All Obituaries

In loving memory of Rithvik Tadakamalla, who left us far too soon at the tender age of 18 years. He touched the lives of all who knew him with his bright smile and kind heart. Rithvik's vibrant spirit was evident in everything he did, from his love for cooking delicious meals to his dedication to staying fit and healthy through working out. He cherished the moments spent with his friends, always bringing laughter and joy to every gathering. He will be deeply missed by his...

William J. Joyce, aged 92, of Westwood, Kansas, passed away peacefully on May 1, 2024. He was born on December 29, 1931, in Red Cloud, Nebraska.  William dedicated 50 years of his life as a draftsman of commercial air conditioners, showcasing his commitment and skill in the industry. Apart from his professional endeavors, he found joy in working on cars and yardwork.  A faithful member of St. Agnes Catholic Church, William was also honorably discharged from the United States...

Annemarie’s family is appreciative of the tremendous outpouring of love and support shown to her over the last 11 years. She carried the challenges the tumors posed with grace and strength. Many may have been unaware of the subtle, or not so subtle, signs of her condition. Annemarie loved with great charity and passion. She was a marvelous cook and her personality would show through with a flair anytime she prepared meals for family or friends. She was generous with her time and...

Charles Gray, known for his quick wit and warm heart, passed away on April 30, 2024, in Overland Park, Kansas, at the age of 83. Born in Clarinda, Iowa, on April 18, 1941, Charles led a life filled with love, laughter, and a touch of mischief. As a skilled Carpenter by trade, Charles brought his craftsmanship and dedication to every project he undertook. When not hard at work with his tools, he could be found rooting for his favorite team, the Kansas City Chiefs, or engaging in some...

Christopher Jason Handzel was born on April 17, 1978, in Kansas City, KS. He passed away on April 29, 2024, at the age of 46. Chris graduated from Bishop Miege High School in Roeland Park, KS in 1996 and received his Bachelor's Degree in Landscape Architecture from Kansas State University in 2001. During his high school years, Chris excelled in both soccer and baseball, leading his teams to the state finals for the first time in school history. In 1996, he played a pivotal role in...

Barbara Ellen Mares, born on March 27, 1962, in Kenosha, Wisconsin, passed away on April 29, 2024, in Lenexa, Kansas, at the age of 62 unexpectedly.  Barbara led a remarkable life dedicated to helping others. As Area Director of American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) for Greater Kansas City, she tirelessly worked towards making a positive impact in her community both educating and comforting others about suicide. Prior to being Area Director, she worked with at risk youth...

Dale was the husband to Gloria (Fogarty) for 70 years.  He was the father to sons Phil (Leanne) and Mike (Kelli), grandfather to 5 and he had 8 great grandchildren.  He was preceded in death by his parents Clarence and Mary, three siblings and a daughter, Karen. Dale was born in Brownington, MO and graduated from Deepwater High School.  He hitchhiked to Kansas City where he got a job delivering milk to homes for the Country Club Dairy.  Soon after, he served in the...

John Bethel King, born on February 27, 1975, in Athens, GA, to the late Paul M. King, Sr., and late Virginia Bethel King, gracefully took his final bow on April 25, 2024, in Shawnee, KS, at the age of 49, closing the curtains on a life imbued with creativity and passion. Surrounded by an abundance of family and friends, John received a heartfelt 'Hero's Walk' just before his passing, a testament to his altruistic decision to be an organ donor. After graduating from Oconee...

Ronald (Ron) Lee Reece, age 80, passed away Wednesday, April 24, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. Ron was born and raised in Kansas City, KS, and was a proud graduate of Washington High School, where he was a member of the acapella choir (Go Wildcats!). After graduating, Ron served his country with honor in the United States Navy from 1963 to 1967, achieving the rank of Electronics Technician Petty Officer Third Class (ETR3). He was stationed in Coronado, CA, as part of Beachmaster...

Rene D. Engelken of Lenexa, Kansas, 93, died Tuesday, April 23, 2024. Rene was born on March 10, 1931 in Axtell, Kansas to Helen and Albert Engelken. He attended St. Benedicts Grade School and High School. On September 12, 1953, he married Mary E. Meyer. He was preceded in death by his wife, Mary, his parents, his brothers Quentin Engelken and Stephen Engelken, and his sisters Georgina Glissman and Irene Lawrence. He is survived by his children, Sheri Engelken (Dan Fratini), Richard...