Funeral services for Alden Robinson will be held on Friday, April 5, 2013, at 11 a.m. at Moorcroft Elementary Gymnasium.

Alden Carman Robinson, age 89, of Moorcroft, Wyoming, passed away Sunday, March 31, 2013, at Primrose Retirement Community.

Alden was born on November 9, 1923, at Robinson Ranch with the assistance of a midwife to Lucian Herbert (Herb) Robinson and Emily Sapp Robinson. He graduated from Moorcroft High School in 1943. On August 6, 1946, he married Effie Camp Nefsy. They began their life together on the Robinson family ranch which Alden had inherited with his brother in 1956 at the death of his grandfather Lucian Holbrook “L.H.” Robinson. In 1960, Alden purchased the HN ranch in Ranchester, Wyoming, in partnership with his brother Lucian. They operated the ranch together until 1962. Alden was a community minded man who served on many boards. These included the Wyoming Stock Growers, Crook County School Board and many local recreation boards. He was a founder and charter member of the Crook County Horseman’s Association. In 1972, along with his team roping partner, Speed Schlattmann, he won the Wyoming Stock growers Centennial Team Roping in Cheyenne as the Crook County team. With four interested citizens he charted the Moorcroft State bank, now Pinnacle Bank, and served on the board of directors for many years.

Alden is survived by his wife, Effie of 67 years; son, Doug Robinson; daughters, Pam (Earl) Jespersen, Dee (Tony) Nettles and Toni (Kelly) Kornemann; son, Justin (Lori) Robinson; and sister, Eloise McAllister; 10 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, brother, Lucian H. Robinson; sisters, Ardis Bisauta, Joyce Adler, and Beverly Swinton.

Memorials are suggested to the Moorcroft Fire Department or Robinson Park upgrade. Memorials and condolences may be sent in Alden’s name in care of Walker Funeral Home, 410 Medical Arts Court, Gillette, Wyoming 82716 or condolences via the internet at www.gillettememorialchapel.com

Services for Doramay Blakeman will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, April 12, 2013, at Black Hills National Cemetery near Sturgis, South Dakota. A reception and light lunch will follow from 12-1:30 p.m. at Hudson Street Hall, Room C, 222 W. Hudson, Spearfish, South Dakota, for those attending the service as well as those who wish remember Doramay with family and friends. A complete obituary appeared in last week’s paper.

Dolores Evelyn Hinz, 83, of Sundance, Wyoming, passed from this life on April 6, 2013, at the David M. Dorsett Healthcare Center in Spearfish, South Dakota.

Born December 19, 1929, in Bentley, North Dakota, to Andrew and Evelyn (Heth) Krause, she was the oldest of three children. The Krause family moved to Sheridan, Wyoming, when Dolores was very young. They homesteaded in the area and she received her schooling there, graduating from Sheridan High School in 1946. Immediately after, she became the secretary for Mr. Lewis at the Credit Bureau. She enjoyed her work there immensely and spoke fondly of that period many years later.

On June 16, 1950, Dolores was wed to Frederick L. Hinz at the old First Baptist Church where it then stood on Coffeen Avenue. One daughter and three sons were born to the couple. The couple lived in California for a brief period during this time, returning to Wyoming and then moving to Texas. While Fred attended college, Dolores served as secretary to the president of LeTourneau Tech.

The couple returned to Sheridan where Dolores enjoyed staying home for the first few years with the children. In the late ’50s, the couple built a new home on east 5th street. In 1963 they purchased a small acreage on Big Goose where the family lived until Dolores moved to Sundance in 2010. She shared her agricultural background with Fred and all. Her children learned to milk cows, feed market 4-H calves, breed a small band of sheep for market sales, feed out market hogs, chickens, turkeys, raise a garden, and much more.

In those years Dolores became an assistant to Sarah Voss at the Sheridan Employees Federal Credit Union. She was promoted to manager and worked in this occupation until she retired in 1987. She also served as secretary for the state credit union league.

Dolores was known for her cooking and baking and she taught her children many of these skills. She canned and froze much of the produce and meat raised by the family while serving as a 4-H leader, Sunday School teacher at First Baptist where she was an active member, and a member of the Postal Auxiliary. Her children think of her as the glue that held their very active family together.

Dolores was preceded in death by her parents; one brother, George Krause; and her husband of nearly 54 years, Fred, in 2004. She will be greatly missed and warmly remembered by her youngest brother, Elvern (Dianne) of Portland, Oregon; daughter, Suzette (Perry) Livingston and her children, John (Shannon) Moline, Rachael (Zac) Fross and Jenna Moline; son, DeWayne (Cathy) Hinz and their children, Jason Hinz (Lindsey Innis), Kirsten (Mason) Martens and Andrea (Miles) Pittsley; son, Gary (Susanne) Hinz and their children, Coreen (John) Kanet, Brinton (Allison) Hinz, Alaina (Craig) Houtz, Erin (Jerel) Bowen, Derek (Ashley) Schreinert, Ashley (Ryan) Koltiska and Kristin (Bob) Backscheider; son, Mark (Sharilyn) Hinz and their children, Jaren Hinz, Jonah Hinz, Joshua (Samantha) Lange and Amanda Lange. Dolores had 18 great-grandchildren.

Interment will take place at the Oregon State Trail Veterans Cemetery in Casper, Wyoming, where she will be laid to rest with her husband. A memorial service and celebration of life were held on Saturday, April 13, 2013, at the First Baptist Church in Sheridan. Memorials may be sent to Camp Bethel. PO Box 70, Dayton, WY 82836.

Arrangements are under the care of Fidler-Roberts & Isburg Funeral Chapel of Sundance. Online condolences may be written at www.fidler-isburgfuneralchapels.com

Neil C. Thompson, 84, of Upton, Wyoming, died Wednesday, April 18, 2013, at Wyoming Medical Center in Casper, Wyoming, after a long, well-lived life.

Neil was born January 24, 1929, at the family ranch south of Upton to Clarence and Bernice (Sheldon) Thompson. He was the fourth child of seven children. He was educated at the Douglas-Fulton School, which was moved and then called the Chapman School, until he went to Upton High School, graduating in 1946.

Neil married his sweetheart, Georgia Mae Materi, on November 23, 1949, in a double ring ceremony with her brother, Dean Materi and his bride, Wanda Canfield. Neil rose to the rank of sergeant in the US Army, serving his country from 1951 to 1953.

Neil and Georgia Mae raised seven children, Aneilia (Mark) Snider of Gillette, Wyoming, Julie (Cliff) Abbott of Upton, Kathy (Gene) Watt of Heaven, John (Denise) Thompson, and Pam (Jim) Locke of Upton, Corinne (Andrew) Sigala of Douglas, Wyoming, and Brent (K.D.) Thompson of Upton. He is also grandfather to nineteen grandchildren, Jamie (Dan) Wade, Jessie (Teague) Becker, Greg (Ellen) Locke, Nick Watt, Becky (Tracy) Hadlock, Darcee Snider, Shane Thompson, Audra Locke, Jillian (Travis) Tharp, Tyler Abbott, Shelby (Kyle) Slater, Matt Sigala, Courtney Sigala, Katelyn Sigala, Caleb Thompson, Corbin Thompson, Adan Sigala, Dylan Thompson, Ashley Baillo; and great-grandfather to 20 great-grandchildren. Also a part of his life is his special companion and dancing partner, Wanda Materi; brothers, Ernest (Gertrude) Thompson, Truman Thompson, Stanley (Eileen) Thompson; sisters, Kathryn (David) Holwell, Clarice (Jack) Pridgeon; and many nieces, nephews, cousins and a host of friends.

During his lifetime, Neil was very active in Farm Bureau, a 4-H leader for over 25 years, served on the Upton school board, a volunteer fireman and an EMT for many years, taught hunter safety course, was a member of St. Anthony’s Catholic Church, a member of the Knights of Columbus and charter member of the Upton Gun Club. Neil was a rancher with his brother, Ernest, for 15 years, held numerous positions in the oilfield and ran Thompson Ditching for many years.

Neil was welcomed into Heaven by his wife, his daughter and son-in-law, his parents, and his sister, Leone Nolan.

A Rosary will be held at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, April 24, 2013, at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church in Upton, followed by a Wake and Celebration of Life at 7:30 p.m. at the Upton Senior Center. Memorial Mass will be at 11 a.m. on Thursday, April 25, 2013, at the Upton Community Center with luncheon to immediately follow.

Arrangements are under the care of Fidler-Roberts & Isburg Funeral Chapels of Sundance, WY. Online condolences may be written to www.fidler-isburgfuneralchapels.com

Wanda Arlene Fretwell, 90, Newcastle, Wyoming, died Saturday, April 27, 2013, at her home.

Wanda was born July 11, 1922, in Newcastle to Louis and Martha (Davis) Billings. She had many different jobs throughout her lifetime. She was a beautician and went on to become an instructor in Cosmetology. She later managed and owned a motel in Healdsburg, California, for several years.

She was a good mother and family was the most important thing to her. She dearly loved her children, step children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was always there for a friend or stranger in a time of need. She loved to dance, enjoyed a good morning or evening walk and was always full of energy. She was loved by all her family and will be dearly missed by all who knew her.

Survivors include a son, Jerry (June) Brester, Santa Rosa, California; a daughter, Sandra (Larry Dean) Bock; six grandchildren, Scott Brester, Wanda Brester, Teresa Gilman, Gerald Brester and Weston Bock; 18 great grandchildren; two brothers, Louis Billings, Washington and Ray Billings, Upton, Wyoming, and a sister, Susan Tate, Oregon.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Jack Fretwell; a grandson, Corey Dean Bock and two granddaughters, Karie Lyn Brester and Eva Marie Bock.

Upon her request cremation has taken place and services will be held at a later date.

Memorial donations may be made to the Weston County Children’s Center in Newcastle.

Friends and family may sign her online guest register and leave written condolences at www.blackhillsfuneralhome.com

Funeral services for Leland Landers were held Saturday, May 4, 2013, at the Gillette Christian Center with Pastor Clint Pickrel officiating. Burial followed in the Mt. Pisgah Cemetery.
Leland Rees Landers, age 93, of Gillette, Wyoming, passed on to his reward with his loved ones by his side on Monday, April 29, 2013, at Close To Home Hospice.
Leland was born on April 16, 1920, in Norfolk, Nebraska, to Leland G. and Mildred Price (Rees) Landers. Leland’s father stayed on the family ranch in Crook County, Inyan Kara Creek area, north of Upton, until Leland and his mother could join him in October 1920. They lived on the Inyan Kara Ranch until 1924. Then they moved to a small ranch in the Black Flats area near Sundance. Leland attended the Black Flats School until 1934. Leland’s sister Mildred remembered that Leland would tell wonderful make-believe animal stories on the 2½ mile horseback rides to and from school. In 1934, the family moved into Sundance where he played football and completed his education. After graduating from Sundance High School in May of 1939; he went on to further his education by attending the University of Wyoming where he joined the ROTC and graduated from the College of Agriculture with a Bachelor’s Degree in Agriculture and a Master’s Degree in Soil Science. Leland married his High School sweetheart, Gladys Pattinson, on March 20, 1942, in Laramie, Wyoming, and stayed in Laramie to continue their college education. On February 6, 1943, Leland was inducted into the Army. He was sent overseas with the 100th Infantry Division 397th Infantry Regiment on October 6, 1944. A shrapnel injury, for which he would receive the Purple Heart Medal, wounded him on December 11, 1945, but he soon returned to his unit in February 1946. During his time of service he also received the Combat Infantryman Expert Infantryman badge, American Service Medal, European African Middle Eastern Service Medal, and the Bronze Star Medal. In 1949, Leland was called back into active duty with the Army where he served until he was honorably discharged in 1952. On his return home, Leland and Gladys moved to Wheatland, Wyoming where he commuted to Laramie to complete his Master’s Degree in Science. On July 1, 1947 he and his wife moved to Gillette, where he became Superintendent of the University of Wyoming Experimental Farm. They remained there until the University of Wyoming closed the farm in August 1980. During that time Leland planted 800 to 1,200 plots of different grasses and crops each year to test which ones thrived best in the northeast Wyoming climate. He also grazed cattle on the various grasses to see which types produced the best results. During his tenure at the Experimental Farm Leland planted hundreds of trees that we all enjoy today at the Cam-Plex Park. His fondness for planting trees continued throughout his life. In June 1949, Leland became a member of the Lion’s Club and, at the time of his death, he was the oldest person in the club’s Gillette Chapter. In addition to being the oldest member, he also had the distinction of being the longest serving Lion, with 64 years of service. Leland also worked in the field of meteorological observations from 1954 to 1995 where he kept track of temperatures and precipitation for the National Weather Service. In 1991, he received the John Campanius Holm award for outstanding accomplishments in the field of meteorological observations. Leland enjoyed being a private pilot and bought his first plane on Aug. 20 1954: a Taylorcraft from John Kluver. He completed his Advanced Pilot Education Course on June 28, 1964. He enjoyed flying his planes such as the Taylorcraft, Aeronica, Cessna 140, and a couple Piper PA-22s. He truly enjoyed nature and would plant trees every year with enthusiasm. A lifelong learner, Leland was intrigued by wildlife, geology and the formation of the land. His curiosity and adventurous spirit frequently led Leland to travel near and far, as he enjoyed driving around Wyoming as much as traveling abroad. After his service in Europe during WWII ended, he embarked on a solo walking tour of Europe during which he searched out his family roots. Leland was definitely a renaissance man who had a broad range of intellectual interests from the outdoors to the fine arts. Music of all kinds was important to him and he loved going to plays and musicals, listening to the Gillette Chamber Singers, and even took guitar lessons at the age of 88. Leland was a very caring man and loved being with family and friends. He was energized by being around children and watching all their various activities from just running and playing around, to going to the rodeos and dance competitions they were involved with. In his last few years he especially enjoyed watching Carson ride his ponies while competing in ranch sorting.
Leland is survived by his brother, David Landers of Loveland, Colorado; numerous nephews and nieces; his adopted family, the Martinsons of Gillette; along with many close friends.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Gladys; and sister, Mildred Durfee.
In lieu of flowers memorials may be sent in his name. Memorials and condolences may be sent in care of Gillette Memorial Chapel, 210 W. 5th Street, Gillette, Wyoming 82716 or condolences via the internet at www.gillettememorialchapel.com

Martha VanderVorst, 87, of Gettysburg, South Dakota, passed away Monday, April 29, 2013, at Firesteel Healthcare Center in Mitchell, South Dakota.
Funeral services were Saturday, May 4, 2013, at the United Methodist Church, Gettysburg, with Pastor Jeff Adel officiating. Burial followed in the Gettysburg Cemetery.
Martha E Siegle VanderVorst was born to Gottfried and Annetta Isaak Siegle on July 13, 1925, south of Pollock. She was educated in the Riverview School, Campbell County, South Dakota, and as a young girl was confirmed in the Pollock/Herreid Lutheran Church. She often spoke of her childhood growing up as the middle child with eleven loving brothers and sisters. She spoke of her early years working with her Dad and brother Adolph and riding the special family horse Beauty. During her life journey, she enjoyed time with each sibling during family reunions.
On April 25, 1949, she married Oliver H. VanderVorst in Eagle Butte, South Dakota, and they began a lifetime of farming. While in Eagle Butte, their children Donna, Rhonda, and Wayne were born, raised, and educated. Martha was an active member of the United Church of Christ and a longtime member of the Green Grass Extension Club. She enjoyed working with children in Sunday School, Vacation Bible School and serving as a 4-H Club and Cub Scout Leader. July 1968 she was featured as Farm Wife of the Week by the Aberdeen American News.
In 1972 the VanderVorsts purchased a home in Gettysburg and in 1974 began farming in Potter County. Following marriage, she would spend the next fifty-one years farming with Oliver and her family. She was an active member of the United Methodist Church in Gettysburg and cooked in the Gettysburg Memorial Hospital for ten years. She was an accomplished German cook, baker and gardener and it was a given she would share a plate at the table. She enjoyed visiting with family and friends in her German language. April 2000 she suffered a major stroke and on July 13 she moved to the Oahe Care Center where she resided until November 14, 2011, when she moved to Firesteel Healthcare Center in Mitchell.
If Martha was to share today, her story to tell would be of the love she felt and the love she freely gave. Strong faith, a smile, honesty and sincerity would tell the story of accepting one day at a time.
Martha is survived by her children, Donna (Jerry) Wulf of Plankinton, South Dakota, Rhonda (Kelly) Dennis of Moorcroft, Wyoming, and Wayne (Cathy) VanderVorst of Gettysburg; special friend, Melissa (Leland) LeBeau and family of Eagle Butte; brother, Ray (Jean) Siegle of Aberdeen, South Dakota; sister, Freda Hager of Fargo, North Dakota; sisters-in-law, Marilyn Siegle of Citrus Heights, California, and Betty VanderVorst of Pollock; nine grandchildren and thirteen great-grandchildren including, Kimberly (Michael) Beens, Chaz, Shaynie and Lacey, Karla (Pat) Morgan, Anthony, Whitney, Mitch, Patrick, Cody (Kristy) Dennis, Kayla, Alicia, Lindsey, Colby, Wade Dennis, Bill VanderVorst, Tanner; Mindy (Cody) Stotz, Brylee, Kyle, Brandon, Morgan VanderVorst. She also cherished her many nephews and nieces.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Oliver in April 2000; Karla’s husband, A.W. “Bill” Baum III in 2005; brothers, William in infancy, Adolph and Robert; sisters and spouses, Edna (Art) Heckelsmiller, Esther (Henry) Giese, Helen (Art) Dienert, Ruth Siegle, Ernie (John) Braun, Lorraine Grote, Bessie (Jake) Fuhrer; and brothers-in-law, Mike Hager and Wilfred VanderVorst.
Luce Funeral Home of Gettysburg has been entrusted with Martha’s arrangements. www.familyfuneralhome.net

Charles Smith of Pine Haven, Wyoming, passed away Sunday, March 17, 2013, as the result of an automobile accident.
Survivors include his parents, Dan and Charleen Smith of Douglas, Wyoming; son, Dylan Smith (Paige Pamminga) of Dickinson, North Dakota; daughters Ashley Smith (Joe Davis) and Dreana Catron (Will) and grandson Gabe of Las Vegas, Nevada; girlfriend, Elizabeth Buck of Pine Haven and her sons Adam Buck of Pine Haven, Matt Buck of Gillette, Wyoming, and Justin Mutter of Fort Collins, Colorado; brother, Kim Smith (Karen) of Nampa, Idaho; sister Dannette Cheney (Mike Woodruff) of Gold Canyon, Arizona; and many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
A celebration of life and inurnment will be held May 24, 2013, at 2 p.m. at the Black Hills National Cemetery, Sturgis, South Dakota. Cars will be asked to line up at the Veteran’s Park across the interstate by 1:30 p.m. so that we can enter the cemetery in a line.
A luncheon will be served by the Sturgis Women’s Auxiliary following the ceremony at the Veteran’s Club, located at 868 Main Street, in Sturgis.
Online condolences may be written at www.fidler-isburgfuneralchapels.com

Florence M, Stagemeyer, 75, Sundance, Wyoming, died Thursday, May 9, 2013, at Rapid City Regional Hospital.

Florence was born on November 5, 1937, to Walter and Vera (Hultenschimdt) Davis in Belle Fourche, South Dakota. She was raised and attended school in Belle Fourche. She married Charles “Bud” Stagemeyer on March 2, 1955, in Belle Fourche. They moved to Sundance, where they raised their family. Florence loved being a homemaker and taking care of her family. She enjoyed camping, various crafts and the many years she spent cooking at the school.

Florence is survived by her husband, “Bud” of Sundance; children, Bonnie (Shane) Barney of Sheridan, Wyoming, Loretta (Charles) Durfee, Audrey (Marvin) Finn, Roy (Linda) Stagemeyer and Karen (Keith) Bennett, all of Sundance; 14 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; and two brothers, Tom and Earl Davis, both of Belle Fourche. She was preceded in death by her parents, a brother and two sisters.

Funeral services were Tuesday, May 14, 2013, at Fidler-Roberts and Isburg Funeral Chapel, with Pastor John Burns officiating. Burial followed at Green Mountain Cemetery near Sundance.

Arrangements are under the care of Fidler-Roberts and Isburg Funeral Chapel of Sundance. Online condolences may be left at www.fidler-isburgfuneralchapels.com

Frankie “Dee” Fowlkes, 63, of Sturgis, South Dakota, passed away May 9, 2013, at his home following a sudden illness. He was born November 16, 1950, in Belle Fourche, South Dakota, to Frank and Irene (Mowry) Fowlkes. The family lived in Hulett, Wyoming, Newell, South Dakota, and then moved to Sturgis in 1959.

Dee grew up in Sturgis, and excelled in basketball, graduating from Sturgis High School in 1969, and joining the Army National Guard. In 1970 he married his high school sweetheart, Catherine Tennis, and to this union came his son, Collin. Dee was a small-business owner, carpenter, and entrepreneur. He had a deep love for the Lord, and strove to continually grow in his walk with Christ. He was well known for his compassion and willingness to help anyone in need, and was quick to give an outstretched hand to friends and strangers alike. Dee was a life-long resident of the Black Hills, loved Sturgis, and enjoyed the company of Rally guests that were lucky enough to find space in his home or yard.

Dee is survived by his mother, Irene Fowlkes of Sturgis; ex-wife, and long-time friend, Catherine Brink of Spearfish, South Dakota; son, Collin Fowlkes and his wife Elise of Spearfish; grandson and light of his life, Terrel Benne of Englewood, Ohio; his brother, Chuck and his wife Ula of Sturgis; his sisters, Shirley Harris of Sturgis, and Ann “Toy” Molk of Billings, Montana. Dee is survived by numerous nieces and nephews and shared his love and compassion with many foster children.

He was preceded in death by his father, Frank.

Services were held Wednesday, May 15, 2013, at the Cross Roads Assembly of God Church in Sturgis. Interment followed at Moore Hill Cemetery in Hulett.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Terrel Benne Education Fund.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.kinkadefunerals.com

Jackie L. Eatherton, 69, of Sundance, Wyoming, passed away May 8, 2013, at her home.

Jackie Louise Stolhand was born to Lloyd “Red” and Florence (Bebe) Stolhand on June 17, 1943, in Ponca City, Oklahoma. Jackie was the oldest child of four. Her three younger brother’s, Jerry Stolhand, Michael Stolhand and Allen Stolhand were her life-long friends, sharing countless childhood adventures as they moved to a number of different towns and several states. Their family travels landed them in Upton, Wyoming during Jackie’s senior year of high school, where she met and married Jack Eatherton on October 5, 1962, and spent the next 50-years practicing the age-old adage of growing deep roots to stand the test of time.

Jackie’s adventures would take her to Mexico with family and friends for deep sea fishing and beach combing; to massive cities on corporate business trips where she would dress to the nines and eat escargot; to fairs and stock shows where she was horse show mom, sheep washer or gopher; and on fishing trips to back wood streams where she had no problem bringing home the trout and frying it up in the pan…after she cleaned it. She would raise a flock of award winning Suffolk sheep with her family, at the same time she was growing a successful floral business, supporting her husband through his business ventures, and raising two children, Eric and Traci.

Jackie’s first married home would be in Casper, Wyoming. In 1973, Jackie and her family moved to Steamboat Springs, Colorado. In 1985, Jack and Jackie purchased their ranch in Sundance. While she loved each place she lived in, she also had a passion for her birth state that never weaned…between the family and friends she remained close to and her beloved Sooner football team, she was red and white to the core. But at each place she would call home, she made countless friends, and despite a brain aneurism in 1999, breast cancer in 2009, and her first bout of pneumonia earlier this year, she always had a smile and a “glass-half-full” attitude.

In 1990, her first Grandson, Ryan was born, and she claimed to have found her last and favorite job title…Grandma. Ryan would be followed by Jadi, Corbin, and Caitlynn, her four favorite topics.

Jackie is survived by her husband, Jack, of Sundance; her son, Eric and his wife Brenda in Utah; her daughter, Traci in Colorado; grandsons, Ryan and Corbin; granddaughters, Jadi and Caitlynn; brothers, Jerry and wife LouAnn Stolhand, Michael and wife Kathy Stolhand, Allen and wife Sharon Stolhand; along with 10 nieces and nephews that she adored and relished in her role as “Aunt Jackie.”

Funeral services were Monday, May 13, at Fidler-Isburg Funeral Chapel in Spearfish, South Dakota, with burial following at Rose Hill Cemetery in Spearfish. In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established to benefit Relay for Life.

Arrangements are under the care of Fidler-Isburg Funeral Chapels and Crematory Service of Spearfish. Online condolences may be written at www.fidler-isburgfuneralchapels.com

Darlene L. Claycomb passed peacefully on May 10, 2013, with her children by her side.

Darlene was born in Ft. Morgan, Colorado, on August 12, 1939, to Herman and Henrietta (Hattie) Stumpf. Arriving just minutes after her twin sister Arlene, Darlene was the fourth of seven children. The family resided in Cheyenne, Wyoming, where Darlene was a quiet, artistic girl whose wild imagination made her quite creative.

It was Darlene’s big blue eyes that attracted Dick Claycomb to her the day after both graduated from Cheyenne High School in the spring of 1957. In February 1958, Darlene and Dick became lifelong partners, spending their first seven years together working and traveling the rodeo circuit. In 1964, their daughter Tracy was born followed two years later by son Troy. The family resided in Ten Sleep, Greybull, and Laramie before moving to Hulett in1973 where they fell in love with the area. In 1982, they moved to Upton and later to Lusk before returning to Upton in 1996 to celebrate retirement.

Darlene worked in banking and insurance across the state. She was in bookkeeping at American National Bank in Cheyenne, was a teller at Wyoming National Bank in Casper, and was head of the proof department at Laramie’s First National Bank. Darlene also worked at AGI Insurance in Upton and at Farm Bureau Insurance in Lusk. In her spare time, she served as Adult Education Coordinator in Upton.

For the past 20 years, Darlene’s second home was a remote and rustic northern Saskatchewan cabin. She spent every spring packing and preparing so as soon as the ice melted from the lake, she and Dick could head north with their boat and several months’ worth of supplies. There, Darlene spent her summers at water’s edge watching loons, writing, reading, painting, fishing, boating, and enjoying God’s creation. Her time there only got better when her family – particularly her grandchildren – came to visit.

Darlene’s signature gifts to others were her contagious smile and sparkling eyes, followed closely by her quick wit and keen – and often edgy – sense of humor. She was fun and she was funny. Her kind heart and creative mind made everything she touched beautiful – from the warmth of her home, to the tranquility of her yard and gardens, to her oil paintings and photography, to the clever ways she connected with her grandchildren. She taught us all what it means to have a true servant’s heart in the quiet ways she put the needs of others ahead of her own. She never spared her time, compassion, or generosity.

More than anything, Darlene loved spending time with her family. From large family gatherings at her parents’ house where there was always a raucous card game, to family camping and fishing trips with her parents and in-laws, to hunting trips and Thanksgiving feasts at our home in Hulett, Darlene thrived on family time. She particularly enjoyed what became an annual gathering of her children and grandchildren at some remote location across the West.

In later years, Darlene’s grandchildren were her greatest joy, and their relationship with her was particularly special. She was their most faithful fan, attending innumerable sporting events, school performances, and piano recitals, even when her health was failing. Whatever their activity, Darlene genuinely believed her grandkids performed best, and she was proud to brag about them. Some of the grandkids’ favorite memories with “Gram Cracker,” as she was affectionately known, include “mail call,” midnight trips to the kitchen for cake, Grandma’s craft time, her ability to get close enough to catch a bunny and pet a deer, the pure joy she got from pranking the kids into believing concrete yard ornament deer in her garden were real, and Grandma faithfully reading to them.

To her husband, she was the best of the best – a beautiful, creative, loyal, hard-working wife. She was honest, fun-loving, and positive; she was the glue that held everything together, and she will be missed every day. To her children, Darlene was a devoted and loving mother who shaped and taught them strong morals, a solid work ethic, respect, responsibility, and kindness. Darlene empowered her children through her high expectations, and by dreaming with them, supporting them, and having every confidence in them. Above all, Darlene’s greatest legacy is her family. She loved two children, five grandchildren, and just one man, and she gave them love without limit.

Darlene is survived by her husband of 55 years, Dick; their two children, Tracy Oneale (Evin) and Troy Claycomb (Cheri); and five grandchildren, Sophie, Lainee and Jess Claycomb, and Maureen and Emery Oneale. She is also survived by her mother Hattie Stumpf; her siblings Norma Brown, Herman Stumpf, Arlene Keuck (Rich), Joyce White, and Tom Stumpf; sister-in-law Peggy Gibb (Dugan) and brother-in-law Don Claycomb; and many nieces and nephews. Her father Herman Stumpf and brother Ed Stumpf passed earlier.

Darlene’s brave and cheerful outlook carried her through life, and that was most evident the past three years. As she reminded us often, “Everything is going to be just fine.”

Darlene’s faith was strong, and she knew that peace at water’s edge in God’s kingdom awaited her. She was a beloved daughter, sister, aunt, wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. Forever she will be in our thoughts and memories, and we will miss her deeply.

A memorial service celebrating Darlene’s life will be held at 2 p.m. on Monday, May 27, 2013, at the Upton Community Center, with a reception to follow.

Arrangements are under the direction of Worden Funeral Directors, Newcastle, Wyoming. Contributions may be made in memory of Darlene to the Upton Ambulance Fund, P.O. Box 278, Upton, Wyoming.

Funeral services for Almeda Minnie Allen were held on Monday, May 6, 2013, at the Curtis-Britch-Converse-Rushford Funeral Home in Newport, Vermont, with the Reverend Richard Whitehill officiating. Interment followed in Pine Grove Cemetery, Newport. Mrs. Allen died on April 28, 2013, at the age of 105.
She was born on September 20, 1907, in Holland, Vermont, the daughter of Fritz and Ida (Forbes) Osgood. She married Howard C. Allen on December 24, 1925, and they had two sons – Howard Jr. and Edward.
Mrs. Allen was a sales clerk for the former Fishman’s Store and bookkeeper for the Montgomery Ward Store in Newport for over 30 years, retiring in 1971. Following the death of her husband in 1971, she and her son Edward moved to Sundance, Wyoming, where they resided until their return to Vermont in 1975. She loved to read, to go trout fishing and deer hunting at their camp in Coventry. She also enjoyed knitting, sewing, crocheting, and traveling.
She is survived by her son, Edward Allen of Newport; daughter-in-law, Donna Allen of Sundance; grandchildren, Jill Mackey of Sundance, Melody (Rich) Toth of Upton, Wyoming, and James (Tammy) Allen of Sundance; seven great-grandchildren; six great-great-grandchildren and nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Howard; son, Howard Jr.; grandson, Howard Allen III; half-brothers, Norman and Clayton Smith; sisters, Nettie Vancour and Amy Lamb; and half-sister, Blanche Brooks.

Dwain Galloway, 70, of Grand Mound, Iowa, died Tuesday evening, May 14, 2013, at University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, Iowa.
Funeral services were Saturday, May 18, 2013, in the Funeral Home. Pastor Chuck Kelsey officiated. Burial followed at Evergreen Cemetery, Grand Mound, Iowa.
Pallbearers were Jeremy Coates, Clif Norberg, Chris Grell, Jay Hawthorne, Owen Boedeker, Dave Carson, Dennis Galloway, and Kelly Noel. Honorary pallbearers were Justin Knight, Brandon Galloway, Jakob Galloway, and Samuel Henningsen.
Harold Dwain Galloway was born June 30, 1942, in Elwood, Iowa, to Harold and Earline (Riggs) Galloway. He was raised and attended school in Grand Mound, Iowa. Dwain married his high school sweetheart, Carol Dammerman, on August 6, 1961. He spent the majority of his working years as an owner/operator truck driver, and in the building trade. Dwain still enjoyed driving truck locally, even after retirement.
He enjoyed his acreage, loved camping and hunting with his family, watching the Hawkeyes and Da Bears, and riding his Harley. Dwain had many special friends that he enjoyed spending time with. Most of all he loved his wife, his children, and his grandchildren.
Surviving are his loving wife of nearly 52 years, Carol; children, Scott (Kelly) Galloway and Wendi (Josh) Mitchell all of DeWitt; grandchildren, Brandon and Jakob Galloway, and Samuel Henningsen; step-grandchildren, Justin and Amanda Knight; step-great-granddaughters, Aubrey and Alex; brothers, Gerald (Barb) Wirth, Earl (Jo), Don (Jan), Larry (Pat), Roger (Linda), Al (Pam), Russ (Marilyn), Jim (Bev), and Geff Galloway; sisters, Darlene Simmons, Rhea (Merwyn) Hasenmiller, Barb (Ken) Schroeder, Marcia (Ronnie) Barten, and Linda Miller; also survived by his beloved mother-in-law, Louise Lichtenstein and brothers-in-law Dennis (Marsha) Dammerman, and Randy (Joanne) Burmester, and many loving nieces, nephews, and Pat Dammerman, Viola Dammerman, and Russ and Leona Fey.
He was preceded in death by his parents, and father-in-law, Morris Dammerman.
Condolences may be expressed and a photo tribute viewed at www.schultzfuneralhomes.com

Charles Theodore Kelsey, Jr., age 88, of Hot Springs, South Dakota, passed away May 16, 2013, at the Custer Regional Senior Care in Custer, South Dakota.
Charles was born May 9, 2013, at Glady, West Virginia, to Charles T. Kelsey, Sr. and Nola (Bennett) Kelsey.
He proudly served his Country in the United States Navy.
Survivors include his sons, Charles Kelsey, III of Hot Springs, Marvin (Peg) Kelsey of Rapid City, South Dakota, Aaron Kelsey of Anchorage, Alaska, Adam (Yun Lui) Kelsey of Phoenix, Arizona; daughter, Melissa (Jonathan) O’Brien of Phoenix; brothers, Ronald (Lana) Kelsey of Fredericksburg , Maryland, Jarel (Rhonda) Kelsey of Fredericksburg, Roger (JoAnn) Kelsey of Scranton, Pennsylvania, Kenneth (Diane) Kelsey of Reno, Nevada; 18 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren and one great great-grandchild.
Committal services will be held at 10:30 a.m., Saturday, May 25, 2013, at the Black Hills National Cemetery near Sturgis, South Dakota, with Rev. Morris Nelson officiating.
In lieu of flowers a memorial has been established in Charles’ name to benefit the Hot Springs Senior Center.
Arrangements have been placed in the care of McColley’s Chapel of the Hills in Hot Springs. Written condolences may be made at www.mccolleyschapels.com.

Marylou Tschetter, 70 of Sundance, Wyoming, passed away on Thursday, May 16, 2013, at the Crook County Memorial Hospital.
Funeral Services were Monday, May 20, 2013, at the Sundance United Methodist Church with Pastor Norman Wacker officiating.
A memorial has been established to benefit the Sundance Senior Citizens Center.
Marylou was born June 29, 1942, to Marion “Curly” and Frances (Penney) McLaughlin in Sundance. She attended school in Sundance and graduated from Sundance High School in 1960, where she was a cheerleader. She married Fred D. Tschetter on March 19, 1960. Marylou worked at the Sundance School as a cook, the Crook County Sheriff’s office as a dispatcher and secretary and at Dillion’s Hardware. She enjoyed summers at Keyhole Reservoir with family and friends, golfing, bowling, snowmobiling, playing Canasta and board games, her trips to Deadwood and cherished the time she spent with her family. Marylou put family first and never missed an opportunity to attend the events of her children and that of her grandchildren. Marylou also enjoyed raising flowers, which she admired one day a little too much and got a little too close to the garage door with the car. She will be dearly missed by her family.
Grateful to have shared in her life is her husband, Fred D. Tschetter of Sundance; son, Brad (Connie) Tschetter of Sundance and their children, Wes (Connie), Jill and Amy (Bryce); daughter, Lori Hartl (Rick Magnuson) of Gillette and her children, Stephanie (Nick) and Drew (Leslie); son, Scott (Debbie) Tschetter of Belle Fourche and their children, Brianne (Joe), Cortney (Caleb) and Haley; daughter, Kristy Stoddard of Gillette and her children, Brooke, Miranda and Corinne; and 12½ great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents; and two brothers, Larry and David “Swede” McLaughlin.
Arrangements are under the care of Fidler-Roberts & Isburg Funeral Chapel of Sundance. Online condolences may be written at www.fidler-isburgfuneralchapels.com

Terry Wiechert, 66, of Sundance, Wyoming, died peacefully due to a health related illness on Friday, May 17, 2013, at Crook Country Memorial Hospital.
Terry came into this world on March 9, 1947, in East St. Louis, Illinois, and was raised by William and Helen M. (Bowers) Ellard. He grew up in Washington where he attended several schools and later graduated from Port Townsend High School in 1964. After high school he went to work as a fisherman, salmon troller and then a truck driver hauling logs. Terry was drafted into the US Army in 1967 and went through basic training in Ft. West, Texas. He served in Vietnam and was in Germany while in the Army, and was honorably discharged in 1969. Following his service in the Army, Terry went to work for a pipeline company in Minnesota and then moved to and explored Wyoming.
In August of 1971, Terry went to work for the Wyoming Highway Department where he spent many years plowing snow, operating the transport truck and running heavy equipment for road maintenance and construction projects. Terry retired from the Wyoming Department of Transportation in June of 2012 after 41 years of service for the traveling public.
Terry had a love for the outdoors, fishing, hunting and shooting guns. He was an avid firearm collector, a gunsmith and made a lifelong hobby out of this passion. Terry was also very fond of vehicles and mechanics, particularly if it could be made into a “hot rod”. Terry once put a Cadillac motor in a Chevy, the only car his father made him get rid of because that vehicle ran too fast. He continued to purchase and trade hot rod cars throughout his life. Terry served as a commander of the Devils Tower VFW Post #4311.
Terry will leave a legacy of memories, stories, adventures and his love of guns with his co-workers and friends to remember him by.
Grateful for sharing in his life are two aunts, Lois Kennedy and Margaret White, both of Sundance; cousin, Danny White; numerous other cousins and relatives; special extended family members, Brad Marchant and family and numerous co-workers he worked with at WYDOT. Terry was preceded in death by his parents William and Helen Ellard, numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.
Funeral services were Wednesday, May 22, 2013, at the Old High School Gymnasium in Sundance. Burial followed at Mt. Moriah Cemetery with military honors provided by the Last Salute Veterans Honor Guard. A memorial has been established to the Devils Tower VFW Post #4311, PO Box 171, Sundance, WY, 82729.
Arrangements are under the care of Fidler-Roberts & Isburg Funeral Chapel of Sundance. Online condolences may be written at www.fidler-isburgfuneralchapels.com

Funeral Services for Steve Nuckolls, 85 year old Buffalo, Wyoming, man who passed away suddenly Saturday afternoon at his home in Buffalo, will be held Friday, May 31, 2013, at 10 a.m. from the Harness Funeral Home Chapel in Buffalo with Reverend KyeongSu Jung officiating. Visitation will be held from the Funeral Home Chapel on Thursday from 1 until 9 p.m. and on Friday from 8 until 9:30 a.m. Interment will be in Willow Grove Cemetery with the American Legion and VFW in charge of Military Graveside Honors. Donations in Mr. Nuckolls’ memory may be made to the Buffalo Senior Center in care of the Harness Funeral Home at 351 N. Adams in Buffalo.

Stephen Nathaniel Nuckolls was born on September 4, 1927, on the G Bar G family ranch near Hulett, Wyoming, to William and Myra Nuckolls. He grew up on the ranch and graduated from Lingle High School, Lingle, Wyoming, with the class of 1945. After high school he moved to Cody where he broke horses. He joined the Army in 1951 and served at the Aberdeen Proving Grounds in Aberdeen, Maryland. He was married on August 4, 1950, in Hulett to Ethel Huseby and they made their home in Hulett where Steve worked on the family ranch and worked for the Neiman Saw Mill. In 1962 they moved to Buffalo where he was a carpenter and worked for Vic Slaybaugh and Jack O’Leary. They leased the Husky Café in 1965 which they ran for two years and later they purchased the Lariat Café in 1971 and Ethel passed away in October of 1972 and Steve continued to live in Buffalo. He was married August 7, 1974, in Buffalo to Lee Bolinger and they made their home in Buffalo. Steve worked for PP&L for 21 years and retired in 1989 and Lee passed away in 1996. He continued living in Buffalo until the time of his death.

He was a member of the Methodist Church, the American Legion, the Elks, and Buffalo Squares. Steve served on the Trail Board, Tree Board and the Senior Center Board. He planted and cared for all the pine trees along the lower walking path near his house, he was an accomplished wood worker and made over 350 cedar chests, jewelry boxes and coffee tables—many he donated to community fund raisers. He would go with his son to the forests near Hulett and Recluse to cut the cedar trees and have them milled for his woodwork. He enjoyed gardening, snow machining and walking. Steve’s passion was spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren.

He is survived by three sons, Cliff Nuckolls, Kim Bolinger and his wife Shelley of Buffalo, Rusty Bolinger and his wife Gale of Australia; two daughters, Myra Camino and her husband Tom and Terry Gibbs all of Buffalo; one brother Jw Nuckolls of Hulett; one sister Lois Spaur of Denver; fifteen grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, one son Randy, one daughter Bobbie, both of his wives, three sisters and one brother.

Larry R. Nicholas, 69, Sundance, Wyoming, died Saturday, May 25, 2013, at his home.

Survivors include his wife, Wilma Nicholas, Sundance; sons, Larry A. Nicholas and Robert Nicholas; and step-children, Ron Walker, Sundance, Sherman Walker, Newcastle, Robert Williams, Florida, Lisa Truax, Nebraska and Danny Porter, Lead, South Dakota.

At Larry’s request cremation has taken place and no services are planned.

Arrangements are under the care of Fidler-Roberts and Isburg Funeral Chapel of Sundance. Online condolences may be left at www.fidler-isburgfuneralchapels.com

Ruby Frances Hutchinson, 83, passed away May 27, 2013, with family at her side, while at David M. Dorsett Health Care Center, Spearfish, South Dakota, where she resided since 1995.

Ruby was born on April 20, 1930, to Eugene Robinson and Florence (Tucker) Robinson in Daniel, Sublette County, Wyoming. In 1944, the family moved to Belle Fourche, South Dakota, where she attended the Hay Creek School and later the Belle Fourche High School, graduating in 1948. At that time, they moved to the ranch at Aladdin, Wyoming, where Alfred ranched with his dad.

Ruby was very active in the Aladdin Homemakers, 4-H, the Methodist Church, Crook County Homemakers, Buckles and Bows Square Dance Club, Cattle Women and Comforters for Kids.

In 2000, she moved from the ranch to Spearfish, South Dakota and later, in 2005, she moved into the David M. Dorsett Health Care in Spearfish.

Ruby is survived by her sons, Drew (Judy) Hutchinson, Aladdin, Wyoming, Mike (Janet) Hutchinson, Newcastle, Wyoming, Leon (Lori) Hutchinson, Vernal, Utah; five grandchildren, Wade (Kristen) Hutchinson, Draper, Utah, Clay (Jessica) Hutchinson, Aladdin, Nicole (Mitch) Mather, Wilsall, Montana, Cody (Suzi) Hutchinson, Fredrick, Colorado, Josie (Lloyd) Ahlquist, Marina del Rey, California; three great-grandchildren, Kyla Mather and Twins Alexa and Tyler Hutchinson; and a sister, Loretta Artus, Denver, Colorado.

She was preceded in death by her husband, parents, twin grandsons, a brother (Kent) and a sister (Doreen Koopman).

Visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.m., Wednesday, May 29, 2013, at Fidler-Isburg Funeral Chapels, Spearfish. Visitation will also be from 9 to 10 a.m., Thursday, May 30, 2013. Funeral Service will be at 10 a.m., Thursday, May 30, 2013 at Fidler-Isburg Funeral Chapels. Burial will follow at 11:30 a.m. at Black Hills National Cemetery, Sturgis, South Dakota. In lieu of flowers, a memorial may be sent to recipients of the donor’s choice.

Arrangements are under the care of Fidler-Isburg Funeral Chapels & Crematory Services, Spearfish, SD. Online condolences may be written to www.fidler-isburgfuneralchapels.com