 years at Rossville Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center in Rossville, Kansas. He was born July 14, 1971, in Topeka, Kansas, the son of Ronnie and Linda (Hooper) Stich. He graduated from Highland Park High School. After graduation, he attended Highland Jr. College and earned his Associates Degree. He was a member of the Boy Scouts of America, a previous member of Oakland United Methodist Church in Topeka, and later became a member of Highland Heights Christian Church, Tecumseh, KS. Several years ago Randy was an active member of the Sonflower Emmaus Community and touched many lives through that ministry. Randy loved Jesus and displayed that love and his faith to all the people whose lives intersected with his. He enjoyed visiting with people and made friends everywhere he went. Randy would often ask people how they were and ask about their family rather than focusing on his own health issues and concerns. He loved spending time with his family and especially enjoyed traveling to Wisconsin to visit relatives there. He also enjoyed playing on the church softball league, camping, and playing games such as UNO, Farkle and Bingo. His favorite snack was M&M's and he was an avid Green Bay Packers fan! Randy leaves behind his father, Ron (Gail) Stich, two sisters, Melissa (Wayne) McCall and Kathryn "Katy" Stich; niece, Jessica McCall, nephew, Gregory (Bailey) McCall, two step-siblings, Michelle (Darnell) Dixon and Anthony Giordono and many beloved uncles, aunts, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his mother, Linda K. Stich and his grandparents. A celebration of Randy's life will be held from 2:00 pm - 4:00pm on Saturday, November 11, 2023, at Penwell Gabel Funeral Home, 1321 SW 10th Avenue, Topeka, Kansas 66604. Memories will be shared by friends and family at 2:30pm. In his honor, memorial contributions are suggested and may be made to Prairie Wind Hospice, Rossville Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center, or a ministry or organization of your choice that reminds you of Randy.	Randall Ray (Randy) Stich	2 Jan 2026
Obituary- Perry, Michael Michael C. Perry, 60, passed away Sunday, August 20, 2023 at his home in Topeka. Mike was born July 31, 1963, in Topeka, the son of George J. and Nadine M. Kolde Perry. Mike was raised in St. Marys and graduated from St. Marys High School in 1982. He entered the Kansas Army National Guard in in 1982 and retired as a Master Sergeant after 38 years. Mike worked full time with the guards as a Senior Maintenance Analyst. He was an AVID KU and Chief’s Fan. Mike and Tammy Engelken were united in marriage on Nov. 28, 1992. They later divorced. Mike was preceded in death by his parents. Survivors include a daughter Kylie (Cody) Lyda, Gardner, son Mitchell Ralph, Topeka; his brother, William (Trina) Perry, Topeka; sisters, Judy (Roy) Muckenthaler, Sandy (Clay )Winters, Nancy Lister all of St. Marys, Mary Kaye Siebert, Olathe, and Lori Westerdale, Rossville; and a grandson, Dorian, his many cherished nieces and nephews along with his close friends. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 A.M. Saturday, August 26, 2023, at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in St. Marys. Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery, St. Marys. The family will receive friends from 5:00 until 7:00 P.M. Friday, August 25, 2023, at Piper Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to the Kansas National Guard Museum and sent in care of the funeral home.	Michael C (Mike) Perry	2 Jan 2026
Obituary- Holzmeister, Richard 2 See file #1 for full transcription	Richard James (Dick) Holzmeister	2 Jan 2026
Obituary- Holzmeister, Richard 1 Richard “Dick” James Holzmeister, 88, of Lawrence, KS, passed away on Wednesday, August 16, 2023 at Lawrence Memorial Hospital. A memorial mass will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, September 1, 2023, at Corpus Christi Catholic Church in Lawrence. A rosary will be recited at the church at 10:00 a.m. prior to the service. Dick was born on October 8, 1934, in Topeka, KS, the son of Adam George and Loretta (Murphy) Holzmeister. He graduated from Hayden High School in 1952 and from Washburn University in 1956 with a Bachelor of Business Administration degree. He served his country retiring as a Captain in the United States Air Force. Upon leaving the Air Force he began his career as Vice President and branch manager at Capital Federal for 36 years until retiring in 1996. After retirement, he worked for the US Census and as an AARP Tax Aide. Dick’s family was a founding family of Corpus Christi Catholic Church. He served on the Lawrence Board of Education and the Lawrence Memorial Hospital Board and was an active member of the Breakfast Optimist Club, Knights of Columbus, American Legion, Elks Club, and Sigma Phi Epsilon Fraternity. He was active in the development of fastpitch softball as a member of Lawrence Girls Fastpitch Softball. Dick was a kind and caring person, a faithful and loving husband, he married Marjorie Jean Nadeau on October 8, 1960, in Topeka KS. His love and compassion was demonstrated throughout his 59 years of marriage. His unconditional love and respect for her was demonstrated as he faithfully supported her daily during her battle with cancer. She preceded him in death on July 16, 2019. He was a true sports fan actively involved with his children’s activities, as scorekeeper and statistician for baseball and softball teams, or treasure for various groups. He was an avid supporter of the Kansas City Royals and the Kansas Jayhawks, volunteering as an official at the Kansas Relays for many years. He loved spending time with his family be it vacation road trips in the family station wagon, holiday ski trips, family gatherings or graduations. Dick was an active member of Breakfast Optimist Club, a lifetime member, and past president. He was recognized as Optimist of the Year for his service to the club. In the early years he enjoyed the various club outings, be it canoe float trips, outings at the lake or trips to the Royals games. Every year he could be found at a grocery store parking lot selling Christmas trees as part of the clubs annual fund raiser. He supported the clubs work in the Lawrence schools volunteering for various programs. In 2001 he was recognized as a Friend of Education for his work at East Heights Elementary school. A quiet, kind and caring man he will be greatly missed. Survivors include their daughter, Jill (Steve) Patton of Lawrence, KS; three sons: Jeffery (Lea Ann) Holzmeister of Tempe, AZ, Scott (Deborah) Holzmeister of Gilbert, AZ, and Jon (Michelle) Holzmeister of Overland Park, KS; and 15 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren. The family suggests memorial contributions in Dick’s name may be made to Lawrence Breakfast Optimist, and may be sent in care of Warren-McElwain Mortuary (120 W. 13th Street, Lawrence, KS 66044). For details on the service or to share condolences, more information is available at warrenmcelwain.com .	Richard James (Dick) Holzmeister	2 Jan 2026
Obituary- Seitz, Albert Albert Seitz Passes Away Albert James Seitz, 85, of Ottawa, Kansas, passed away Monday, August 7, 2023, at Rock Creek of Ottawa. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 A.M., Monday, August 14, 2023, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Ottawa, Kansas. Rosary will be said at 10:00 A.M., prior to Mass. Visitation will be held from 3:00 – 5:00 P.M., Sunday, August 13, 2023, at Dengel & Son Mortuary, Ottawa. Interment Highland Cemetery, Ottawa, Kansas. Albert was born on Wednesday, October 6, 1937 in St. Marys, Kansas, the son of Bernard and Lena (Pageler) Seitz. He lived in St. Marys, Kansas moving to Ottawa in 1968. He then lived in Lake St. Louis, Missouri from 1989 to 1991 before returning to Ottawa. Albert graduated from St. Marys High School with the class of 1955. On April 11, 1959, Albert was united in marriage to the love of his life Linda Ann McCoy (RHS 1958) in St. Mary's, Kansas. She preceded him in death on September 5, 2013. Albert served in the United States Army and Kansas National Guard from 1959 to 1967. He served in California and transferred to the Kansas National Guard. His freshman year in high school he took a job peeling potatoes and later working at the St. Marys Coop gas station to help his family pay bills. He then began his career in the telecommunications industry with various jobs from lineman to work with McGrath Engineering Company converting telephones from crank to dial. He worked his way up to customer service manager with Contel and retired in 1998. Once retired, he worked at Prestige Real Estate. Albert was a member of the Sacred Heart Parish; Warren Black Post 60, American Legion of Ottawa; Ottawa Lodge 803, Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks; and Knights of Columbus Council 657 of St. Marys. He enjoyed golfing, playing cards, camping, Kansas State Wildcats, watching kids' sports and traveling with family. He especially loved spending time with family and friends. Albert was preceded in death by his parents; wife Linda; brother William Seitz; and sister Mary Denton. Survivors include daughters, Sharon Van Horn and husband Gene of Wellsville, Kansas, Ronda Seiwert and husband Paul of Colwich, Kansas, and Brenda Wray and husband John of Ottawa; sister Joan Sebring of Rossville, Kansas; sister in law Lois Lacock (Tom) (RHS 62) of Rossville, Kansas; nine grandchildren; fourteen great grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends. The family suggests memorial contributions to Sacred Heart School, Ottawa Optimist Junior Golf, or Santa Maria del Mexicano (granddaughter Katie's mission work) c/o Dengel & Son Mortuary, 235 S. Hickory, Ottawa, Kansas 66067.	Albert James Seitz	2 Jan 2026
Obituary- Phenix, Douglas 2 See file #1 for full transcription	Douglas Phenix	2 Jan 2026
Obituary- Phenix, Douglas 1 Reverend Douglas Phenix, a beloved and respected figure, passed away peacefully on June 24, 2023, in Topeka, Kansas. Born on December 23, 1941, in Kirkcaldy, Scotland. He was a guiding light and a pillar of strength for all who knew him. Douglas was preceded in death by parents William and Mary Phenix, and first wife, Ann. He is survived by his sister Janice (Sam), former wife and longtime companion Gloria, sons David (Gina) and Duncan (Jamie), Grandson Ian (Ashley), and great-grandson Harrison. Douglas attended school at Glasgow University in Scotland. receiving an Honors degree in chemistry and a Divinity degree. He earned a Masters Degree in Theology from Union Theological Seminary in New York City with the help of a Fullbright Fellowship. He then became a Church of Scotland minister serving three congregations. In 1980 he immigrated with wife Ann, and sons David and Duncan to the United States. He served several congregations. In St. Peter Minnesota at Union Presbyterian, Fairlplain Presbyterian in Benton Harbor Michigan, and spent the later part of his career as a minister at Potwin Presbyterian Church in Topeka, KS and also serving Presbyterian churches in Pratt, Holton, and Rossville/Delia KS. Throughout his life, Reverend Phenix was dedicated to serving his community and spreading the message of love and compassion. His unwavering commitment to his faith and his congregations touched countless lives, inspiring many to follow in his footsteps. He was active in the Interfaith Ministerial Association, Doorstep, and Mother to Mother. He had a life-long interest in issues of science and religion and was active in Kansas Citizens for Science. During the conflict over teaching evolution in Kansas public schools. Reverend Phenix testified in front of the Kansas Board of Education, and the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) sent a film to Potwin Church crew from the nightly news program "Newswatch" to interview him. He loved music and was an accomplished pianist and accordion player. He had a beautiful bass voice and was active in the St. Peter Community Choir and the Topeka Festival Singers. He was an Associate Member of the Piano Technicians' Guild. Despite the challenges he faced with Parkinson's Disease, Reverend Phenix remained steadfast and continued to make a difference in the lives of those around him. His resilience and courage in the face of adversity served as an example to all who knew him. Reverend Phenix's legacy will live on through the numerous lives he impacted and the memories shared by his friends, family, and loved ones. His passing is a great loss, but his memory will continue to inspire and uplift all who were fortunate enough to know him. As we remember Reverend Douglas Phenix, let us honor his life and his unwavering dedication to his faith and his community. His spirit will forever be a beacon of light, guiding us toward a brighter and more compassionate world. A memorial service will be held at Potwin Presbyterian Church, 400 SW Washburn in Topeka on Sunday July 30, 2023 at 1:00PM.. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Kansas Citizens for Science or Midland Hospice.	Douglas Phenix	2 Jan 2026
Obituary- Foster, David David John Foster July 2, 1944 – December 9, 2024 David John Foster, 80, of Rossville, Kansas, died on Monday, December 9th, 2024 at Midland Hospice House in Topeka surrounded by his family. David was born July 2nd, 1944, in Topeka, Kansas, the son of Joseph F. and M. Ellen Dale Foster. During David’s youth he grew up on a farm south of Topeka. He attended Washburn Rural High School his Freshman year. After his family moved to a farm north of Rossville, he attended Rossville High School class of 1962. David graduated from Pittsburg State University in 1967. David served in the United States Air Force from 1967-1970. David married Virginia Kay Rezac on December 27th, 1967, at the Rossville Presbyterian Church. She survives at their home. Survivors include his two sons and grandchildren: Andrew Foster (Jennifer), grandchildren Elizabeth, Morgan (Hunter), and one great-granddaughter Hadley; Adam Foster (Laci), grandchildren Kerrigan, Ryder, and Bodie. Other survivors include his brother Charles Foster, Delia and his sister Teresa Foster, Topeka. David was preceded in death by his parents and his brothers Fred Foster and Robert Foster, and a deeply loved nephew Alan Foster who lived and worked summers on the Foster Farm while he was in high school. During high school and college summers David worked for many area farmers. After being discharged from the Air Force, David first farmed with his father-in-law and later started his own farming operation. David loved raising cattle. In the summer he enjoyed driving around in his pick-up with his dog Pokey checking his cattle and pastures. David promoted agriculture in many ways. He was on boards for the St. Marys Farmers Union, the Shawnee County Soil Conservation, and the Cross Creek Watershed District. David had an extraordinary work ethic. He spent countless hours driving tractors, checking irrigation, and feeding cows. David could fix anything. He was no stranger to welding, fabricating, and turning wrenches. David would rather work on improving his farm than anything else, which included using the caterpillar dozer to build terraces, ponds, and waterways. David taught his sons about raising cattle and growing crops. He was really proud of their farm operation and enjoyed sharing his passion with those he loved. David seldom took time off, but when he did he enjoyed hunting, fishing, and chasing off trespassers. David liked to snow ski and taught his sons, grandkids, and many other kids how to ski. David liked to travel and family vacations were spent camping in the northern and western United States. His favorite vacations were two trips to Alaska. David loved a simple life and being outdoors. He never liked crowds. He enjoyed his time in the countryside. Graveside services are pending and will be announced at a later date. Memorial contributions in David’s memory may be made to either Jimmie Lillard Post No 31 of the American Legion, Midland Care, or to Rossville FFA and may be sent in care of Piper Funeral Home, 714 Maple St., St. Marys, KS 66536.	David John Foster	28 Dec 2025
Obituary- Jacobson, Donald J. Donald J. Jacobson ROSSVILLE - Donald J. (“Jake” and “Ole Papa”) Jacobson, 90, passed away on Tuesday, July 1, 2025, at Stormont-Vail Hospital surrounded by his family. Donald was born on April 12, 1935, in Topeka to John and Catherine (O’Connor) Jacobson. He grew up in the Delia community and attended school in both Sacred Heart and Rossville High School, graduating in 1953. He met Genevieve Andrick while attending high school in Rossville and they were later married on September 11, 1954, in St. Marys. After high school, Donald served his country honorably in the Kansas National Guard. Donald worked for a short time as a linemen for the Santa Fe Railroad before taking a permanent job at Goodyear Tire and Rubber factory in Topeka. He worked there for over 40 years, including many years as an area manager in the Banbury department. After retirement, he pursued one of his bucket list dreams and took a role as an usher for Notre Dame football games. For over 16 years, Donald made the trek to South Bend, IN, and never missed a single home game. He started out at Gate D taking tickets but was promoted to the university level suites where he rubbed elbows with several celebrities including Rudy, Regis Philbin, Muhammad Ali, Jon Bon Jovi, Joe Montana, Chris Christie, Tommy Lasorda and many others. Donald loved to run and participated in many marathons including the New York, Chicago, Dallas, Kansas City, Pikes Peak, Las Vegas, and several other notable races. Donald was a devoted family man and loved to spend time with his kids and grandkids. He was seen at most of their sporting and school events and coached sports for many kids teams. He and Genevieve opened their home to a foreign-exchange student, Macy, from Brazil, who they considered like a daughter. Donald and Genevieve loved to travel, as a couple and with their children, and fondly remember their trips to places like Ireland, several Caribbean islands, London, Wales, and Scotland. Donald is survived by his wife, Genevieve of Rossville, two sons, David (Connie) Jacobson of Topeka and Thomas (Angela) Jacobson of Lawrence; daughter, Robin (Jeff) Lampe of Topeka; 9 grandchildren, Gabriel (Cindy), Caitrin, Lydia, Locke, Emily, Joe, Dalton (Bailey), Darby, and Sam; and 3 great-grandchildren, Presley, Emma, and Tristan. He is also survived by 2 siblings: sisters, Dorothy Lloyd and Betty Lambotte. Donald was preceded in death by his parents, siblings, Bobby Jacobson, Johnny Jacobson, Kay Wild, Rosemary Pauley, and Billy Jacobson, daughter, Debi Jacobson, and grandson, Dusty Bronaugh. A funeral mass will be offered for Donald at 10:00 AM on Friday, July 11, at Most Pure Heart of Mary Catholic Church, 3601 SW 17th St., Topeka, KS 66604 with a luncheon following mass for family friends and guests. Private family burial will take place at Rossville Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to either the Capper Foundation or to Helping Hands Humane Society and may be left in care of Piper Funeral Home, 714 Maple St., St. Marys, KS 66536.	Donald J (Jake) Jacobson	28 Dec 2025