James Anthony “Jimmy” Houdashelt, age 60, resident of Fredonia, KS passed away Saturday, March 15, 2025, at the Candle Rock Nursing Home in Fredonia. He was born July 16, 1964, in Girard, KS, the son of Jack and Shirly Simon Houdashelt. He graduated from Fort Scott High School with the class of 1982. Jimmy worked in construction for several years until his disability.
Survivors include his mother, Shirley Harding; a brother, Randy Houdashelt; and several nieces, nephews, aunts, and uncles.
He was preceded in death by his grandparents.
There was cremation. The family will receive friends from 1:00 until 3:00 PM Saturday, March 29th, at the Cheney Witt Carriage House, 301 S. Main St
Memorials are suggested to the Jimmy Houdashelt Memorial Fund and may be left in care of the Cheney Witt Chapel, PO Box 347, 201 S. Main St., Fort Scott, KS 66701. Words of remembrance may be submitted online at cheneywitt.com.
SparkWheel needs YOU! Join us on Saturday, May 3rd, at Woodland Hills Golf Course for an exciting 4-person scramble tournament to support students in southeast Kansas, including those at Fort Scott Middle School and Fort Scott High School.
How can you help?
– Grab your team & hit the greens! Scan the QR code to register now and secure your spot.
– Not a golfer? You can still make an impact! Sponsorship opportunities are available at various levels—help us change lives while gaining great exposure for your business or organization.
Contact janelle.martin@sparkwheel.org to learn more and get involved today! Let’s make a difference—one round at a time!
Regi Casner is back to teaching fitness classes in Fort Scott once again, after a hiatus during the pandemic.
Her classes are at the Buck Run Community Center and also in Mound City, where she lives.
“I am teaching at Buck Run on Mondays and Fridays. I teach a 10:15 a.m. stretch class and a 12:15 p.m. Align/Pilates class.
“The stretch class moves slow and the Align/Pilates class flows through yoga poses with some strength work and Pilates blended in,” she said.
“The target audience age is 40-60s. I have a couple in the 30’s. I was hoping the noon class would be helpful for gals still working, and taking a lunch break.”
She will offer a free introductory class in April and early May.
About the Instructor
Casner “has taught fitness classes for a long time, completed a ton of training over the years, and wellness is my career and lifestyle,” she said.
“I first fell in love with group fitness when I took a step class in college(Pittsburg State University). It was love at the first step and downbeat.”
“The Fitness Nook was started because I believe small towns also deserve great fitness classes and the opportunity to sculpt, stretch and sweat together! “
“I love teaching group classes for many reasons. My top three are: 1. seeing people show up for themselves, and then realize than can do more than they think they can… and then doing it. And doing it again. It’s more than the mountain climber or plank. It is about showing up. 2. Sweating together is just downright awesome, especially when the music and company is good. 3. Helping people feel better in their bodies.”
“I’ve been married to Mat for almost 30 years, we have four grown adult children and one granddaughter (all of the above are my favorites). Besides the studio in Mound City, I work as the Wellness Coordinator at Johnson County Community College in Overland Park, and teach fitness in Fort Scott.”
“My own personal fav workouts are: a strong yoga class, and a Pilates/Barre class-with some decent weight work included—and a great playlist. “
“I really do enjoy burpees, I don’t like mountain climbers (even though we almost always do mountain climbers). I love jumping jacks and backbends, I don’t enjoy twists, esp. twists in chair pose.”
If interested in classes, please send her a message
“And if you were interested until you read the words: burpees, mountain climbers, and/or jumping jacks, come to stretch class. Those words and actions are never mentioned there.”
William (Bill) D. Hall, age 83, of Ft. Scott passed away on March 14, 2025, at Mercy Hospital in Pittsburg, KS. He was born on March 25, 1941, in Ft. Scott the son of Bill Hall and Margie Northrop.
Bill graduated from Ft. Scott High School, Ft. Scott Community College and Pittsburg State University. He also proudly served four years in the United States Navy.
His working years were that of a carpenter.
Bill gave about 20 seasons as a volunteer youth baseball coach. Players called this time, “Hall Ball.”
He liked the outdoors too, especially hunting and fishing.
In retirement, he enjoyed the activities of grandkids; spent countless hours at the community garden; and, participated with the VFW Post No. 1165 Honor Guard.
Survivors include two sons; Mark of Ft. Scott and Mike (Stephanie) of Olathe, KS. Also surviving are three grandchildren; Devin, Zane and Kinley. He was preceded in death by his wife, Sue, and his parents.
There was cremation. Rev. Chuck Russell will conduct memorial services at 10:30 am Wednesday, March 19th, at the Cheney Witt Chapel.
Interment will take place at a later date in the U. S. National Cemetery, Fort Scott.
The family will receive friends from 5:00 until 7:00 Tuesday evening, March 18th, at the funeral home.
Memorials are suggested to Youth Baseball and may be left in care of the Cheney Witt Chapel, PO Box 347, 201 S. Main St., Fort Scott, KS 66701. Words of remembrance may be submitted online at cheneywitt.com.
When I awaken in the winter mornings, the first thing I do is make my way to the living room to see what’s happening inside the firebox. After eight sleepy hours I don’t usually see any flames, however, I can see an orange glow and that’s a good sign. I then open the fireplace door, grab the custom-designed poker and stir the embers. I know it won’t be hard to get a blazing fire going again. This morning chore is vital during the cold-weather season. If I don’t keep stoking the fire, it will eventually go out, the embers will turn to ashes, and the house will get cold (and so will I).
Every time I stir the embers, I think of the letter Apostle Paul wrote to his young protégé Timothy: “That is why I would remind you to stir up (rekindle the embers of, fan the flame of, and keep burning) the [gracious] gift of God, [the inner fire] that is in you by means of the laying on of my hands [with those of the elders at your ordination] (2 Timothy 1:6 AMP). Even though Paul is imprisoned, lonely, and sensing that his opportunities for preaching are about to be terminated, he wants to encourage and strengthen Timothy.
This loving and important letter to Timothy is for all believers that need to be reminded to fan the flame of discipleship to keep it burning hot. Should we wake up one morning and realize all we have left inside are a few embers, don’t throw in the towel and give up! Spring into action and stir yourself up in the Lord. Embers form when a fire has only partially burnt the wood and is still viable. If there are embers, then there’s a sure hope for a renewed fire which is necessary for living a holy and loving life.
There is a daily need in the hearts of all believers to keep the fire of commitment and loyalty to Christ blazing hot. Fire changes things. You can have hard kernels of popcorn and starve to death. But when you add fire to those seemingly worthless kernels, you end up with a tasty snack. We need to guard against complacency in our love, obedience, and worship to God. Each believer is responsible for fanning his/her own spiritual flame. No one else can do it for us. It’s our baby so we need to rock it!
Embers are small glowing hot lumps of wood in a dying fire. The key is the fact that the fire is not completely out. Being in the “process of dying” is not the same as dead. When we truly desire to live like Jesus, we’re assured that a rip-roaring fire can be revived from the embers. How can we tell if we’re on fire or not? We can use Jesus’ own words to evaluate our spiritual status: “And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength. This is the first commandment. And the second, like it, is this: You shall love your neighbor as yourself. There is no other commandment greater than these” (Mark 12:30 NKJV). In other words, poke yourself and see if love comes out.
God’s Word is like the believer’s custom-designed poker. Everyday we need to read and study God’s love letters and allow the Holy Spirit to poke around in our heart to see if we have a blazing fire or a hot lump. God wants us to be red-hot Christ followers, but He loves to work with smoldering hot lumps in order to make them burning hot and productive again.
The Key: I’d rather be a hot lump than a cold bump on a log.
The past year we have provided county-wide support and grant funding to Fort Scott area, Bronson, and Mapleton. We have been working with The City of Bronson and SEKRPC on a CDBG grant as well. This year we will continue that work and include Uniontown to the list. Last year, we were awarded several county wide multiyear grants and ALMOST $4 MILLION in regional grants that directly benefit the citizens of Fort Scott.
Our mission drives our work: to increase access to physical activity, healthy food, promote commercial tobacco cessation, enhance quality of life and encourage economic growth.
We continue to offer hyper local workforce development (in partnership with SEK KANSASWorks) once a week until we can secure additional funding, a full-time community health worker, and business technical assistance in house daily.
We are very excited to start a new small business grant program, the last grant program we had saw over $3 million in capital injection in the community. Details will come later. We will have the resources from CML Collective https://www.cmlcollective.com/ and Create Campaign https://www.createcampaignks.com/to implement programs and offer resources for our small business community. I have also been asked to speak at the Network Kansas 4th Annual Conference in Wichita in May.
HBCAT SPECIFIC UPDATES
Community Health Needs Assessment and Business Retention and Expansion Survey (BRES)
o *This surveys and assessments are important to inform HBCAT work, use of resources, and funding mechanisms.*
o We are working on our Community Health Needs Assessment and BRES. As the County Economic Development, I implemented the same survey in 2019. We called the City to see if they would like to participate with us on this year’s survey as a way to build relationships with local businesses.
o HBCAT will create a report and collaborate with the city to present findings to the commission. This is a service HBCAT is providing free of charge.
o We used the same survey and template as we used in 2019 (provided by Craig at the Dept of Commerce!) and we will be able to compare data. For instance, we can compare these 2019 business ratings:
o HBCAT is working with the Health in All Policy Subcommittee (City of Fort Scott, HBCAT, Bronson) on the Community Health Needs Assessment.
o If you are interested, this was part of the very first country-wide comprehensive strategic plan we did in 2019:
I still have the strategic plan if you are interested in seeing it
$250-$300K Blue Cross Blue Shield Pathways to Healthy Kansas
This grant provided HBCAT $100,000 in coordination dollars for two years and up to an additional $200,000 for the community.
Where the money is going:
Coordination Pathway – HBCAT
$100,000 over two years (HBCAT providing 50% match for coordinator salary)
Coordination and planning activities such as regular engagement with technical assistance providers, peer communities and in-person training sessions.
Community engagement and leadership strategies.
Evaluation reporting and data collection.
Package: Economic Stability: Social Entrepreneurship Supports
The Healthy Bourbon County Action Team and Rural Community Partners
o Business Development
o Grant Range: $5,000-$25,000
Match Expected: No
o Champions:
Jody Love/Justin Miles HBCAT
Mary Wyatt, City of Fort Scott
(No financial commitment expected from the City)
Jennifer Simhiser, LHEAT member
Package: Education Access and Quality: Farm to School
USD 234
o Community Green Farms at the Highschool
o Grant Range: $5,000-$25,000
Match Expected: No
o Champions:
Destry Brown, Superintendent
Jenny Layes, CHW
Package: Health Care Access and Quality:Health Related Social Needs
Girard Medical Center
o Fort Scott and Uniontown Rural Health Clinic
o Grant Range: $5,000-$25,000
Match Expected: No
o Champions:
Ruth Duling, CEO Girard Medical Center
Jenny Layes, CHW
Package: Neighborhood and Built Environment:Multimodal Transportation and Recreational Trails
City of Mapleton
o Grant Range: $5,000-$25,000
Match Expected: Yes, project costs will likely exceed funding available through this package
o Expand on Mapleton’s recreational trails
Champions:
Gregg Post, Friends of Mapleton
Debbie Potter, Friends of Mapleton
Jody Love, HBCAT
Package: Social and Community Context:Incubator Kitchen and Food Hub
The Kitchen C+C Incubator Kitchen
o Grant Range: $5,000-$50,000
Match Expected: Yes, funding or in-kind donation
o Provide incubator space for cottage food makers
o Champions:
Angela Simon, Co-Owner, The Kitchen C+C
Rachel French, Co-Owner, The Kitchen C+C
Bailey Lyons, Co-Owner, The Kitchen C+C
OTHER GRANTS, HBCAT PROVIDING A MATCH:
$302,166 KDHE Subaward of G2G EPA Grant
o Regional
$165,000 Kansas Health Foundation/Kansas Food Action Network Grant
o County Wide
$45,800 KDOC Rural Community Champion Grant
o Bronson Specially, working on CDBG grant to match
$50,000 Youth Substance Abuse and Prevention Grant
o County Wide Schools
There are a couple smaller grants including:
o Health in All Policy Grant (County Wide)
o Community Health Needs Assessment Grant (County Wide)
o National Center on Healthy Housing Grant (Regional)
Rural Community Partners (RCP)
“A rising tide lifts all ships.” As a region we have now applied for and have been awarded $4million in grant funds in the last year. Rural Community Partners is our regional grassroots organization that blossomed out of the regional work with the University of Kansas Medical “COPE” program. It is housed within HBCAT, with Jody Love leading to drive the work and we serve as a fiscal agent. The RCP board includes Randy Robinson, Christina Pacheco, Darrell Pulliam, and Quentin Holmes. RCP has county coalitions in 4 counties, regional mentors, and the Small Business and Entrepreneurs Council (SBEC) which is made up of small businesses across the region.
Quick update on our work to date:
WE HAVE A NEW LOGO!! CHECK OUT OUR FACEBOOK!
Civic Engagement:
o -LHEATS are meeting regularly in 4 counties, each with their own budgets.
o -Bourbon and Crawford will finish out the COPE dollars in May and hopefully we will be able to implement our new EPA grant
o -Attending many conferences and events across the state and county, bringing along residents from each county.
Workforce Development:
o -We applied for an EPA Community Change Grant and was selected for $2.9million. We collaborated with 3 different workforce development agencies, 4 counties, and University of Kansas. We hope to start work in June.
Business Development:
o -The SBEC was working diligently on a regional survey. We found out that Commerce is working on the same effort. We are excited to see this happen and see it roll out and how we can build upon it.
o -Dare to Dream event was a success
o -The Small Business Mentorship Program has had clients and mentors across the region
o -HBCAT received a BCBS Pathways Grant that will financially support our small business and entrepreneurship efforts
Still in limbo is a $2.9million EPA grant due to uncertainty at the federal level. While our organization is not depending on the funding, our community and region can certainly benefit from it.
As the founding president and CEO, I am exceptionally proud of where we stand today—almost 10 years ago (next year!). I am forever grateful for the friendship and support of my dear friend, and then City of Fort Scott Economic Development Director, Heather Smith. Together, we co-wrote the first BCBS Pathways to Healthy Kansas Grant. While grants don’t necessarily create organizations, the Pathways grant was instrumental in helping us build the capacity to grow.
Special thanks to the HBCAT Board: Josh Jones (Chair), Kelly Perry, Kayla Boyd, Alex Barner, Lindsay Madison, Lucas Kelly and our team: Jenny Layes, Justin Miles, Aura Brillhart, Sherri Siebert, and Brett Dalton.
Our partners, funders and collaborators are ever growing and some of our current funders include: University of Kansas Medical, Kansas Department of Health and Environment, Centers for Disease Control, Environmental Protection Agency, National Center for Healthy Housing, Kansas Department of Commerce Office of Rural Prosperity, Kansas Department of Aging and Disability, Kansas Food Action Network, Kansas Health Foundation, Blue Cross and Blue Shield Pathways to Healthy Kansas, Sunflower Foundation
We will work to continue to grow our local, regional, state, and national networks. This intentional effort took much time, money, and travel but we have found the return on investment to be great. Among many accomplishments, we wanted to share a few highlights:
We have collaborated with Wichita State on a grant and resource hub for coalitions, be sure to check out the new website: https://elevatekansas.org/coalitions/
Jody has been nominated to the executive committee for the Governor’s Council on Wellness this year, and to serve as the Vice Chair next year
We have had one trip to Washington DC this year and have another planned in May
Looking forward to what 2025 brings!! (HINT: A new website for one!!) Please do not hesitate to reach out.
Governor Kelly Recognizes Melissa Etheridge, Others at Governor’s Arts Awards
TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly and the Kansas Arts Commission (KAC) today announced the recipients of the 2025 Kansas Governor’s Arts Awards during a ceremony held at the Topeka Zoo and Conservation Center. The event was focused on celebrating remarkable individuals, organizations and communities for their exceptional contributions and leadership in advancing the arts across Kansas.
Grammy and Oscar Award-winning musician Melissa Etheridge was named this year’s recipient of the prestigious Governor’s Award.
“There are many talented Kansans involved in creative work across our state, and we know that art enhances their lives and the lives of those around them,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “The people we recognized at the Governor’s Arts Awards tonight are using their talents and passions to strengthen communities all throughout Kansas and to enrich the culture of our great state.”
At the awards ceremony hosted by Wichita television personality Sierra Scott, 17 individuals and organizations were recognized for their work and efforts in elevating Kansas through arts and culture. Nominations for each award are thoroughly reviewed and chosen by a selection committee. The recipient for The Governor’s Award is chosen by Governor Kelly herself.
“Governor Kelly and I have had the privilege of learning about and witnessing the dedication of artists, organizations, advocates, communities and creative businesses located across every region of our state,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “The Kansas arts and culture community plays a significant role in our growing economy by enriching the quality of place we call home. This impressive group of awardees is most deserving of the spotlight, and the state looks forward to see these inspiring leaders continue to enhance the cultural landscape of Kansas.”
The 2025 Governor’s Award recipient has been inspiring fans around the world for decades. Beyond Etheridge’s chart-topping records and stirring live performances, the Leavenworth native is known as a tireless advocate of Kansas who champions local causes through hands-on service.
“Across the nation and world, people are connecting with Etheridge’s music and can see how she truly embodies the Kansas values of hard work, self-reliance and kindness,” Kansas Arts Commission Director Curtis Young said. “She takes all the things that make Kansas great and shares them with the world — and she regularly brings it back home to benefit communities through her generosity and spirit.”
This year’s award categories and recipients are:
Excellence in Artistic Achievement in Media Arts: Kiki Bush, Gypsum
Excellence in Artistic Achievement in Music: Bob McWilliams, Lawrence
Excellence in Artistic Achievement in Visual Arts: Shin-hee Chin, McPherson
Arts Advocacy: Brenda Meder, Hays
Arts Patron of the Year: Paul Dorrell, Roeland Park
Excellence in Arts Education: Tyler Dallis, Pratt
Excellence in the Arts in Business: The Artificers, Fort Scott
Emerging Arts Leader of the Year: Lacey Connell, Overland Park
Emerging Arts Organization of the Year: LV Arts, Leavenworth
Rural Arts Community of the Year: Clay Center
Urban Arts Community of the Year: NOTO Arts & Entertainment District, Topeka
Arts Leader of the Year: Katy Guthrie, Garden City
Arts Organization of the Year: Theatre in the Park, Overland Park
Arts Legacy Award: Constance “Connie” Bonfy, Wichita
Arts Legacy Award: Cecil Riney, Wichita
Arts Legacy Award: NedRa Bonds, Kansas City
The Governor’s Award: Melissa Etheridge, Leavenworth
To learn more about the Kansas Arts Commission, their programs or art resources, visit here.
About the Kansas Department of Commerce:
As the state’s lead economic development agency, the Kansas Department of Commerce strives to empower individuals, businesses and communities to achieve prosperity in Kansas. Commerce accomplishes its mission by developing relationships with corporations, site location consultants and stakeholders in Kansas, the nation and world. Our strong partnerships allow us to help create an environment for existing Kansas businesses to grow and foster an innovative, competitive landscape for new businesses. Through Commerce’s project successes, Kansas was awarded Area Development Magazine’s prestigious Gold Shovel award in 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024, and was awarded the 2021 and 2022 Governor’s Cup by Site Selection Magazine.
About the Kansas Arts Commission (KAC):
The Kansas Arts Commission stewards the state’s investment in the arts by empowering creativity, fostering innovation, and strengthening the economy to enhance the vitality of every Kansas community. The Kansas Arts Commission is a division of the Kansas Department of Commerce. To learn more about KAC, click here or contact Ben Stanton at [email protected] or (785) 213-5959.
Are you itching to get out of the house and do something productive in the landscape? If you have fruit trees, now is the time to prune. A little planning ahead with fruit trees, such as pruning, can mean big rewards later in the growing season.
Are you like many who are “afraid” to prune? Don’t be. When done correctly, pruning is an essential component of growing a healthy, productive fruit tree. Fruit trees should be pruned every year and for several reasons. The first is the development of a strong tree structure. Pruning should begin when the tree is planted and continued each year thereafter. Another reason to prune is the increased penetration of sunlight for the development of fruit buds and for the fruit to mature properly.
Trees can be pruned this early (winter) because they are dormant. This can be done in January, February and even early March. Pruning when trees are dormant makes it easier to see undesirable branches because leaves aren’t present. It is important to do any pruning before dormant sprays are applied, to avoid spraying some of the wood that will later be removed. Total spray coverage of limbs, branches and shoots will be increased after pruning. Do not prune if temperatures are below 20°F because this can cause tissue damage.
Have your fruit trees been neglected for quite some time? If so, pruning can seem like an overwhelming task; where to start, how much wood to remove, etc. But a neglected tree can be revitalized.
The first step in revitalizing a neglected tree is to prune wood around the trunk area and near the ground. Remove all sucker growth around the trunk by cutting as close as possible to the point of origin. Then remove all dead and diseased branches. Next, look for two branches that rub and remove one of the two. Branches that are growing toward the interior of the tree should also be removed. No more than thirty percent of the tree should be removed in a year.
You will want to retain scaffolds that are growing away from the tree center at wide angles with the trunk. Scaffolds are one of the main branches making the basic framework of a tree. They should be positioned on different sides of the tree for good distribution of the fruit crop.
The right tools are needed for proper pruning. Tools always need to be sharp so clean cuts can be made. Cuts that result in bark tears, stubs, or jagged surfaces are slow to heal and may even not completely heal. A scissor type of hand shear is used to prune small size wood, usually ¼ inch in diameter. Long handled loppers should be used to cut ¼ to ½ inch wood. These will need to be used generally by the third year of tree growth. For branches larger than ½ inch, use a fine-toothed pruning saw.
The Extension office has a couple of publications on pruning fruit trees that explain in more detail how to prune depending on the species and age of the tree. These publications can be found on our Southwind website: www.southwind.ksu.edu
Krista Harding is a K-State Research and Extension Horticulture agent assigned to Southwind District. She may be reached at [email protected] or 620-244-3826.
K-State Research and Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
As the flowers bloom and the days grow longer, spring is the perfect time for renewal—not just for your home but also for your finances. Just as many people embrace spring cleaning to refresh their living spaces, a financial checkup can help tidy up your budget, savings, and financial goals. Financial goals—such as reducing expenses, increasing savings, and paying off debt—are often a top priority. Conducting a financial checkup can be an excellent first step toward achieving these objectives.
According to a 2023 report from the Federal Reserve, 37% of Americans would struggle to cover a $400 emergency expense, highlighting the importance of maintaining financial stability. Additionally, a survey by Bankrate found that only 44% of U.S. adults have enough savings to cover three months of expenses, reinforcing the need for better financial planning.
Just as regular medical checkups are essential for maintaining physical health, an annual financial checkup can provide valuable insights into your financial well-being. While there is no “one size fits all” answer in Financial Planning, what might work for one family or individual may not work for another. K-State Research & Extension offers a resource titled How Are You Doing? A Financial Checkup to help individuals assess and enhance their financial health. This publication is available online at K-State Research & Extension Bookstore, or physical copies can be obtained at local Extension Offices.
How Are You Doing? A Financial Checkup includes a Financial Fitness Quiz covering key areas such as financial management, saving and investing, credit, and smart shopping. The publication also provides guidance on setting financial goals, preparing a net worth statement, and developing a budget. Additionally, it offers valuable information on reviewing taxes, credit reports, insurance coverage, retirement plans, investments, and estate planning.
Whether managing your finances independently or with professional assistance, this resource can help you gain a clearer understanding of your financial situation and support your efforts in making meaningful improvements.
Information from today’s article came from K-State Research and Extension’s Fact Sheet: How are you doing? A Financial Check-Up. For more information, contact Community Vitality Agent Amanda Clasen at any Southwind District office or [email protected].
Arthur McCammon “Mac” French, 75, of Fort Scott, passed away early Tuesday morning, March 11, 2025. He was born October 7, 1949, in Pittsburg, Kansas, the son of Arthur McCammon French and Patricia Ruth (Bicknel) French. He married Nema Burton and together they had two children, Tommy and Courtney. They later divorced, and Mac moved to the Dallas, Texas area to work. He married Shawn Murphy later in life, and she preceded him in death on January 9, 2021.
Mac graduated from Colgan High School and went on to graduate from Pittsburg State University. He was a Visual Merchandiser and worked for Sally Beauty Supply company. Mac was an excellent guitar player and lead singer, and played in several bands.
Survivors include his son, Thomas McCammon French, of Arma, Kansas; a sister, Shari Magee, of Fort Scott; grandson Cooper French, of Arma, Kansas, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. In addition to his wife, Shawn, Mac was also preceded in death by his parents, and his daughter, Courtney Amber French.
Following cremation, private family graveside services will be at a later date at Evergreen Cemetery, under the direction of the Konantz-Cheney Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Mary’s Catholic School, and may be left in the care of the Konantz-Cheney Funeral Home, 15 W. Wall Street, P.O. Box 309, Fort Scott, KS, 66701. Friends and family may sign the online guest book and share memories at www.konantzcheney.com.
