Class of 1978 Hutchinson High School Memorial

10/15/2025

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06/22/2025

Brian Sauber Obituary

Brian Sauber, 64, Mechanical Engineer, died Tuesday, August 13, 2024. Rosary will be at 7:00pm, Thursday, August 22, 2024, Funeral Mass will be at 10:00 am, Friday, August 23, 2024, both at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church.

Preceded in death by his father, Emanuel Timothy Sauber; brother, Ronald Craig Sauber. Survived by his mother, Bettie Sauber; daughters, Emily (Robert "Ross") Jensby, Megan (Nickolas) Gauthier, Kathleen "Kat" Sauber; grandchildren, Elliana "Ellie" Jensby, Magdalena "Maggie" Jensby; brothers, Gary (LuAnn) Sauber, and Darold (Angela Stephens) Sauber.

A memorial has been established with: Habitat for Humanity, 130 E. Murdock Street, Suite 102, Wichita, KS 67214. Services in care of Downing & Lahey Mortuary - West Chapel.

01/31/2025

Steven Dean Stagner
November 23, 1960 - January 27, 2025

Steven Dean Stagner, 64, of South Hutchinson, died January 27, 2025, at his home. He was born November 23, 1960, in Wichita, Kansas to Burl and Betty (Barton) Stagner.

Steven attended Hutchinson High School and enlisted in the Army/National Guard where he received an honorable discharge. Steven worked for Collins Bus for 29 years and was a friend to many in the community. Steven's passion was for motorcycles, model trains and fishing. He also enjoyed going to concerts, and spending time with his grandkids. Steven was an enthusiastic music lover and when you were around him, there was never a dull moment. He was known and loved for his great personality and his sense of humor. His joyful spirit will be forever missed.

He is survived by: wife, Mindy Stagner of the home; his children, Walter Stagner (and his wife Amanda) of Garden City, Tim Stagner (and his wife Ausha) of South Hutchinson; sisters, Beverly Anderson, (Matt) of Colorado, Barb Callison (Richard) of Stafford, KS and Bonita Rankin (Gene) of Hutchinson; brother, Scott Stagner of South Hutchinson; granddaughters, Katie, Garden City; Hailey, Woodbury, MN, Abbie of South Hutchinson; grandson, Aaron of Garden City; nieces, nephews and extended family members.

Steven was preceded in death by: his father, Burl Stagner; mother, Betty Stagner (Barton).

Cremation has taken place, and a Celebration of Life service will be announced at a later date.
Friends may sign his memorial book from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday at Elliott Mortuary.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the Steven Stagner Memorial Fund, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501. To benefit the Steven Stagner Memorial Fund, please make the check payable to Elliott Mortuary.

10/17/2024

Dennis Michael Burns, 64, passed away unexpectedly October 16, 2024, at his home. He was born November 15, 1959, in Hutchinson, to Ralph and Renee (Smith) Burns.
Dennis graduated from Hutchinson High School, in 1978. He was a dedicated employee at Dillons Warehouse for over 30 years, and looking forward to retirement.
On September 3, 1983, Dennis married his high school sweetheart, Connie Postier, in Hutchinson. He was a devoted husband for 41 years, and a loving father to their daughter, Hannah.
Dennis is survived by: his wife, Connie Burns of Hutchinson; daughter, Hannah Burns of Wichita; siblings, Garth Burns, Colleen Drown, Bruce Burns, Mary Marvin, and Annette Nacsa; and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents and three brothers, Roger Burns, David Burns, and Mark Burns.
Memorial service will be 2:00 p.m. Friday, October 25, 2024, at Elliott Chapel. Friends may sign his book from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Elliott Mortuary. Cremation has taken place.
In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the American Heart Association, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

01/30/2024

Mr. Aldrich, who taught civics at Central Junior High, passed away on January 26, 2024.

Lynn James Aldrich

Family to receive friends
Tuesday, Jan 30, 2024
6:00 PM-8:00 PM

Funeral Service
Wednesday, Jan 31, 2024
10:00 AM

Lynn James Aldrich
August 23, 1940 - January 26, 2024

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Lynn James Aldrich, 83, died January, 26, 2024, at Legend of Hutchinson. He was born August 23, 1940, in Hutchinson, to James George and Eva Pearl (Shannon) Aldrich.

Lynn graduated from Hutchinson High School. He earned his master’s degree in education from Emporia State University. Lynn was a teacher for USD 308 for 38 years. Upon retirement, he became a volunteer for Kansas Operation LifeSaver for more than 15 years.

Lynn enjoyed watching westerns, especially “The Lone Ranger” or “The Roy Rogers Show”. He was a big sports fan. On Fridays you could find him watching WWE Smackdown, and the rest of the time any K-State or KC Chiefs games. Lynn loved having a good burger with his wife, Linda. While earning his masters’ degree in Emporia they frequented Blaylocks Café, which happened to be next to the train tracks. His father worked for Santa Fe, so from a young age Lynn was fascinated with all things train related. He was a member of numerous train groups, and developed lasting friendships with many of the other members. His faith was also important to him. He served as an elder at Crossroads Christian Church, and rarely missed a Sunday morning service.

On August 12, 1967, he married Linda Marie Springer, in Hutchinson. She survives.

Also surviving are: his children, Kristie Aldrich of Texas; Andrew (Rosita) Aldrich of Hutchinson; grandchildren, Eliza Aldrich, John Aldrich; brother, Dale (Maryann) Aldrich of Arizona; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by: his parents; grandparents; aunts; and uncles.

Funeral service will be 10 a.m. Wednesday, January 31, 2024, at Elliott Chapel. Private family inurnment to take place at Pleasant View Cemetery at Darlow.

Friends may sign his memorial book from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. with family present to receive friends from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday, January 30, 2024, at Elliott Mortuary.

Click Here To Watch Live Service

In lieu of flowers memorials are suggested to Parkinson’s Foundation or Great Plains Transportation Museum, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.

10/29/2023

Melanie Rauch (Cleveland) passed away on October 21st in Costa Mesa, CA.

Melanie Ann Cleveland
November 8, 1959 ~ October 21, 2023 (age 63)

Melanie Cleveland was born 11/8/1959 in Ness City, Kansas to Dean and Shirley Rauch and went to the arms of Jesus on 10/21/2023. Melanie is survived by her mother Shirley Rauch, her three sons Joshua, Jeremiah, and Jacob Cleveland, as well as five grandchildren Haley, Bradley, Heidi, Gwendolyn, and JD Cleveland.

Melanie was highly beloved by friends and family alike. She was a loving grandmother, mother, daughter, sister and loyal friend. She was also one heck of a great cook. She loved music and singing. She also liked the beach and a good family feud.

She was a one-of-a-kind beautiful soul that one hopes to encounter at least once in their life. She will be dearly missed by all who knew her. May she rest in peace.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Melanie Ann Cleveland, please visit our floral store.

10/29/2023

Robert 'Bob' Eugene Harris

April 27, 1937 - November 12, 2022

Robert “Bob” Eugene Harris, 85, passed away peacefully November 12, 2022 at Hospice House, Hutchinson, KS. He was born April 27, 1937 in Great Bend, KS, to John Francis Harris and Thelma Mae (Foreman) Harris.

Bob was a 1955 graduate of Great Bend High School. He attended Kansas State University for two years where he was a member of the Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity. He then transferred to Fort Hays State University where he majored in Biology graduating in 1959. Bob began his teaching career in Stafford, KS, where he taught General Science and coached football, basketball, and track in the junior high school for three years. From 1961 to 1967, he taught science and coached at Marie L. Hare Intermediate School in Garden Grove, CA. From 1968 to 1981, Bob taught Biology, Zoology, and coached football and swimming at Hutchinson High School. In 1980, he began working as an insurance agent for Ozark National Life & N.I.S. Financial Services. He retired in 2020 at the age of 83.

Bob was a lifetime member of the Church of Christ. In his many years at Eastwood, he taught Bible classes, led singing, served communion, and was head of the missionary program. He was frequently found talking to others about Christ whom he loved beyond measure. He definitely epitomized a life of servitude.

Throughout his life, Bob enjoyed hunting, fishing, and playing golf. Bob was an avid sports fan who followed the Kansas City Chiefs, the Kansas State University Wildcats, and the University of Kansas Jayhawks.

On October 31, 1958, he married the love of his life, Sandra Kay Cooper, in Great Bend, KS. They shared over 64 years of marriage, 3 children, 9 grandchildren, and 3 great-grandchildren.

Bob is survived by: his wife, Sandra of Hutchinson; children, Dan (Mitzi) Harris of Flower Mound, TX, Kim (Joe) Horsch of Goddard, KS, and Shelly (Darren) Watson of Hutchinson; grandchildren, Josh Hoefler, Jordan (Vanessa Jones) Hoefler, Chloe Harris, Kylie (fiancé, Zach Norton) Horsch, Jake (Makala) Horsch, Madison Harris, Logan Watson, Sean Harris, and Lucas Watson; great-grandchildren, Kannon Hoefler, Kyler Hoefler, and Kolby Grace Hoefler; and siblings, Roger (Magda) Harris and Rita (Keith) Morgan, all of Abilene, TX.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents, John and Thelma Harris.

Memorial service will be 2 p.m. Saturday, November 19, 2022, at Elliott Chapel, Hutchinson, with Wayne DeWindt officiating. Friends may sign the guest book from 9am to 5pm, Thursday, November 17, 2022, and Friday, November 18, 2022, at Elliott Mortuary. The memorial service can be viewed online by going to Bob’s obituary and selecting the “Click here to view the memorial service” link. Cremation has taken place.

Click here to view the memorial service.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the Eastwood Church of Christ, Hospice House, or Hospice & HomeCare of Reno County in care of Elliott Mortuary and Crematory, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.

https://www.elliottmortuary.com/obituary/robert-bob-harris

02/25/2023

Here's a little writeup on Charlene Lind and Kiki Cappony - both who have passed.

When Bob Lind passed away from COVID-19 complications in December 2020, a friendship that began during the heyday of two careers came to an end.

02/25/2023

French teacher Doris Vandergiesen has recently passed.

Doris VanderGiesen, 80, died Thursday February 23, 2023, at the Hillsboro Community Hospital, at Hillsboro, KS. She was born September 28, 1942, in Beloit, to Daniel and Lucile (Kimble) VanderGiesen.

Doris graduated from Downs High School, Downs, KS, in 1960. She earned her bachelor’s degree from Kansas Wesleyan University, Salina, in Education and French in 1964 and master’s degree from Wichita State University, Wichita, in secondary education in 1983. Doris taught four levels of French in the middle and high schools of Hutchinson, KS, for 39 years! During this time, she sponsored over 450 students to Europe, taking 18 trips. During the summers, she attended graduate classes in France, Canada, Hawaii and Kansas.

In 1985, Doris was named the Davis Foundation High School Teacher of the Year in Hutchinson. In 1998, she was selected as Kansas Foreign Language Teacher of the Year.

Doris was a member of Trinity United Methodist Church, Hutchinson, Altrusa International, the BL Chapter of PEO International and HARSPA. She was an avid golfer and walker, played a bit of poker and belonged to book clubs.

Doris is survived by: sisters, Bonnie Thompson, Elgin, IL, and Marsha (Robert) Voss, Georgetown, TX; nieces, Jana Thompson, Sara (Brian) Wildenradt, and Kellie (Jonathon) Pfertner; nephew, Derrick (Kristina) Voss; great-nephews, Charlie and Cameron Pfertner and Grant Voss; and great-nieces, Hannah and Emmerson Voss.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her beloved dog, Callie.

Celebration of Life will be 1:30 pm April, 28, 2023, at Trinity United Methodist Church, Hutchinson, with Reverend Dr. Kim Biery officiating. Private family inurnment will take place in the church columbarium. Family will greet friends after the service. Friends may sign the book from 9 am to 5 pm at Elliott Mortuary.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Trinity United Methodist Church or Hospice & HomeCare of Reno County, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.

SERVICES
Celebration of Life
Friday, April 28, 2023
1:30 PM

Trinity United Methodist Church
1602 N Main
Hutchinson, Kansas 67502

https://www.facebook.com/larry.ballard.9847/posts/pfbid02j6prAmkm7iee1GE5P23RUWM9w93BfUG7EyACLcniWL18iWSwM9sLGA11TSbgMkAcl

01/25/2023

The Blue & Gold is now 12/0
💙💛

12/10/2022

Scott David Conklin, Sr., 62, died December 8, 2022, surrounded by his family at Hospice House, Hutchinson. He was born February 17, 1960, in Hutchinson, to Stuart “Joe” Frazier and Mary Ann (Kaaz) Conklin.

Scott graduated from Hutchinson High School in 1978 and Kansas University with a Bachelors of Business Administration. He grew up working in the family business, Conklin Cars, started by his grandfather.

After graduating from KU, he returned to Hutchinson to work in the family business alongside his father and brothers, becoming a partner in 1982. On July 23, 1983, Scott married Kathryn Meeks of Kirkwood (St. Louis), MO. They enjoyed 39 years of marriage.

Scott became the “face” of Conklin Cars around 2005, taking over the advertising after his father passed away, though never becoming comfortable with the attention that brought. He served in various ways in the community, most recently serving on the board of the Hutchinson YMCA. While the family had a dealership location in Kansas City, MO, he served as president on MainCor, a revitalization and economic development board in the area. Gardening was a passion of Scott’s; he loved all kinds of plants and landscaping. Scott was an active member of Grace Bible Church, Hutchinson, where he led the ministry of Grace for Orphans. The church was where he most desired to serve due to his strong faith in the Lord Jesus Christ.

Scott is survived by: his wife, Kathryn “Kathy” Conklin of Hutchinson; children and grandchildren, Sarah Lill (Jeremy) and their children, Genevieve and Kate of Lawrence, KS, Mary Hoover (Tony) and their children, Emme and Penelope of Hutchinson, Scott Conklin, Jr. (Paige) and their children, Scott David III, Eloise, Josephine, and Arthur of Hutchinson; and Ann Conklin of Bentonville, AR; mother, Mary Ann Conklin of Hutchinson; siblings, Stuart F. Conklin (Fran) of Hutchinson, Steven A. Conklin of Watertown, WI, and Susan Fangman (Joe) of Houston, TX; numerous nieces and nephews; and countless friends.

He was proceeded in death by his father, Stuart “Joe” Conklin, Jr.

Funeral service will be 10:30 a.m. Thursday, December 15, 2022, at Grace Bible Church, 1221 E. 33rd, Hutchinson. Private family burial will take place following the service in Memorial Park Cemetery, Hutchinson. Friends may call from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday, with the family present from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Wednesday at Elliott Mortuary.

Scott’s full obituary can be viewed on Elliott Mortuary’s website. His service will be livestreamed by clicking on the link, https://www.youtube.com//streams.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Grace Bible Church (to benefit the Grace for Orphans program) or the Hutchinson YMCA, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.

10/27/2022

Memorial services for Richard M. Woodson, 87, Lawrence, will be held at 2:00 PM. Tuesday, November 1, 2022 at First United Methodist Church in Lawrence. Richard passed away on Wednesday, October 19, 2022, at Bridge Haven in Lawrence.
Richard was born on June 2, 1935, in Hutchinson, KS, the son of Wesley Edward and Sara Lois (Price) Woodson.
He married Carlee Penner on June 27, 1958, in Hutchinson, KS. She survives at the home.
Other survivors include his children, Debra Lynn (David) Luman, Craig Scott (Wendee) Woodson, eight grandchildren, Lindsey Shepley, Chris Luman, Jessica Rausch, Katie Berry, Parker Woodson, Ryan Woodson, Bayley Woodson, Chelsee Holden, and nine great-grandchildren.
Richard proudly served in the Armed Forces as an Army Medic and was stationed at Fort Leonard Wood, MO, Fort Sam Houston, TX and Fort Carson in CO. After his discharge, he followed his lifelong passion of being a teacher and a Coach. After a few stops, he found his true calling at Hutchison High School, where he coached both Basketball and Tennis among many things. He was also tasked with starting the first ever Women’s Basketball team, which he proudly accepted and then took them to a Championship level. While at Hutch, he won two state Championships, numerous top ten finishes, produced one All American, was both the State Coach of the year multiple times and the Kellogg’s National coach of the year. Richard was also voted into the Kansas Sports Hall of Fame.
After his coaching career, Woody, as his friends fondly called him, went on to be a tireless volunteer with the Lions Club of America, University of Kansas Relays and his Church among many other things that were important to him. Most of all Woody was a wonderful Grandfather and Great Grandfather to his family and left many lifelong lessons and memories for us all.
Richard was preceded in death by his parents, brothers, Robert Eugene Woodson, and Wesley E. Woodson.
Memorial contributions may be made in Richard’s name to the First United Methodist Church or the Lions Club of America and may be sent in care of Warren-McElwain Mortuary, 120 W. 13th Street, Lawrence, KS 66044.