George Scott Koppa, known affectionately to friends and family as Scott, entered into eternal rest on June 20, 2025, at the age of 50. Born on November 9, 1974, in Fort Scott, Kansas, Scott was a lifelong resident of his beloved hometown, where he also peacefully passed away surrounded by his loving family.

Scott was the cherished son of George and Marsha Koppa (Thurston) and a devoted brother to Richard Koppa and his wife Bobbie. He was a proud father to his three children, Mackenzie Koppa (Blaine Thompson), Ivy Koppa (Connor Medlin), and Ian Koppa, and a doting grandfather to Caydence Anderson and Saige Thompson who he relished in the joys of playing with. His family circle extended to include his loving daughter, Samantha Garwood (Kyle Barrett).

Scott was preceded in death by his uncles, Johnny Thurston and Michael Thurston, his maternal grandparents Richard and Mary Ann Thurston, and paternal grandparents Louise and Francis Pace and William Koppa whose memories he held close to his heart.

A proud graduate of Fort Scott High School’s class of 1993, Scott’s commitment to education led him to continue his studies at Fort Scott Community College, where he graduated in 1995. His academic pursuits were a testament to his belief in the power of learning and the importance of personal growth. Scott’s interests were as unique and rich as his personality. An avid collector, he found great joy in hunting for coins and memorabilia, each piece adding to a tapestry of stories he loved to share. His generous spirit was evident in the care he took of his collections, and his thoughtfulness shone through in the way he cherished each item’s history. Those who knew Scott best would describe him as funny, generous, and thoughtful. His sense of humor was infectious, lighting up any room he entered.

Scott’s generosity knew no bounds, and he was always the first to offer help to anyone in need. His thoughtful nature was evident in the considerate way he treated everyone he met, always with kindness and respect. Scott’s legacy is one of laughter, kindness, and love. He lived his life with a generosity of spirit that touched everyone he knew.

His memory will be cherished and kept alive through the stories told by those who loved him, the collections he curated with such passion, and the enduring love he had for his family. As we bid farewell to Scott, we reflect on a life well-lived, a life filled with joy, laughter, and an abundance of love. His presence will be deeply missed, but the imprint he left on the hearts of those who knew him will never fade. Scott’s journey on this earth was a testament to the beauty of a life spent in service to others, the pursuit of one’s passions, and the unbreakable bonds of family. Rest in peace, Scott; your memory will forever be a treasure to us all.

There was cremation.  Memorial services will be announced at a later date.  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.

Wanda June “Jay” Dunn, age 85, passed away peacefully on June 23, 2025, at the home of her daughter in Spring Hill, Kansas.

Jay was born July 10, 1939, in Oskaloosa, Missouri, to Bill and Carrie Guss Carpenter and was the fourth of their six children. She graduated with the Class of 1957 from Liberal High School. After graduation, she moved to Fort Scott, where she worked at Key Work Clothes and the White Grill.

On May 14, 1961, in Fort Scott, Jay married William “Bill” Dunn, whom she met on a blind date. They were married nearly 55 years before Bill’s passing in 2016. Together, they built a life grounded in family, hard work, and shared purpose. The couple founded several successful ventures including Bill Dunn Auction Service and Dunn’s Moving and Storage, earning a respected name in the southeast Kansas community.

Jay lived a life of quiet strength and generous spirit. Whether through her work, her friendships, or the warmth of her home, she touched countless lives with her kindness and extraordinary cooking skills.  She was an amazing mother, grandmother and aunt and made a significant impact on their those around her.

She is survived by her daughter, Rhonda Dunn, Spring Hill, her son, Mike Dunn (Clara) of Fort Scott, and her granddaughter, Hannah Dunn also of Fort Scott.  Her oldest son, Gary, preceded her in death in 2006.

She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who were fortunate to know her.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 A.M. Friday, June 27^th at the Cheney Witt Chapel.

Burial will follow in the Memory Gardens Cemetery.

The family will receive friends from 6 to 7 P.M. Thursday at the Cheney Witt Chapel.

Memorials are suggested to Care to Share and may be left in care of the Cheney Witt Chapel, 201 S. Main, P.O. Box 347, Ft. Scott, KS 66701.  Words of remembrance may be submitted to the online guestbook at cheneywitt.com.

Doris Kathryn Ericson, age 89, a resident of rural Hiattville, Kansas, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, June 20, 2025, just one day before what would have been her 90^th birthday.

Doris was born June 21, 1935, in Wichita, Kansas, the daughter of Ross Graham and Charlotte Brehm Graham.  Doris grew up in Kechi, northwest of Wichita where she rode a horse to her one-room school.  Her dad and grandfather, Roy Graham, were horse traders and long-time horsemen.  Before she finished her junior year at Wichita East High School, her parents moved to a farm east of Savonburg, Kansas.  She stayed with her Brehm grandparents.  When school ended, she moved to Savonburg.

A group of hay haulers drove by while she was hanging clothes on the solar clothes dryer and made a bet to see who would get the first date.  Henry won and they were married six months later on December 24, 1952, at the Friends Home Lutheran Church parsonage in Savonburg, Kansas.

Shortly after their marriage, Doris and Henry moved to Sault St. Marie, Michigan, where Henry was stationed with the United States Army.  Following Henry’s military service, the couple returned to Kansas and lived in Elsmore and Hepler before purchasing their own farm near Hiattville in 1962.  They named it Cloverdale Angus Farm, and together they built a life centered around faith, family and community.  Doris was an active farm wife and an essential partner in the day-to-day operations of the farm, where they raised hogs and registered Angus beef cattle.

Doris was a devoted wife and mother to their six children.  While raising her family, she was greatly involved in the Hiattville 4-H Club, serving in a variety of leadership roles.  Long after her own children had grown, Doris remained active in the 4-H community, especially through her service to the Bourbon County Fair.  For many years, she managed the 4-H chuckwagon, where her friendly presence and tireless work were a vital part of the fair experience.  She also served faithfully on the Bourbon County Fair Board and the Bourbon County Extension Council, always willing to lend a hand and lead with kindness and dedication.

In 1990, Doris and Henry were honored with induction into the Kansas Master Farmer Homemaker Group, in recognition of their years of service and commitment to agriculture, Extension work, and community leadership.  In 2007, the Ericson Family was named 4-H Family of the Year, a fitting tribute and legacy rooted in generational care and community investment.  Doris was also an active member of the Starlite FCE where she served many years as the club’s treasurer.  She also was treasurer for the Southwind District FCE Council.  In 2022, she was honored at the state level with the Heart of FCE award. She had been a member of the Eastern Star for over fifty years.

Doris enjoyed gardening and was also active with the Bourbon County Garden Club and had achieved the status of Master Gardener.  In addition to her work on the farm, Doris was also employed by the United States Postal Service for nineteen years, where she was known for her reliability, warmth and genuine connection to those along her route.

Following retirement from the postal service, Doris served for many years as the President of the Bourbon County Chapter of the National Association of Retired Federal Employees.  Doris had planned to celebrate her 90^th birthday on Sunday at the Friends Home Lutheran Church.  However, plans have changed.  She will now be celebrating in Heaven with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, her beloved husband, Henry, her little boy Rusty, her mom and dad and all the other faithful family and friends who have gone on before.  What a celebration that will be!

Left to mourn her passing are her daughters, Debra Lust of Ft. Scott, Karen Ericson, Riley, Kansas, Susan Jones (Roger) of LaHarpe, Kansas and Brenda Peacock (Terry) of Golden, Missouri; her sons, Kevin Ericson (Donna) Frisco, Texas and John Ericson (Ellaine) of Ft. Scott; seventeen grandchildren and twenty-one great-grandchildren with one more on the way.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 A.M. Wednesday, June 25^th at the Friends Home Lutheran Church, 3797 Arizona Rd., Savonburg, Kansas.

Burial will follow in the Elsmore Cemetery.  The family will receive friends from 5 to 7 P.M. Tuesday at the Cheney Witt Chapel.

Memorials are suggested to the Friends Home Lutheran Church, the Elsmore Alumni Association or the Bourbon County Fair Association and may be left in care of the Cheney Witt Chapel, 201 S. Main, P.O. Box 347, Ft. Scott, KS 66701.  Words of remembrance may be submitted to the online guestbook at cheneywitt.com.

Arthur Joseph Pollreis, age 16, a resident of rural Walnut, Kansas, died tragically on Wednesday, June 18, 2025.  Arthur was born on September 25, 2008, in Fort Scott, Kansas. Shortly after his birth, he was lovingly adopted by Randy and Leanne Pollreis.  He spent his early childhood in Chanute and Uniontown before beginning high school in Erie, Kansas, where he had just completed his sophomore year.  Arthur was a well-rounded active student at Erie High School.  He was involved in cross country, baseball, basketball and sport shooting, dedicating time and effort to each of these activities.  He also found a place on the stage, participating in several school plays as part of the high school drama department.  Whether competing in athletics or performing under the lights, Arthur was engaged in school life and known among his peers and teachers alike.

He is survived by his father and stepmother, Randy and Shael Pollreis; his three brothers, Gavin, Dominic, and Coby; and a few stepsiblings.  He was preceded in death by his mother, Leanne Pollreis.  Arthur’s life was marked by involvement, effort, and the many relationships he formed along the way.  His loss is deeply felt by his family and friends.

Rev. Marty DeWitt will conduct a memorial service at 10:00 A.M. Thursday, June 26^th at the Cheney Witt Chapel, 201 S. Main, Ft. Scott, Kansas.  Words of remembrance may be submitted to the online guestbook at cheneywitt.com.

Windfred Allen DeMott, age 84, resident of Bronaugh, Missouri, died Saturday June 7, 2025, at the home.  He was born September 15, 1940, in Mound City, Kansas and his parents were Clyde Vernon DeMott and Alice Rosemond (Jackman) DeMott.  He attended Mound City High School.  He had worked at the Hydraulic Cement Plant in Ft. Scott, the Bourbon County Barn as a shop foreman, the City of Ft. Scott with the equipment maintenance dept., Bill’s Coal Co in Garland, Kansas, and a few of the local rock quarry companies in Fort Scott.

He enjoyed restoring and parading his antique tractors.  He attended many local festivals with his tractor collection.  His 1937 vintage McCormick-Deering Farmall tractor was the featured tractor in the Pioneer Harvest Fiesta in 1994.  In his later years, he spent his time spoiling the cows and feeding the chickens on the farm in Bronaugh.

His family included three children, son, Allen DeMott, Fort Scott and two daughters Sheryl Crawley, Overland Park, Kansas and Shelly DeMott, Peculiar, Missouri.  His friend for over thirty years, Carol (Griffiths) Claflin of Bronaugh, ten grandchildren and fourteen great-grandchildren, two brothers, Delton DeMott, Peck, Kansas and Roger DeMott, La Cygne, Kansas.  He was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Cleta Fern Stump.

The family will receive friends for a celebration of life from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM Saturday June 21^st at the Cheney Witt Carriage House, 301 S. Main St, in Fort Scott.

Interment will follow at the Woodland Cemetery in Mound City, Kansas at 2:30 PM for those who would like to attend.

In lieu of flowers the family suggests memorials to the Pioneer Harvest Fiesta and may be left in care of the Cheney Witt Chapel, PO Box 347, 201 S. Main, Ft. Scott, KS 66701.  Words of remembrance may be submitted to the online guestbook at cheneywitt.com.

Winfred Allen DeMott, ate 84, resident of Bronaugh, MO passed away Saturday, June 7, 2025, at his home.  Services for Windfred Allen DeMott will be announced by the Cheney Witt Chapel, 201 S. Main St.

Jewell LeRoy Smith, Jr., age 76, a resident of Girard, Kansas, passed away Saturday, June 7, 2025, at the Mercy Hospital in Pittsburg, Kansas.  He was born August 19, 1948, in Ft. Scott, Kansas, the son of Jewell LeRoy Smith and Myrtle May Baker Smith.  Jewell grew up in Ft. Scott and graduated from Ft. Scott High School and Ft. Scott Community College.

Jewell served with the United States Air Force from 1966 to 1969.  He attained the rank of Sargeant and was awarded the Bronze Star for meritorious achievement while serving at DaNang Air Base in Vietnam.  Upon discharge from the Air Force, he enlisted with the U. S. Army Reserves. He retired as Sergeant First Class in August of 1995.

Jewell was united in marriage to Connie Cullison; together they had a daughter, Amanda.

Jewell had been employed as a press operator for Forms Manufacturing, Inc in Girard for over thirty years.  He was a longtime member of the Girard Masonic Lodge and had served as Worshipful Master.  In his spare time, he enjoyed flying radio-controlled airplanes and golfing.

Survivors include his wife, Connie, of the home; a daughter, Amanda Smith Ogden (John) of Grove, Oklahoma, two grandchildren, Phoenix and Kadin and two great-grandchildren, Roselyn Sue and Hazel May.

Jewell was preceded in death by his parents, two sisters, Jewell Arlene Marshall and Nancy Barr and a brother, Harry Smith.

Following cremation, graveside services will be held at 1:30 P.M. Wednesday, June 18^th at the U. S. National Cemetery in Ft. Scott.

Memorials are suggested to the Jewell Smith Memorial Fund and may be left in care of the Cheney Witt Chapel, 201 S. Main, P.O. Box 347, Ft. Scott, KS 66701.  Words of remembrance

Craig M. McKenney. It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Craig Marshall McKenney, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. Craig, age 72, of Fort Scott, Kansas, passed away on June 4, 2025, at the Mayo Clinic Hospital in Rochester, Minnesota. Born on October 23, 1952, in Lawrence, Kansas, he was the son of Lloyd James McKenney and Myla O. McKenney, who preceded him in death along with his cherished daughter, Parker Lea McKenney.

Craig is survived by his wife, Dana Marshall McKenney, whom he married on June 29, 1990, in Estes Park, Colorado. He leaves behind a legacy of love in his children: Angela Michelle McKenney, Fort Scott, KS; Reece Marshall McKenney, Fort Scott, KS; and Andrew Marshall Suddock, Wichita, KS. His grandchildren, William “Kieran” Houlihan and Colin Michael Houlihan, were the lights of his life, bringing joy and laughter to his days. He is also survived by his brothers, Michael McKenney, Mark (Cindy) McKenney, Timothy (Deb) McKenney, Patrick (Kathy) McKenney, sister Lisa (Keith) Proctor, and many nieces and nephews who held a special place in his heart. Craig’s cousins, Marsha, Dan, & Steve also cherished him deeply.

Craig was a proud member of the Fort Scott High School graduating class of 1970 and continued his education at Pittsburg State University. His career was marked by a dedication to restoring and preserving historic buildings, a passion that grew into a lifelong vocation. President of MCM Restoration for many decades, he took pride in preservation, conservation, and restoration of countless structures across the United States leaving a tangible mark on the community he loved.

A devoted member of the First Presbyterian Church, Craig served as an elder, contributing to the community with steadfast faith and kindness. His commitment extended to the Elks Lodge, where he formed lasting friendships and shared countless memories. He was also one of the founders of Fort Scott Lumber, a venture that showcased his entrepreneurial spirit. A compassionate man, Craig organized and smoked 300 racks of ribs, raising over $5,800 for the victims of Hurricane Katrina, embodying his generous spirit.

In his leisure, Craig found joy in cooking for his family and friends, particularly grilling and smoking meat. He cherished boating and pheasant hunting adventures. He loved engaging in great conversations at the farm after a long day’s work and held a keen interest in learning to fly airplanes. His resilience, kindness, and loving nature made him a pillar of strength in his community.

Craig’s funeral service will be held on Friday, June 13, 2025, at 11:00 AM at the First Presbyterian Church, where he shared many moments of faith and fellowship.

Visitation will begin at 10:00 AM, prior to the service.

Burial will follow at the Evergreen Cemetery, Fort Scott, KS. Services are under the direction of the Konantz-Cheney Funeral Home.

All are welcome to join in honoring and celebrating his life. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Parker Lea McKenney Memorial FFA Scholarship at Fort Scott Community College, honoring the memory of his beloved daughter.

As we remember Craig, we hold dear the special moments we shared with him—his laughter, his love, and his unwavering support. To all the wonderful friends and colleagues he encountered throughout his life, he appreciated each of you and the impact you made in his world. Craig will be profoundly missed but forever remembered in our hearts.

Michael David Kent, age 72, a resident of rural Mapleton, Kansas, passed away Thursday, June 5, 2025.  There was cremation and no services are planned at this time.  Arrangements were under the direction of the Cheney Witt Chapel, 201 S. Main, Ft. Scott, Kansas.  Words of remembrance may be submitted to the online guestbook at cheneywitt.com.

Karen Salsbury, a woman of extraordinary musical talent, keen intellect, and unwavering determination, passed away peacefully on June 4, 2025, with her family at her side. Born on June 29, 1944, in Mauston, Wisconsin, her early passion for music blossomed into an illustrious career and a lifelong devotion to education.

A consummate musician, Karen was the first chair violist for a combined 20 years, gracing the stages of both the Atlanta Ballet Symphony and the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra. Her love for music extended beyond performance; she was a private instructor for many years, beginning even before high school graduation and continuing through her retirement until 2020. Her academic journey reflected her deep value for music and learning, culminating in a Bachelor’s degree from Kansas State College of Pittsburg in 1966, a Master of Music from Florida State University in 1971, and her earlier graduation from Fort Scott High School in 1962.

Karen’s professional life was also marked by significant contributions to academia. She served as the Coordinator of the Emory University College Honors Program and Political Science Department from 1980 to 1999. Later, she was an Adjunct Assistant Professor of Music at Cottey College from 2000 to 2006, a Studio Instructor at Fort Scott Community College from 1999 to 2016, and a Faculty Affiliate in the Department of Music at Emory University for seven years.

A devoted, active member of Trinity Lutheran Church, Karen’s faith was a guiding light. She served faithfully as the organist for many years and held numerous leadership roles, including treasurer and stewardship. Her contributions to the church’s music ministry were immeasurable, continuing actively until her passing.

Karen possessed a uniquely sharp wit and dry humor that illuminated every interaction. She was incredibly precise, discerning, and determined, leaving no room for doubt about her thoughts or intentions. While there was little mystery to Karen’s preferences, there was true magic in her presence, her devotion, and her mastery of deadpan humor. Her absence will be profoundly felt.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Floyd and Gretchen Salsbury, two brothers, Donald and David Salsbury, and one great-nephew, Alden Kiwan. Karen is survived by her sister, Zandra Hood; nieces Kathryn Salsbury, Victoria Hood, Dawn Salsbury, and Erica Salsbury; nephew Ryan Salsbury; and great-nephews Patrick Fox, Kaden Kiwan, Jessden Kiwan (and wife Jorden), and Boden Kiwan.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 A.M. Wednesday, June 11^th at the Trinity Lutheran Church, with Pastor Michael Apfel officiating.

Graveside services will follow in Evergreen Cemetery.  The family will receive friends from 5 to 7 P.M. Tuesday at the Cheney Witt Chapel.

Memorials are suggested to the Trinity Lutheran Church and may be left in care of the Cheney Witt Chapel, 201 S. Main, P.O. Box 347, Ft. Scott, KS 66701.  Words of remembrance may be submitted to the online guestbook at cheneywitt.com.

Margie S. Haynes, age 88, a resident of Cavalry Crossing Apartments in Ft. Scott, Kansas, passed away Monday, June 2, 2025, at the Mercy Hospital in Pittsburg, Kansas.  She was born January 14, 1937, in Graettinger, Iowa.  She grew up in Nevada, Missouri and was united in marriage to John Franklin “Frank” Haynes on May 29, 1954, in Nevada.

Margie had worked as a waitress.  She later provided childcare out of her home for many years.  In her spare time, Margie enjoyed reading.

She was a member of Mary Queen of Angels Catholic Church.

Margie is survived by three sons, Arthur Franklin Haynes (Lydia) of Arlington, Kentucky, Rickey J. Haynes of Coffeyville, Kansas and Michael E. Haynes (Nicole) of Tulsa, Oklahoma; two grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

Margie was preceded in death by her husband, Frank, on May 2, 2012.  She was also preceded in death by her parents and eighteen brothers and sisters.

Father Yancey Burgess will conduct Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30 A.M. Tuesday, June 10^th at the Mary Queen of Angels Catholic Church.  Burial will follow in the Oak Grove Cemetery.  Memorials are suggested to the Ronald McDonald House and may be left in care of the Cheney Witt Chapel, 201 S. Main, P.O. Box 347, Ft. Scott, KS 66701.  Words of remembrance may be submitted to the