Ronald “Ron” Eugene Bartley, 76, of Rayville, Missouri, passed away peacefully at his home with his family by his side on January 1, 2026. Ron was born to Forrest and Frances Bartley on July 7, 1949 in Lexington, Missouri.

Ron was a United States Marine and veteran of the Vietnam War. He was proud to have served his country, but he knew he had paid a cost for it which included exposure to Agent Orange, a disease that was not shown to all, but he made the most of it. Ron was a hunter, family man, great provider, and listener but some might say he lacked patience. Ron had a great love for the outdoors doing things such as his work as a telephone man, deer hunting, coon hunting, fishing and a great love for animals like dogs, deer, and horses. The greatest love he had though was for his family.

Ron is survived by his wife of 34 years, Renee Bartley, of the home; sons, Christopher Battagler, Nathan Bartley (Alli), Jamie Newsome (Bobby), Landon Bartley (Haley), and Joshua Bartley; nine grandchildren, Rebecca, Dylan (Hannah), Ariel (Zach), Savannah, Audry, Alexis, Cash, Tucker and Cameron; and two great grandchildren, Ava and Brady; along with bonus daughters, Becky, Amber and Marsha; a twin brother, Donald Bartley; one sister, Carol Tulipanna of Lexington, MO, and one half-sister, Maryvette Fennell of Palmetto, FL; a brother-in-law, Russ Battagler (Wendy); and a sister-in-law, Rene Battagler.

Ron was preceded in death by his parents; one son, Ronnie; three brothers-in-law and one sister-in-law.

Services for Ron will be held Friday, January 9, 2026 at the Gowing Funeral Home in Orrick, Missouri. A visitation for family to receive friends will be from 5PM to 6PM with funeral services and military honors immediately following at 6PM.

Bobby “Bob” Ray Shrout, 77, of Elkhorn, MO passed away peacefully on November 25, 2025 with his family by his side.

Bob was born Februrary 23, 1948 in Kansas City, KS, to George and LeVerne Shrout. He was the youngest of the family having two sisters, Judith “Judy” and Rosalie “Rosie” at the time of his birth. Bob spent his youth in North Kansas City exploring the surrounding woods and creeks while hunting and fishing with his beloved dog, “Step and Fetch.” Some would say he never met a dog he didn’t like.

Bob attended North Kansas City High School where he met the love of his life, Katie. They soon dated and married on Bob’s birthday, February 23, 1966 and went on to be happily married for 55 years until Katie’s passing. While married they raised five children, Brian, Dough, Scott, Dana, and Kalen while living in a few various Kansas City, MO areas and finally settling in Elkhorn, MO. Bob worked at the Kansas City Southern Railroad for 32 years until his retirement. He was hooked on trains from a young age as his parents would take him to watch trains for hours. He always said that was the one job he wanted to do, was one to work with trains.

Bob also loved the outdoors, taking hunting trips to Mound City with family and friends. He even shot an Egyptian Goose, “by accident,” When Bob wasn’t working or hunting, he also enjoyed traveling, riding his Harley with Kay and being with his family.

Bob was preceded in death by both his parents; his sister, Rosie; and his wife, Kay.

He is survived by his sister, Judy, all his children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, and nieces and nephews.

Bob’s mischievous personality, funny and adventurous stories, laughter, and jokes will be greatly missed, especially his infamous two hard boiled eggs story.

Services for Bob will take place on Monday, December 1, 2025 at Gowing Funeral Home in Orrick, MO, with a visitation for family to receive friends from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m. and funeral services beginning at 1:00 p.m. with Pastor Art Endsley officiating. Graveside services will occur directly after the funeral with interment at Southpoint Cemetery, just east of Orrick. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in memory of Bob.

Melcina Rose (Wyse) Smith, born on February 18, 1955, in Keokuk, IA, went to be with our Lord and Savior on Friday, November 14, 2025.

Known by most as Honey or Mel, she was a member of the First Baptist Church of Richmond, MO. Melcina was a lifelong resident of Richmond, MO, where she graduated from Richmond High School. Melcina retired from Henkel in 2021, and enjoyed spending the additional time with her friends and family.

Melcina was preceded in death by her parents, Harry Wyse Sr. and Melcina (Floyd) Wyse, and two siblings, Eddie Floyd and Joan Wyse. She was also preceded in death by her lifelong friend, Murrietta Nichols, who she is surely rejoicing with in Heaven.

Melcina is survived by her three children, Joseph (Beth) Smith of Richmond, Bridget (Eric) Hussing of Richmond, and Jenny (Nathan) Meierer of Lexington; nine grandchildren, McKenzie (Logan) Smith, Jessy (Dylan) Maxwell, Brendan (Chelsea) Smith, Gabriel Ramos, Jaxton Smith, Alana Ramos, Ashton Meierer, Channing Meierer, and Caraline Smith; four great-grandchildren, Harrison and Winston Hays and Grayson and Eleanore Maxwell. She is also survived by five siblings, Harry (Linda) Wyse Jr., Jerry Wyse, Geneva Crumply, Kenny (Susie) Wyse, and Gene (Jeanie) Wyse, and many nieces and nephews.

Melcina had a heart of gold. She loved effortlessly and touched every life in her presence with warmth. She will be missed, but her memory will live through those that knew and loved her.

Services for Melcina will be held Thursday, November 20, 2025 at Gowing Funeral Home in Orrick, MO, with a visitation from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., and with funeral services beginning at 1:00 p.m. Graveside services will follow at South Point Cemetery, just east of Orrick.

Penny Lou Johnston, 79, of Richmond, MO, passed peacefully into the loving arms of Jesus, at her home and surrounded by the love her family and close friends on November 11, 2025. Penny was born in Kansas City, MO, on June 27, 1946 to Hattie Arzelda nee Hayes and Cecil H. Doubenmier, Jr.

Penny spent her entire life caring for others. Whether it was family, friends or just someone in need. She was an excellent cook and enjoyed sharing that with everyone. She was famously known for her potato salad. She also loved sewing, her beloved pets, cardinals, hummingbirds and Elvis Presley. She believed there was good in everyone, forgiveness of others, and helping anyone without being asked. Shared family holidays and gatherings were some of her favorite moments with home cooked food and lots of laughter. She worked for the state of Missouri for over 20 years caring for the mentally and physically challenged. Prior to that she worked as a beautician and a mid-wife.

Penny was preceded in death by her parents, Cecil and Zelda Doubenmier; one brother, Jacob Doubenmier; an infant son, Cecil T. Webb; her first husband, William T. Webb (8-30-07); and her first love and second husband, Ira Sandford Johnston (11-10-18).

Penny is survived by her children and their spouses, Cindy (Tim) Thurnau of Orrick, MO, Bill (Dee) Webb of Richmond, MO, and Amber (Jeremy) Villareal of Richmond, MO; and a granddaughter she raised, Maggie (Thomas) King of St. Joseph, MO. She is also survived by her 12 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren. She especially enjoyed seeing her youngest great grandbabies grow and play, Thomas Jr. King and Lila Thurnau. She will greatly missed by all.

Funeral services for Penny will be held in Orrick, MO, at Gowing Funeral Home on Saturday, November 15, 2025 with the Visitation from 10:00 to 11:30 A.M. and the Funeral beginning directly after at 11:30 A.M. A processional will leave from Orrick after the funeral services for a 2:00 P.M. Graveside Service at Pisgah Cemetery in Chilhowee, MO.

Roger Wholf, 84, of Orrick, was born on April 3, 1941, and passed away on November 7, 2025.

Roger dedicated 42 years of his life to Ford Motor Company, where he was known for his strong work ethic, loyalty, and steady presence. He started the first paint lab at the Kansas City Assembly Plant. He was a devoted member of Orrick Christian Church and faithfully served his church and community throughout his life.

After retiring in 2002, Roger embraced the things he loved most. He and Jeannie spent many happy years traveling to trail rides with their close group of riding buddies. Horses and the open trail brought Roger joy, peace, and some of his very best memories. He also enjoyed pitching horseshoes and was known for his creative gifts – welding metal art pieces and crafting beautiful stained glass for friends and family.

Roger was married to the love of his life, Jeannie Wholf, and together they built a home rooted in faith, commitment, and deep family bonds for 63 years.

He is survived by his daughters, Shelly Hoskins (Mike), Jill Jones (Jeff), and Janell Wilson (Todd). Roger was blessed with many grandchildren who brought him immense pride, Danielle Russell (Tony), Katelyn McGlothlin (Cam), Cody Hoskins, Justin Jones (Collin), Jayla Weidmaier (David Il), Blaine Wilson (Kristin), Ethan Wilson (Abby), and Emma Wilson. He also leaves behind his great-grandchildren, Jayme, Maryanne, McKenna, Wyatt, Jace, Jax, Colbie, Khloe, David Ill and Blair, each a bright reminder of the legacy he leaves.

Roger will be remembered for his sense of humor, his love for the outdoors, his creativity, and the way he quietly and faithfully cared for the people in his life.

A Celebration of Life for Roger will be held at 1 P.M. on Saturday, November 15, 2025 at the Orrick Christian Church with pastor Art Endsley officiating. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to the Orrick Christian Church Building Fund.

Mark Look, 67, of Independence, Missouri, passed peacefully at his home October 7, 2025.

Mark was born March 18, 1958 to Ralph and Mary Look in Jonesport, Maine. He spent his childhood in Columbia Falls, Maine. He graduated from Narraguagus High School in 1976.

Many adventures took Mark all over the United States. He worked at a ski resort in Maine and a sea camp on Catalina Island, California. He also had his own custom furniture shop on Route 1 in Columbia Falls, Maine for many years. Mark’s later years allowed him to continue to use his carpentry skills in many capacities.

Mark had an enduring love and special place in his heart for animals of all kinds. His tender heart toward cats, especially, allowed many strays and rescues to find their way into his care.

Preceding Mark in death are his parents, Ralph and Mary Look.

Mark is survived by his wife, Lorrie, of almost 18 years; his step-daughter, Lucy Fine (Andrew) of Liberty, Missouri; his brother, Darrell Look (Teresa) of Lone Jack, Missouri; his sister, Cindy Look (Robert) of Gardiner, Maine; and many nieces and nephews.

Services for Mark will be held at the Gowing Funeral Home in Orrick, MO, on Saturday, October 18, 2025, with a visitation for the family to receive friends from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. and funeral services beginning at 5:00 p.m. with Pastor Bob Sanders officiating. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Independence Animal Services through the Truman Heartland Community Foundation.

January 21, 1953 – October 2, 2025

Melvin E. Williams, age 71, of Kansas City, MO, passed away peacefully on October 2, 2025. He was born on January 21, 1953, in Kansas City, the beloved son of Huey and Vera Williams.

Melvin had a lifelong passion for cars and computers — interests that reflected his curious mind and love for problem-solving. Though a quiet and private man, those who truly knew Melvin discovered a unique and caring soul. When he let his guard down, his humor, wit, and quiet charm shone through — traits cherished by all who were lucky enough to experience them.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Huey and Vera Williams; his brother, Ronnie; and his sister, Pam.

Melvin is survived by his daughter, Shelby O’Dell, and her husband, Michael Johnson; his brothers, Glen and Bruce Welch; and a host of extended family and friends who will deeply miss his presence.

A private service for family and close friends will be held on October 9, 2025, from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at Gowing Funeral Home in Orrick, MO. All who knew and loved Melvin are welcome to come by and share a memory in his honor.

Condolences

My deepest condolences to you and your family. I pray for God’s comfort and strength during these times of mourning.
Randy Green SumnerOne

We were very sorry to hear about your father’s passing. Please know that you and your family are in my thoughts during this difficult time. Wishing you peace and comfort in the days ahead.
Jeff Harper

James Eugene Belt, 66, of Kearney, Mo., passed away on September 2, 2025.

James, or Jim as most knew him, was born on March 5, 1959 to James Monroe and Virginia Lou (Newsome) Belt in Richmond, Mo., but spent most of his childhood growing up in Orrick, Mo. This is where James would go on to excel in athletics, being a talented dual-sport athlete in basketball and football, where he would be a part of the State Championship 1975 Orrick Bearcats Football Team. While not playing sports, Jim would work around Orrick, doing farm work and showed no fear in climbing the large grain bins. Jim was a great friend to everyone he met and was known to many for being an avid Oakland Raiders fan, his talents as a shark-catcher, but most importantly for his love of being with his grandchildren.

Jim was preceded in death by his father, James M. Belt, and a sister, Cindy (Scotty) Cazzell.

Jim is survived by his mother, Virginia Belt; two sisters, Pam Boyda and Kim (Rick) Turner; his children, Jamie Marrant, Makayla Belt, and Logan Belt; his grandchildren, Natalie, Haylee, Kaitlyn and Zander Marrant, and Marleigh Jewell; as well as several nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews.

The family would like to welcome those who knew and loved Jim to a visitation in honor of his life that will be held from 12 Noon to 3:00 P.M. on Saturday, September 13, 2025 at Gowing Funeral Home in Orrick. Jim will be laid to rest at South Point Cemetery, just east of Orrick, and the graveside ceremony will occur directly following the visitation.

Jackie Lee Riddle, 71, of Orrick, MO, passed away peacefully on September 4, 2025 at North Kansas City Hospital surrounded by her loved ones. Jackie was born in Excelsior Springs, MO, to Donald Keith “Jack” and Shirley Ross on July 6, 1954. She was a lifelong resident of Orrick, MO, where she graduated from Orrick High School in 1972. Jackie received a bachelor’s degree in education from Central Missouri State University. Jackie retired in 2022 from Hallmark after 50 years of service, while also working at Arrowhead for over 30 years and the T-Mobile Center for 18 years as a suite attendant.

Jackie was married to Edward Riddle on June 11, 1983. Jackie’s greatest joy in life was the time spent with the people she loved most. She cherished every moment with her family, friends, and especially her grandkids. She always loved to travel, making memories with her family and having fun adventures with her girlfriends. A dedicated and hardworking woman, Jackie took pride in the multiple roles she held throughout her life that gave her an opportunity to meet and connect with so many people with who she’s still friends with today.

Jackie is survived by her husband, Edward Riddle of Orrick; son, Casey (Heather) Gaines of Liberty; daughter, Katy (Jeremy) Greer of Orrick; and daughter, Kelly (Garrett) King of Orrick; eight grandchildren, Conner, Ross, Tucker, Jack, Gunner, Maddy, Anders, and Joelle. She is also survived by her mother, Shirley Ross of Orrick; brother, Keith (Joyce) Ross of Gladstone; mother-in-law, Helga Riddle of Richmond; sister-in-law, Susan Carter of Orrick; brother-in-law, John (Claudine) Riddle of Orrick; brother-in-law, Gerald Jones of California; and several nieces and nephews.

Jackie is preceded in death by her father, Jack Ross; father-in-law, William “Ed” Riddle; sister-in-law, Helene Jones; and brother-in-law, David Skahan.

A funeral service honoring Jackie’s life will be held for family and close friends on Tuesday, September 16, 2025 at 11 a.m. at Gowing Funeral Home in Orrick, MO. Burial will follow immediately at South Point Cemetery near Orrick. A Celebration of Life will take place on Sunday, September 21, 2025 from 2 to 5 p.m. at Branded Banquet Hall, 708 Wollard Blvd., Richmond, MO, where all who knew and loved Jackie and her family are invited to gather, share memories, and honor the joy and love she brought to so many. In lieu of flowers, contributions in memory of Jackie can be made to South Point Cemetery or Outpacing Melanoma Foundation.

Kevin Michael Casey, 66, of Orrick, Missouri, passed away peacefully on July 8, 2025, at his home with his wife by his side.

Kevin was born on December 2, 1958, to Robert Eugene and Kierna Mae (Minor) Casey in Independence, Missouri. On June 11, 2015, Kevin was united in marriage to his wife, Lisa.

Kevin was a hard worker and with his wife, Lisa, they built a dental lab together that became very successful, running it side-by-side for nearly 15 years. This was something he was very proud of. Kevin was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend to many. He had a true love for people and never met a stranger. He was known for his charismatic personality and his deep faith. He loved Jesus, going fishing and spending time out on his land.

Kevin was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Kierna Casey.

Kevin is survived by his wife, Lisa, of the home; one son, Garrett Casey (Jocelynne) of Kearney, MO; three daughters, Kayla Cummings (Nathan) of Blue Springs, MO, Lauren Walkup (Matt) of Berryton, KS, and Jennifer Thompson (Nate) of Springfield, MO; two sisters, Teri Casey of Independence, MO, and Kellie Keaton (Derrick) of Independence, MO; as well as five grandchildren, Adam Casey, Jack Casey, Josie Walkup, Jonah Walkup, Eva Thompson, and one more grandchild on the way.

Services will be held at Gowing Funeral Home in Orrick on Tuesday, July 15, 2025, with a visitation for the family to receive friends from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and funeral services beginning at 1:00 p.m. with Pastor Art Endsley officiating.