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.

Charles William “Bill” Lewis, 79, of Fort Scott, passed away at Overland Park Regional Hospital early Friday morning, June 27, 2025.

Services are set for 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, July 1, 2025, at the Konantz-Cheney Funeral Home with burial following at Memory Gardens.

The complete obituary will be available later.

Ronald “Ronnie” Fred Taylor, 87, resident of Bronson, Kansas, passed away at his home early Thursday morning, June 26, 2025. He was born June 6, 1938, in Xenia, Kansas, the son of William Ray Taylor and Helen Mae (Stewart) Taylor. He married Bonnie Mason on May 31, 1959, in Fort Scott, and she preceded him in death on September 17, 2020.

Ronnie was a farmer, and he was a Master Plumber for fifty years. He was a member of the Xenia Baptist Church, and he served on the board of Heartland Electric Cooperative for forty years.

Ronnie is survived by his son, Raymond Taylor and his wife Kathy, of Bronson, Kansas; three grandchildren, Danny, Nathan and his wife Ashley, and Maggie, as well as several great-grandchildren.

In addition to his wife Bonnie, Ronnie was preceded in death by his parents; a son, Brad Taylor, who died in April of 2001; and a brother, William Leon Taylor.

Pastor Randy Smith will conduct funeral services for Ronnie at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, July 2, 2025, at the Konantz-Cheney Funeral Home.

Burial will follow at the Bronson Cemetery, under the direction of the Konantz-Cheney Funeral Home.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Xenia Baptist Church, 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.

Everett Eugene “Gene” Forester, a cherished father, grandfather, sibling, and friend, passed away at the age of 72 on June 26, 2025, in Arma, Kansas. Born on September 6, 1952, in Marionville, Missouri, to the late Richard and Lula Forester, Gene’s life was a testament to his loving nature, adventurous spirit, and passionate heart.

Gene grew up in a bustling household alongside his siblings, Everett Bentley Forester (deceased), Gary and Larry Forester (deceased twins), Ernie (Jan) Forester, June Crowley, Linda Rhodes (Bill), and the late Dorothy Logan and numerous nieces and nephews. His childhood near Aurora Missouri was filled with the simple joys of rural life, which shaped his character and his lifelong love of the outdoors. Gene attended Fort Scott schools, where he formed many lasting friendships and developed a strong foundation for his future.

In his professional life, Gene initially worked at Peerless Products, where he was known for his dedication and hard work. However, his true calling was the life of a ranch hand, which he embraced for the last 25 years. His connection with the land and the animals he tended was profound, and he approached his work with the same love and care he gave to his family.

A man with a passion for horses, Gene’s adventurous streak often led him to sneak a horse or two into the house during his younger years, ensuring they stayed warm on cold nights. This anecdote perfectly captures Gene’s boundless love for animals and his willingness to go the extra mile for those he cared about.

Gene’s legacy lives on through his beloved children, Christy Boyer (Brian), Richard Forester (deceased, 1977), Bobby Forester (Jennifer), and Jessy Russell (Nick), as well as his treasured grandchildren, Dylan, JoSara, Emory, Stella, Bella, Zoey, Izzy, Madi, Emma, and Tinley. His role as a father and grandfather was the one he cherished most, and the countless memories created with his family will be held close to their hearts forever.

As we remember Gene, we are reminded of the words of Helen Keller: “What we have once enjoyed we can never lose; all that we love deeply becomes a part of us.” Gene’s love has indeed become a part of all who knew him.

Everett Eugene Forester was a man of great love, adventure, and passion. His life’s journey was one of connection—to his family, his friends, his faith, and the natural world he so adored. As we bid farewell to Gene, we celebrate the remarkable life he led and the indelible impact he left on the hearts of many. May his story continue to inspire us to live with love, to seek adventure, and to embrace our passions with all our might.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 A.M. Monday, June 30^th at the Cheney Witt Chapel.

Burial will follow in the Pleasant Valley Cemetery southwest of Ft. Scott.

The family will receive friends on Monday from 10:00 A.M. until service time 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 reme

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.