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Obituary of Joyce Ann Buffalo
Our beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother Joyce Ann Buffalo unexpectedly passed away on January 3, 2026. She was born on December 15, 1947, in Walnut Ridge, Arkansas to Jarvey Stephenson and Sue (Lawrence) Stephenson. The family moved to Kankakee, Illinois when Joyce was five years old where she grew up and attended school. Joyce had a passion for cooking and helping others that can be seen throughout her career. She spent eight years working for St. Mary Hospital and Our Lady of Victoria Nursing Home in nutritional services. In Kankakee, she worked for Aramark while raising four daughters. Later in her career, she was transferred to Kansas where she handled nutritional services at Mercy Hospitals in Independence and Fort Scott. After fifteen years at Aramark, she moved to Fort Scott, Kansas and worked at Tri-Valley. She worked there for four years before retiring and moving to Oklahoma.
After retiring, Joyce built a new life with her husband Arthur Robinson Buffalo Jr. who she married on February 22, 2012. They enjoyed camping, antiquing, and attending grandkids’ events until his passing in January of 2016. Following his passing, she moved back to Fort Scott, Kansas where she spent her days spoiling her dog, Coco, enjoying daily meals with her friend Doug, and spending time with family. Joyce will forever be remembered for her sassiness, orneriness, and wit. Her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren were her greatest joy. She loved spending time with family and regaling us all with fun filled stories that kept us on our toes.
She is survived by three daughters, Kristi (Tommy) George of Fort Scott, Shellie Snyder of Oklahoma, and Diana (Dan) Lange of Kansas City. She is also survived by eleven grandchildren, Ashley (Josh) George, Amanda Harper, Joyce (Daniel) Golden, Draven George, Landry George, Cooper George, Jordan Snyder, Lakin Snyder, Christopher Snyder, Jacob Snyder, and Kody Lange, and sixteen great-grandchildren.
She is preceded in death by her husband Arthur Buffalo, her son Michael, her daughter Lynette Steeby, her sister Janie, and her parents Jarvey Stephenson, Sue Duffield, and Arthur Duffield.
Forever in our hearts, her life was a blessing, and her memory is our treasure.
A celebration of life service will be held at 10:00 A.M. Saturday, January 10th 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.
CHC/SEK Names Vice President of Environmental Services
PITTSBURG, Kan. – The Community Health Center of Southeast Kansas (CHC/SEK) is pleased to announce Ginger Hubbard has been named Vice President of Environmental Services.
“This promotion reflects not only Ginger’s outstanding performance, but a consistent commitment to excellence, leadership, and service. We are grateful for the impact she has made and excited for what’s ahead,” said Ross Turney, CHC/SEK Chief Finance Officer.
Hubbard joined the CHC/SEK team in 2012. She has more than 30 years of experience in professional environmental services and holds certifications in hospitality management and facility and maintenance management. She is also a member of the Association for the Health Care Environment and the American Society for Health Care Engineering.
Most recently, Hubbard served as the Director of Environmental Services, supervising the housekeeping needs of all CHC/SEK clinic locations as well as five school clinics, organizing events and fundraisers, overseeing the daily operations of Stuckey’s Café, and managing operations and reservations for student housing. In addition to her current responsibilities, Ginger will oversee the daily operations and work of the CHC/SEK maintenance department in her new role.
Hubbard says she is motivated by service and committed to providing strong behind-the-scenes support to ensure frontline success. “I’ve enjoyed building the environmental services and café teams, and in my new role, I look forward to supporting great work of the maintenance staff,” said Hubbard. “Our environmental services, maintenance, and facilities teams have always worked well together, supporting one another to ensure work is completed in a timely manner to help ensure that our staff and patients have a great experience at CHC.”
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About Community Health Center of Southeast Kansas
The Community Health Center of Southeast Kansas (CHC/SEK) serves as a healthcare hub for communities in Kansas and Oklahoma. CHC/SEK delivers quality, integrated care to nearly 90,000 patients each year with a goal of improving health, sustaining rural communities, and providing purpose-driven work to 950 staff members. Beyond healthcare, CHC/SEK finds innovative ways to improve lives by focusing on education, housing, and transportation. Regardless of income or insurance status, CHC/SEK ensures everyone receives the care they need. For more information, visit chcsek.org.
Heartland REC Expands Future Foundations Scholarship Program to 12 Awards
GIRARD, Kan. — Applications are now open for the 2026 Future Foundations Scholarship Program, which provides scholarships of $1,000 each to high school seniors who live in homes served by Heartland Rural Electric Cooperative and are preparing for careers in high-demand fields.
This year marks an expansion from eight scholarships to 12, with three scholarships available in each of Heartland’s four voting districts.
The program provides financial support to students in Heartland-served households who are pursuing careers in nursing, teaching, and the skilled trades at Kansas-based schools.
“We’re seeing a critical need for skilled workers across our communities,” said Doug Graham, Heartland REC Communication Specialist. “Whether it’s nurses, teachers, or tradespeople, these careers are essential to ensuring our rural communities can continue to thrive.”
To be eligible, applicants must:
- Be a current high school senior with a minimum 2.0 GPA
- Live in a household served by Heartland REC
- Plan to enroll in a Kansas-based trade school, training program, or college for fall 2026
- Be pursuing a career in nursing, teaching, or a skilled trade including linework, plumbing, HVAC, construction, IT, and others
Applicants must submit a completed application form, two letters of recommendation, and an official high school transcript by end of day Friday, March 13, 2026. Scholarship recipients will be selected through a random drawing and notified by April 1, 2026.
Complete eligibility requirements and the application form are available at heartland-rec.com. Questions can be directed to Doug Graham at (620) 724-5526 or [email protected].
About Heartland Rural Electric Cooperative, Inc.
Heartland Rural Electric Cooperative, Inc. powers rural lifestyles throughout more than 11,000 locations in eastern Kansas. Heartland’s service area includes members in 12 counties, including Allen, Anderson, Bourbon, Cherokee, Coffey, Crawford, Labette, Linn, Miami, Neosho, Wilson, and Woodson counties.
Heartland REC is a non-profit, member-owned cooperative that traces its roots back to three original rural electric cooperatives: Cooperative Electric Power & Light Company in Iola, Sugar Valley Electric Cooperative Association in Mound City, and Sekan Electric Cooperative Association in Girard. Cooperative Electric Power & Light Company joined with Sugar Valley in 1975 to form United Electric Cooperative; United Electric Cooperative joined with Sekan Electric Cooperative Association in 1996
The Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office Daily Reports Jan. 6
Obituary of Michael Lancaster
Michael Hugh “Big Michael” Lancaster, age 71, a resident of rural Deerfield, Missouri, passed away Wednesday, December 31, 2025, at his home.
He was born October 24, 1954, in Noel, Missouri, the son of Robert Hugh Lancaster and Peggy Ann Sellers Lancaster. Michael grew up in Raytown, Missouri and graduated from Raytown High School. He later served with the United States Marine Corps from 1975 to 1979 where he attained the rank of Corporal.
Following his discharge from the Marines, Michael married Michele Piano on July 11, 1986, at Olathe, Kansas. They made their home in Humansville, Missouri where he owned and operated a feed store. In the early ‘90s they moved to Ft. Scott, Kansas and later settled just over the line in Deerfield.
He owned and operated the Dusty Attic Flea Market on Main Street in Ft. Scott. After moving to Deerfield, he operated Poor Boys Antiques and Grannie’s Tiques and Fleas out of his home on 54 Highway. In addition to running the flea market, he also built and repaired computers.
Michael loved to learn and consistently read on a variety of subjects. He enjoyed construction and working on building projects of all kinds. He studied up on green energy and used solar energy and other natural resources to power and heat and cool his home. He also liked to garden.
Michael constructed a greenhouse and used a hydroponic gardening system as part of his operation. He will be lovingly remembered for his ornery personality and his quick wit with a funny joke.
Survivors include his wife, Michele, of the home; eight children, Stephen Petrovich (Heather) of Cape Coral, Florida, Michael Robert Lancaster of Belton, Missouri, Melissa Slocum (Erik) of Swansea, Illinois, Christopher Lancaster (Cindy) of Indonesia, Julia Dryden-Lancaster of Joplin, Missouri, Jessica Lancaster of Ft. Scott, Kansas, Derrick Lancaster who is serving with the US Marine Corps, stationed at Camp Pendleton in California, and Keria Lancaster of the home. Also surviving are several grandchildren and great-grandchildren, two brothers and a sister.
Pastor Randy Query will conduct graveside services at 12:30 PM Friday, January 9th at the U. S. National Cemetery. The family will receive friends on Friday at the Cheney Witt Chapel from 11:00 AM until leaving for the cemetery. 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.
Death Notice of Kenneth Judd
Kenneth L. Judd, Jr., age 79, passed away Wednesday, December 31st, 2025, at Moran Manor in Moran, KS. Services for Kenneth Judd will be announced by the Cheney Witt Chapel, 201 S.
Pie Baking Class, Jan. 10, 2026
Death Notice of Kenneth L. Judd, Jr.
DEATH NOTICE
Kenneth L. Judd, Jr., age 79, passed away Wednesday, December 31st, 2025, at Moran Manor in Moran, KS. Services for Kenneth Judd will be announced by the Cheney Witt Chapel, 201 S. Main St.
Obituary of John Oscar Younggren
John Oscar Younggren, 78, of Fort Scott, Kansas, passed away on January 3, 2026.
He was born on March 30, 1947, in Hugoton, Kansas, to Jean and Oscar Younggren. In the summer of 1962, the family left their homestead in Hugoton and moved to Redfield, Kansas, where they settled on a new farm to build a lasting family legacy. John graduated from Uniontown High School in 1965 and later attended heavy equipment training in Beloit, Kansas.
A lifelong farmer and cattleman, John also owned and operated a successful heavy equipment construction business providing service primarily to agricultural & water conservation. He had an incredible talent for working with dozers, motor-graders and scrapers—able to set grade by eye with unmatched precision. His skill and dedication earned him the respect of many, and he took great pride in shaping the land and caring for his herd.
On March 30, 1968, John married Linda Louise Colvin; they had two children Meleesa and Jason. They later divorced. In his later years, John shared his life with Joann Hays, who preceded him in death. Their relationship was meaningful and brought him steady companionship and comfort—a chapter he truly valued.
John was grateful for the help and visits from Jason & Maddi Thorpe, and their kiddos. Whether it was checking on the cattle, making him a bowl of chili, or grabbing the mail, their thoughtfulness meant so much. He looked forward to their check-ins—catching up on the new calves or getting the latest copy of the Tribune which was most often a fair exchange between he and the kids for a few pieces of candy, was often the highlight of his day.
John deeply appreciated his treasured nurse, Irene, who cared for him not only physically but spiritually as well. Her presence brought him comfort and peace during difficult times. He was also blessed with hospice nurses and attendants who provided exceptional care and companionship—often sitting with him to watch a rodeo or an episode of Ag News. Their kindness and dedication meant the world to him and his family.
John will be remembered for his strength, determination, and love for family and friends. Survivors include his children: Meleesa Grate and husband Dan of Manhattan, KS, and Jason Younggren and wife Monica of Louisburg, KS; four grandchildren: Maddi Pruett, Allea Ruby Davis and Gage (and their soon-to-arrive son), Alec Blayne, and Reece Adlin. He is also survived by his sister Connie Neil, brother Mike Younggren and wife Mary, and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother- in- law, Dwayne Neil and special friend Joann Hays.
John’s legacy lives on in the fields he worked, the land he shaped, and the family he loved. His hands built more than ponds and pastures—they built a life of purpose and pride.
Chaplain Derek Harman will conduct a funeral services at 1:30 p.m. on Wednesday, January 7. 2026 at Cheney Witt Chapel. Burial will follow in the Centerville Cemetery. The family will receive friends Tuesday from 5:00 – 7:00 P.M. at the Cheney Witt Chapel. Memorials are suggested to the Bourbon County Fair and may be left in care of the Cheney Witt Chapel, 201 S. Main, P.O. Box 347, Ft. Scott, Kansas 66701. Words of remembrance may be submitted to the online guestbook at cheneywitt.com.
Join Bourbon County Community Theatre And Have Fun at the 3rd Annual Adult Prom
Do you have an interest in portraying characters and using vocal expression in imaginary circumstances with others…also known as acting?
Consider the Bourbon County Community Theatre as an outlet.
“BCCT membership is open to anyone who is interested,” Angie Bin, publicity chairman for the group, said. “Anyone 18 and over can become a member by completing the form at https://forms.gle/
“The board plans all of the upcoming productions, events, and fundraisers; reports on all income and payments for the month; and analyzes past events,” she said.
There is an upcoming fundraiser on February 21: Adult Prom.
Melodrama auditions are April 27 and 28, and performances are June 5 and 6, a community musical with auditions in June and a performance in August, and the Voices from the Grave Tour on Oct. 24.
On October 24, the group will lead the Voice from the Grave Tour.
Bourbon County Community Theatre in Fort Scott hosts Mardi Gras Masquerade, an Adult Prom, as a fundraiser for future events and performances.
About Adult Prom
BCCT formed in 2023 and is holding its third annual prom for adults (age 18 and over), a night of fun, dancing, and community support, according to a press release.
This formal dance is from 8 p.m. to midnight on Feb. 21, 2026 on the upper floor of Sharky’s Pub and Grub, 16 N. National in Fort Scott. In addition to dancing to a live DJ, there will be non-alcoholic drinks and snacks included in the ticket price, as well as alcoholic beverages and meals available for purchase from the bar.
They hope to add to the fun (and success) of the night with some lighthearted music dueling. Attendees can pay $1.00 to request and/or dedicate a song, $5.00 to request a song NOT be played for an hour, or $10.00 for a song to be banned for the night.
Tickets can be purchased ahead of time at bcct.ludus.com or at the door on Feb. 21. Tickets are $40 per couple or $25 for a single ticket. Participants are encouraged to dress in their best formal or masquerade attire.
BCCT is accepting members. If you’d like to be a part of bringing community theatre back to Bourbon County, visit the Bourbon County Community Theatre Facebook page and complete the form to become a new member.
Currently, the group is made up of:
President: Matthew Wells
Vice President: Mark Bergmann
Secretary: Abby Starkey
Treasurer: Danette Popp
Publicity: Angie Bin
Production Coordinator: Katie Wells
At-large members: Eric Popp, Ben Self, Regen Wells
Obituary of John Younggren
John Oscar Younggren, 78, of Fort Scott, Kansas, passed away on January 3, 2026.
He was born on March 30, 1947, in Hugoton, Kansas, to Jean and Oscar Younggren. In the summer of 1962, the family left their homestead in Hugoton and moved to Redfield, Kansas, where they settled on a new farm to build a lasting family legacy. John graduated from Uniontown High School in 1965 and later attended heavy equipment training in Beloit, Kansas.
A lifelong farmer and cattleman, John also owned and operated a successful heavy equipment construction business providing service primarily to agricultural & water conservation. He had an incredible talent for working with dozers, motor-graders and scrapers—able to set grade by eye with unmatched precision. His skill and dedication earned him the respect of many, and he took great pride in shaping the land and caring for his herd.
On March 30, 1968, John married Linda Louise Colvin; they had two children Meleesa and Jason. They later divorced. In his later years, John shared his life with Joann Hays, who preceded him in death. Their relationship was meaningful and brought him steady companionship and comfort—a chapter he truly valued.
John was grateful for the help and visits from Jason & Maddi Thorpe, and their kiddos. Whether it was checking on the cattle, making him a bowl of chili, or grabbing the mail, their thoughtfulness meant so much. He looked forward to their check-ins—catching up on the new calves or getting the latest copy of the Tribune which was most often a fair exchange between he and the kids for a few pieces of candy, was often the highlight of his day.
John deeply appreciated his treasured nurse, Irene, who cared for him not only physically but spiritually as well. Her presence brought him comfort and peace during difficult times. He was also blessed with hospice nurses and attendants who provided exceptional care and companionship—often sitting with him to watch a rodeo or an episode of Ag News. Their kindness and dedication meant the world to him and his family.
John will be remembered for his strength, determination, and love for family and friends. Survivors include his children: Meleesa Grate and husband Dan of Manhattan, KS, and Jason Younggren and wife Monica of Louisburg, KS; four grandchildren: Maddi Pruett, Allea Ruby Davis and Gage (and their soon-to-arrive son), Alec Blayne, and Reece Adlin. He is also survived by his sister Connie Neil, brother Mike Younggren and wife Mary, and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother- in- law, Dwayne Neil and special friend Joann Hays.
John’s legacy lives on in the fields he worked, the land he shaped, and the family he loved. His hands built more than ponds and pastures—they built a life of purpose and pride.
Chaplain Derek Harman will conduct a funeral services at 1:30 p.m. on Wednesday, January 7. 2026 at Cheney Witt Chapel. Burial will follow in the Centerville Cemetery. The family will receive friends Tuesday from 5:00 – 7:00 P.M. at the Cheney Witt Chapel. Memorials are suggested to the Bourbon County Fair and may be left in care of the Cheney Witt Chapel, 201 S. Main, P.O. Box 347, Ft. Scott, Kansas 66701. Words of remembrance may be submitted to the online guestbook at cheneywitt.com.