SERVICE NOTICE

George Scott Koppa, known affectionately to friends and family as Scott, entered into eternal rest on June 20, 2025, at the age of 50. There was cremation. The family will receive friends from 10:00 AM until 12:00 PM Saturday, July 5 th at the Cheney Witt Chapel. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial donations to Care to Share
which 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.

Charles William “Bill” Lewis, 79, of Fort Scott, passed away at Overland Park Regional Hospital early Friday morning, June 27, 2025. Bill was born in unforgettable fashion on November 2, 1945 – on the front steps of Mercy Hospital in Fort Scott. His mother, Marjorie Alice (Singmaster) Lewis, went into labor enroute, and his father, Marvin Singleton Lewis, famously “caught” him just outside the hospital doors. That dramatic entrance set the tone for a life marked by resilience, resourcefulness, and a great sense of humor.

Bill began his education in a one-room schoolhouse in rural Bourbon County, where he attended through eighth grade before transitioning to Fort Scott public schools. He graduated from Fort Scott High School in 1963 and attended Fort Scott Community College. He began working at an early age on the family farm, mastering a lifetime’s worth of skills while helping with fieldwork, milking cows, and every chore in between. Over the years, he wore many hats professionally: he worked for Kansas Gas & Electric as a meter reader for Bourbon County, owned and operated a diner, and built and repaired homes as a talented and meticulous carpenter and handyman. He also worked for MCM Restoration
and was known far and wide as someone who could fix just about anything.

Through all seasons of life, Bill remained a steady, hardworking man – a provider and supporter not only for his family, but for friends and neighbors alike. He met life’s challenges head-on, including
surviving polio in childhood and three separate battles with cancer in adulthood, always with grit, grace, and quiet determination.

Bill had a deep love for classic cars and spent countless Wednesday nights playing poker with his longtime crew, affectionately known as The State Line Society Club. He enjoyed old westerns, football
games, and NASCAR, and loved hitting the local casinos with his beloved partner, Deb Sailors. He also found joy in sharing meals and laughter with friends. And no matter where he was or who was
watching, if “Mustang Sally” came on, you could count on Bill to break into a dance with a grin on his face. Above all, Bill was a devoted father and grandfather. He never missed an opportunity to show pride in his grandchildren, to support them, cheer them on, and dote on them in every way possible.

Bill is survived by his children, David (Carole) Lewis and Lisa (Robbie) Jackson; grandchildren, Taelor Lewis, Madeleine, Katherine, and Sofe Lewis; great-grandchildren, Declan and Haze Hawn, and his special friend, Deb Sailors, her children, Jeff (Megan) Sailors, with Sam, Max, and Lexi, and Joe (Mary) Sailors, with Savannah and Olivia. He is also survived by his sister, Beverly Peel; sisters-in-law, Leah Lewis and Kitty Lewis; and brother-in-law, Sam Huckaby. He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Ruth Ann (Huckaby) Lewis; and siblings Marvin Jr., Ronald, and Jerry Lewis.

An open visitation will be held at Konantz-Cheney Funeral Home in Fort Scott on Tuesday, July 1, 2025, from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m., followed by interment at Memory Gardens Cemetery with family. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial donations be made to Care to Share, a local cancer support group that was dear to Bill’s heart. Memorial contributions 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.

Kandi Kay Cruse passed away on June 27, 2025, at the age of 67 after a valiant battle with cancer. Born on March 29, 1958, in Colorado Springs, CO, Kandi’s zest for life and carefree spirit were evident from an early age. She departed this world surrounded by the love of her family and friends.

Kandi’s life was marked by her unwavering work ethic, which was clear to all who knew her. She began working at 14 at the Parsons movie theatre and from job to job, she saved every penny to
purchase a 1976 black Camero, a symbol of her independence and determination. Her career path led her to various respected positions, including working at Mid-Western Distribution, District Court Clerk for Sam Mason, Gold Star Trailers, and Neal Manufacturing. Kandi’s professional life was as diverse and vibrant as her personality, and she was highly regarded by all who had the pleasure of working alongside her.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Kandi was a woman of varied interests and passions. Mornings found her with a cup of coffee, enjoying the early hours of the day. She loved her horses, and more
recently all her dogs, cats, and woodland creatures. Gardening was another pastime that brought Kandi great joy, as she found peace in tending to her plants and watching them grow. The long white
table full of tomatoes was a testament to her gardening skills. She loved the beach, playing pool, and Razr rides with friends. She was bright, creative, and could tackle any project like a pro.

Above all, Kandi cherished her family. She is survived by her beloved daughters, Randi, along with her family Jordan, Ivan, Ava, and Lydia Witt, and Cie Jae, with her family Angie, Kade, Kylie, Kyndall, Klyde, Koye, and Remi Cummings. Kandi’s significant other, Larry Bailey, and his family Justin and Amanda, Jeremy, Ryan and Valerie and their kids also share in the loss of this remarkable woman.
Her siblings, Randall and Linda, Ricky and Gina, Rob, Rodney and Anita, and Tonya and John, along with numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews, will miss Kandi’s vibrant presence. She was previously married to Stan Meek and later Mike Neal, both of whom shared parts of her life’s journey. She was preceded in death by her parents, Wayne and Margaret Cruse, her sister, Sheryl Birkner, and her beloved dog, Molly, who were undoubtedly there to greet her with open arms and a wagging tail.

As we bid farewell to Kandi Kay Cruse, we celebrate a life well lived. Those who had the privilege of knowing Kandi will remember her for her laughter, her resilience, and her ability to make every
moment count. She lived her life fully, embracing both the simple pleasures and the grand adventures. Though she may be gone, the legacy of Kandi’s spirit will forever be cherished and kept
alive in the stories shared and the memories treasured by her family and friends. Rest in peace, Kandi; your memory will forever be a source of comfort and joy to us all.

Rev. Dr. Jared Witt will conduct funeral services at 10:00 AM Thursday, July 3rd , at the Cheney Witt Chapel. Burial will follow in the Evergreen Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 5:00 until 7:00 PM Wednesday at the funeral home. Memorials are suggested to Care to Share 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.