Yuma County Pioneers

Vera Carter Sturdivan Kohlman


VERA'S FAMILY

1910 Ellis County, Kansas, Warren S. Carter 41, Millie V. Carter 32, Pearl A. Carter 17, Clara D. Carter 14, Bertha P. Carter 11, Vern Carter 11 (This could be BERNICE), Vera E. Carter 9, Earle T. Carter 7, and Lester R. Carter 5.

VERA'S HALF-SISTER STELLA

Hays, Kansas July 1974
Mrs. Estella Feitz, 85, died Monday at Manhattan Memorial Hospital. Born July 10. 1889, at Hays, she was married to Earnest Sieling. He died in 1951. She was then married to Joe A. Feitz, Oct. 22. 1961, at Ness City. He died in April 1968. She lived here since 1961.
She was a member of the First United Methodist Church; Rebekah Lodge. Survivors are daughter: Mrs. Myrtle King, Kansas City. Mo.; step - daughters: Mrs. Hazel Sunley, Hays; Mrs. Dorothy Moser, Stockton, Mo.; sisters: Mrs. Pearl Batton, Sharon Springs, Mrs. Florence Michaelson. Ellis, Mrs. Clara Cleays, Scotts Bluff, Neb ; half - sister: Mrs. Vera Kohlman, Wray, Colo.; half - brother: Lester Carier, Kansas City, Mo.; two grandchildren; three great - grandchildren. Funeral will be 2 p.m. Thursday at the McCracken Methodist Church. McCracken with Rev. William C. Miller officiating. Burial will be in McCracken Cemetery.

EPHRAIM'S FAMILY

Jennie Burney and J. Sturdivan married in Washington County, Iowa on Nov 23, 1875.

In 1880 Washington County, Iowa, J. Sturdivan and Jane are both 27, David R. 2, and Lena M. eight months.

In 1900 Thomas County, Kansas, James Sturdivan is farming, born July 1850 in Illinois, married 25 years to Samantha J. Sept 1852 Ohio. Lena M. was born in Iowa in August 1879, Abbie in Nebraska in October 1885, Annabel August 1887, Epha July 1891, Link June 1893, Murl April 1896,a nd Nellie Jan 1898, all five born in Kansas.

October 13, 1904 Colby, Kansas "Married: At the home of the parson, in Colby, Kansas, at 11 a. m., Sunday, by the Rev. X. W. Beauchamp, Mr. G. K. Puffey and Miss Abbie Sturdivan. both of Menlo, Thomas county, Kansas and who had for assistants Mr. Maxwell and Miss Puffey, sister of the groom. Immediately after the ceremony the parties returned to the home of the groom's parents, Mr. and Mrs. John J. Puffey where dinner and a reception awaited them. Mr. Puffey is a young man of sterling qualities, a farmer of industry and promise and Miss Abbie, the October bride, is the lovely daughter of Mr. and Mrs. James Sturdivan, an excellent family of Menlo, of amiable character and disposition and with a host of friends all of whom wish the young and happy couple the best that life reach the topmost round. "

In 1905 Thomas County, Kansas, J. F. Sturdivan is 54, Jane 53, A.B. 17, E. 15, L. 12, M. 9,a nd N. 7.

1929 Belleville, Kansas " Mrs. Jennie Sturdivan is visiting her son, Merle Sturdivan, and wife. She has just returned from Menlo, Kan., where she was visiting her daughter, Mrs. Dan Brown and family. "

Symantha J. Sturdivan 1852-1936 is buried in Thomas County # 120411243, with James L. 1842-1924 # 120411209.

David R. Sturdivan 1877-1911 is also buried in the Menlo Cemetery, Thomas County, # 181079072, with Bessie D. (Turner( Sturdivan 1883-1970.

Epha is still with his parents in Thomas County in 1910, 20, with Link 16, Murl 14, and Nellie 12.

(Lincoln Sturdivan, 1893-1935 is buried in Clay County, Kansas # 144646147._

(Abbie, born October 8, 1885, married Ellsworth Duffey, died May 1971, last residence Menlo,k Kansas.

EPHA'S SISTER NELLIE

Nellie is in Belleville, Kansas in 1920, married to Pourie Wells 22, with Lois Mary Wells 1.

In 1930 Powrie and Nellie are in Belleville, farming, with Lois 11 and James R. 6. Jennie Sturdivan 77 is living with them.

Paurie and Nellie, both 42, are in Boulder, Colorado in 1940, with James 16 and Robert 9.

Powrie Peter Wells, 1897-1943 is buried in Glendale, California # 47552614.

Nellie Sturdivan, 57, married Paul L. Fahnestock, 48 on March 31, 1956 in San Diego County.

Nellie Fahenstock, born Jan 18, 1898 in Kansas, died in San Diego County April 4, 1971.

EPHA'S BROTHER MERLE

1929 Belleville, Kansas "Mr. and Mrs. G. E. Duffey, of Menlo, Ks., returned to their home Sunday after a two weeks visit with Mr. and Mrs. Merle Sturdivan family."

1929 Belleville, Kansas " Mrs. Jennie Sturdivan is visiting her son, Merle Sturdivan, and wife. She has just returned from Menlo, Kan., where she was visiting her daughter, Mrs. Dan Brown and family. "

In 1940 Merle is a cook in the soldier's home in Dodge City, Kansas, 33, with Gladys M. 28.

Oct 7, 1951 A Dodge City, Kansas, man was killed and four persons injured tonight In a one-car accident in south Denver. The dead man was Identified as Andrew Appiehams, 56. He was visiting relatives here. Injured were his wife, Estelle Applehams, 71, Dodge City, lacerations; Gladys Sturdivan, Mrs. Applehams' daughter, of Denver, shock and bruises; Thelma Dickson, 48, Topeka, Kans., a fractured left leg, and Merle Sturdivan, 51, husband of Gladys Sturdivan, chest injuries and a possible broken arm, , Police officers Leg Foster and Floyd Knowlton said Merle Sturdivan was driving. His vehicle hit a steel post supporting an underpass at the intersection of West Alameda Ave. and Santa Fe Drive. The death boosted Colorado's 1961 highway death toll to 257.
Merle is buried in Denver 1899-1951 # 89654674, his widow Gladys Morris then married John H. Homyak, and is buried with Merle 1902-19866.


EPHA AND ANNA

Epha Sturdivan, 23, born at Menlo, Kansas to J. L. Sturdivan and Jennie Barney, a carpenter living in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, married Anna Melska, 26, born at Cedar Rapids to Ansel Melska and Anna Pecanik, on November 29, 1911 in Cedar Rapids.

In 1920 Anna is married to Thomas Kral. Anna 1886-1965 and Tomas 1882-1957 are both buried in Linn County, Iowa in the Bohemian Cemetery.

EPHA AND LOUISE

Epha Sturdivan, 26, living in Menlo, Kansas, married Louise Irene Scott, also 26, on Sept 19, 1914 in Codington, South Dakota.
Both were divorced.

When Epha registered for WWI in Menlo, Kansas, born July 19, 1889, farming, he said he was single.

VERA AND EPHRAIM

In 1920 Clay County, Kansas, Epha is farming, 30, with Vera ? 19, both born in Kansas.

In 1925 Ottawa County, Kansas, E. Sturdivan is 35, Vera 24, Jennie 4, Irene 3, and Opal 2.

1930 Clay County, Kansas, Epha Sturdevant is 40, Vera E. Sturdevant 29, Jennie V. Sturdevant 9, Irene Sturdevant 8, Opal Sturdevant 7 and Ruby Sturdevant 3.

1940 Clay County, Kansas, Epha Sturdivan is 50, Vera Sturdivan 39, Irene Sturdivan 18, Opal Sturdivan 17, Ruby Sturdivan 13, Cloe Sturdivan 9, Iris Ann Sturdivan 6, Merle Sturdivan 4, and Rosalee Sturdivan 1.

Ephraim registered for WWII in Denver, construction worker at Camp Carson, Vera living at 1127 21st in Denver.

July 17, 1949 "Glen Kohlman, well known Wray man, and Mrs. Vera Sturdevan were married Friday in Denver, it has been announced. The couple were married by a Christian minister with the lady's daughter, Mrs. Opal Dickerson as a witness. After the ceremony the couple came to Wray and for the present are living with Mr. Kohlman's mother in east Wray. The bride lived at Wray for some time when she was employed by Mr. Kohlman in operating the Blanchard hotel during the time he owned the business."

January 1952 "Mr. and Mrs. Frank Chartier and their daughter have leased the Van Dyke cafe and began operating the restaurant on January first, they are announcing this week. Mrs. Glen Kohlman has been operating the restaurant since the Van Dykes left for Pueblo a few months ago."

May 1959 " Mrs. Larry Peterson and son of San Lorenzo, Calif., who had been visiting the lady's parents, the Glen Kohlmans, for the past three weeks, accompanied the Wray couple to Denver last weekend to visit Mrs. Kohlman's son and Mrs. Peterson's brother, Merle Sturdivan, who left on Monday for New York City where he has employment.
The return trip to Wray was made by way of Ault where they were Sunday dinner guests at the home of a daughter and sister, Mrs. Wilbur Spelts.
Another guest at the Kohlman home the first of this week was Mrs. Lyle Palmer of Kimball, Nebraska."

June 1960 "Mrs. Ruby Heaton of Oakland, Calif., Mrs. Chloe Spelts of Sterling. Mrs. Opal Palmer of Kimball, Neb., and Mrs. Irene Sasser and family of Pierre, S. D., were home to visit their mother, Mrs. Glen Kohlman, while she was in the Cheyenne County hospital at St. Francis where she underwent surgery on June 7. Mrs. Kohlman returned home last Thursday. Another daughter, Mrs. Iris Peterson, of San Lorenzo. Calif., is expected this week and a brother and wife, the Earl Carters of Santa Ana, Calif., were here over the weekend."

July 1961 "A picnic dinner on the lawn of the Glen Kohlman home on Tuesday of last week was a farewell for Mr. and Mrs. William Sasser and family who have moved to Salt Lake City, Utah. Guests were Mr. and Mrs. Russell Heaton and family, Mr. and Mrs Larry Peterson and son of San Lorenzo, California, Chloe Spelts and children, Opal Palmer, Mrs. W A. Gable, Sandy, Judy and Dale Finn."

August 1961 "Mr. and Mrs. Paul Pinorini and daughter Debbie of Seattle, Wash., came last week to visit at the home of Mrs. Pinorini's grandfather. Glen Kohlman, and to attend the wedding of her cousin, Miss Judy Barker, and Alvin Strobel on Sunday."

July 1963 "Mr. and Mrs. Glen Kohlman spent Sunday In Sharon Springs, Kan., at the home of Mrs. Kohlman's sister, Mrs George Battin, where another sister, Mrs. Florence Mickelson of Ellis, Kan., was also a guest."

August 1963 "Mrs. Florence Mickelson of Ellis, Kan., who had spent a week with her sister, Mrs. Glenn Kohlman, left Monday for her home. Mr. and Mrs. Kohlman and Mrs. Mickelson had gone to Denver on Friday to attend the wedding of Mr. Kohlman's grandson, Jan Rogge, on Saturday and then continued to Canon City for a family reunion at the home of a third sister, Mrs. William Wingard, before returning to Wray on Monday. "

IRENE

July 1961 "A picnic dinner on the lawn of the Glen Kohlman home on Tuesday of last week was a farewell for Mr. and Mrs. William Sasser and family who have moved to Salt Lake City, Utah. Guests were Mr. and Mrs. Russell Heaton and family, Mr. and Mrs Larry Peterson and son of San Lorenzo, California, Chloe Spelts and children, Opal Palmer, Mrs. W A. Gable, Sandy, Judy and Dale Finn."

1962 "Miss Diane Sasser, daughter of the William Sassers and a granddaughter of Mrs. Glen Kohlman who attended high school at Wray during her Junior year, graduated May 24 in Salt Lake City. She was awarded a scholarship to Snow College at Ephraim, Utah, as an A student, and was also named the Betty Crocker winner in her high school."

Irene is buried in Salt Lake County # 141635553.
"Our beloved mother, grandmother, and sister, Irene Sturdivan Sasser, passed away on February 2, 2006 in Salt Lake City.
She was born November 11, 1921 in Clay County, Kansas to Epha and Vera Carter Sturdivan.
She married William H. Sasser on April 15, 1951 in Sidsey, Nebraska. He preceded her in death on July 19, 1981.
Irene cooked in the Cathedral of the Madeline in Salt Lake City and was a housekeeper at Holy Cross Hospital for six years.
She volunteered at the Taylorsville Senior Center.
She is survived by her daughters, Diana Whitwell and Nancy Ferguson; sons, Leslie (Sue), Bill, and Daniel Sasser; sister, Rosie (Mike) McClurg; seventeen grandchildren; and twelve great-grandchildren. Preceded by one brother and five sisters. "

OPAL

One of Opal's husbands was Lyle Palmer, who had at least four wives...

"Thersia Madeline Castor Palmer, aged 18 years, 4 months and 11 days died at her husband's residence 4 8 miles southeast of Akron, Sunday afternoon, February 6, 1921, and was buried in the Akron Cemetery Tuesday, February 8. The funeral services were held at the Presbyterian Church and was conducted by Rev. White of Akron. She leaves a husband, Lisle Palmer of near Cope and her mother, who resides in Bridgeport, Nebraska."

Leslie L. Palmer, 21 married Leona Marie Darrow on March 8, 1924 in Yuma County.

"Lyall" L. Palmer is a farm laborer in Goshen County, Wyoming in 1930, 26, with Marie L. 23 and Iva R. 5 born in Missouri.

One tree said Leona Marie died January 18, 1937 in Furnas County, Nebraska.
Iva Ruth, born Dec 24, 1924 in Missouri, died in Omaha December 31, 1938.

In 1940 Wray, Lyle Palmer is 37, married to Virginia 20 born in Nebraska, with Edith M. 9.

April 1940 "Mr. and Mrs. Lyle Palmer and Edith Mae spent Saturday night and Sunday with Mr. and Mre. Roy Cross and family at Joes."
(Virginia Ruth Stearns Caldwell 1919-2000 is buried in Furnas County # 151196901, with Charles Lewis Caldwell 1923-1992 - They married in 1945.
Virginia was in Furnas County in 1930, with divorced father Glen Stearns. Glen is buried in Furnas County 1891-1928 # 183159810.
So is Virginia's mother Mayme S. Stearns 1893-1924 # 183159862.

Leslie Lyle Palmer and Mary Marguerite Collins married on March 25, 1947 in Atwood, Kansas.
Leslie Lyle Palmer 1902-1977 is burie din Arapahoe, Furnas COunty # 167468623.

1953 Wray hospital "Mrs. Opal Reid was dismissed on Sunday."

1954 "Relatives of Mrs. Glen Kohlman who came to Wray for a family picnic at the City Park were Mr. and Mrs. Carl Batton and family, Irl Batton and family, all of Denver, Mrs. Clifford Knouse and family, Don McNeil and family, Mr. and Mrs. George Batton, Delmar Knouse and family, all of Sharon Springs, Kan., Florence Mickelson of Ellis, Kan., Mr. and Mrs. Earl Carter of Cleveland, Ohio, Lyle Palmer of Haigler, Opal Reid, Rosa Lee Sturdivan, Russell Heaton, Chloe Sturdivan and Jimmy and Mr. and Mrs. Glen Kohlman. "

May 1950 "Mr. and Mrs. Lyle Palmer of Arapahoe, Neb., came Friday evening and visited Monday with Mr. Palmer's parents, Mr. and Mrs. Sam Palmer. The latter Mr. Palmer returned home last week from Denver where he had undergone surgery at Colorado General for the removal of a tumor on his hand."

July 1952 "Sam Palmer, aged Wray resident, died early Wednesday morning at his home in north Wray. He had lived here for many years. Funeral arrangements will be in charge of the Lockwood Mortuary but no time had been set for the services"

"Funeral services for Samual M. Palmer, a former employee of Yuma county and a longtime resident of this community who died Wednesday of last week, were held Friday afternoon at 2 o'clock from the residence at 238 North Clay street, conducted by Rev. S. F. Bullard. Burial was in the Cope cemetery.
Mr. Palmer moved to Wray from Otis in 1929 and had lived here since. From 1926 until 1946 he was employed as a truck driver by Yuma county. He retired in that year, but has done odd jobs in this locality as his health would permit since. For the past year he had been in very poor health.
He was born March 3, 1878, at Oskaloosa, Iowa, a son of Rebecca and Joseph Palmer. He was 74 years, 4 months and 13 days old at the time of his death on July 16. Mr. Palmer moved with his family from Iowa to Furnas County, Neb., and here he met and married Cora Belle Landenon on May 4, 1900.
Four sons were born to them. Later the family moved to Otis and made their home there for several years. In the year 1929, he was married to Irene M. Cross and they have made their home in Wray since that time.
Left to mourn Mr. Palmer's death are his wife, Irene Palmer; his four sons, Ralph of St. Francis, Kan., Lyle of Arapahoe, Neb., Lawrence of Aurora, and Lee of Engelwood; two sisters, Mattie Button of Washington and Ada Merritt of Pagosa Springs; two brothers, William of Oregon and Aaron of Wilsonville, Neb.; eleven grandchildren; three great grandchildren; two step-daughters, Della Stallsworth and Twyla Plucheck of Denver and one step-son, Wayne Cross of Joes.
His father, mother, three sisters and three brothers have preceded him in death."

1959 "Mrs. Larry Peterson and son of San Lorenzo, Calif., who had been visiting the lady's parents, the Glen Kohlmans, for the past three weeks, accompanied the Wray couple to Denver last weekend to visit Mrs. Kohlman's son and Mrs. Peterson's brother, Merle Sturdivan, who left on Monday for New York City where he has employment. The return trip to Wray was made by way of Ault where they were Sunday dinner guests at the home of a daughter and sister, Mrs. Wilbur Spelts. "

January 1963 "Holiday guests of Mr. and Mrs Glenn Kohlman were Mr. and Mrs. Roy Stracener and Mr and Mrs. Larry Peterson and son of Denver, Mr. and Mrs. Lyle Palmer and Vicki of Sidney. Neb., Mr. and Mrs. Wilbur Spelts of Wolfpoint, Mont., who were joined for the Christmas dinner by Mr. and Mrs. Worl Rock of Eckley."

In 1969 Opal R. and Lyle J. Palmer, a truck driver, are at 1240 Moline Street, Aurora, Colorado.

Opal R. Sturdivan Palmer is buried in Wray 1923-2003 # 68941292.

RUBY

Ruby Sturdivan Montoya 1926-2000 is buried in Wray # 81596898.
(wife of Chico Montoya)
Montoya, Emilo 9/13/1922 3/25/2006 12 B 7
Montoya, Ruby Jean 10/28/1926 12/22/2000 12 B 8

JENNIE

Jennie was born May 12, 1920 in Clay County to Epha Sturdivan and Vera E. Carter, dying April 25, 2003.

THANKS TO PILLAR RUDY:

"First is Betty and George my aunt and uncle, Betty Rudy aka Betty Clear,



Second is Jennie Victoria Sturdivan aka Jennie Rudy,


last is Orlin Dale Rudy, my dad, Bettys brother, born August 22, 1943 in Ks. Idk where though died Feb 18th 1999 in Aurora Co.
Opal had a son named Jim, he later got adopted by LaVerne and Jennie, which is why his name is Jim Rudy and I refer to him as my uncle.
Orlin aka Dale Rudy, my dad has 4 kids Kim German aka Rudy, Shanna Rudy aka now NavaFlores, Pillar Rudy-Culbreath, I kept my last name and added my married, and Christina Buckley aka Christina Rudy. "

In 1940 Clay County, Kansas, Jennie is 19, married to Laverne Rudy 28, with Betty Jean 1.

Laverne Abraham Rudy registered for WWII in Clay County, born Feb 21, 1917 in Wakefield, Kanss.

In 1981-1994 Jennie is in Aurora, Colorado.

Laverne died in Aurora, Colorado in June 1983.

Betty J. Clear 1938-2009 is buried in Fort Logan # 72572004, with George Edeward Clear 1931-2016.


James M. Rudy 1950 and Kathryn Joan Rudy 1946
"Kathryn Joan Rudy, age 70, went to be with the Lord on December 9, 2016 in Lonetree, CO. She was born on April 25, 1946, in Chicago, Illinois, but lived the majority of her life in Colorado. Kathy graduated from Bishop Heelan High School in Sioux City, Iowa in 1964. She then attended school at Creighton University and the University of South Dakota where she earned her degree in English. She moved back to Colorado where she met her husband, James Rudy. They married on December 26, 1970.
Kathy loved teaching, dedicating over four decades to early education. She spent the majority of that time teaching pre-school. She was fierce bridge player and enjoyed playing with her longtime friends she made over thirty-five years ago while sitting in the bleachers at the little league baseball field. She never missed her children's athletic events, including baseball, football, gymnastics or wrestling. She loved to ski and play golf. Kathy was an avid Bronco fan and would wear her “Sunday Best,” orange and blue every week. Her two grandchildren were the light of her life. Most of all, she was generous, kind, and adored by all who knew her. She will be forever remembered for her contagious smile and positive outlook on life.
Kathy is survived by her husband, James Rudy of Lonetree CO; her children, Brian and Samantha Rudy of Greeley, CO; Christopher Rudy of Greenwood Village, CO; and Jeffrey and Jennifer Bannon of Simi Valley, CA; her two grandchildren, Fletcher Bannon and Reagan Bannon of Simi Valley, CA, and her sister, Dr. Claudia Carroll of Denver, CO. She is preceded in death by two children, Mary Kathryn Rudy and Eric Thomas Rudy."

"Brian and his wife have lived in Grapevine Hollow for over 7 years, and he has been a resident of the Greeley/Evans area since 1993. He is a proud graduate from UNC, and a local small business owner. Brian has been recognized for his work in the community, and received the Citizen of Merit award from the City of Greeley for his contributions and work within the area. He is a dedicated high school coach and has worked with our youth for 17 years.
Brian was elected to the City Council in Evans in April of 2012. He serves on the Finance Team, the Waste Water Treatment Project Team, Strike Team, Freedom Parkway Coalition and the Charter Commission. Brian served as council member for Ward 3 for 6 years prior to being elected Mayor, two of which were in the capacity of Mayor Pro Tem. "

Jeffrey M. Bannon 1978 and Jennifer 1979
Brian James Rudy 1974
Christopher T. Rudy 1977
CHLOE

July 24, 1958 "Mr. and Mrs. Wilbur Spelts of Sterling are the parents of a son, Jackie Bruce, born Tuesday by caesarean section. Mrs. Spelts' mother, Mrs. Glen Kohlman, and sister, Mrs. Opal Palmer, were in Sterling from Monday until Wednesday. "

1959 "Mrs. Larry Peterson and son of San Lorenzo, Calif., who had been visiting the lady's parents, the Glen Kohlmans, for the past three weeks, accompanied the Wray couple to Denver last weekend to visit Mrs. Kohlman's son and Mrs. Peterson's brother, Merle Sturdivan, who left on Monday for New York City where he has employment. The return trip to Wray was made by way of Ault where they were Sunday dinner guests at the home of a daughter and sister, Mrs. Wilbur Spelts. "

January 1963 "Holiday guests of Mr. and Mrs. Glenn Kohlman were Mr. and Mrs. Roy Stracener and Mr and Mrs. Larry Peterson and son of Denver, Mr. and Mrs. Lyle Palmer and Vicki of Sidney. Neb., Mr. and Mrs. Wilbur Spelts of Wolfpoint, Mont., who were joined for the Christmas dinner by Mr. and Mrs. Worl Rock of Eckley."

Wilbur Frank Spelts 1926-2006 dying in Casper, Wyoming, is buried in Pleasant Valley, Yuma County # 133981496.
"Services for Wilbur F. Spelts, 79, will be held today, April 28, 2006, at 11 a.m. at Oregon Trail State Veterans Cemetery with the Rev. WJ Leonard Robinson officiating. He died April 26, 2006, in Casper.
He was born May 5, 1926, in Yuma, Colo., the son of W.C. Spelts and Lena Dilka. He was raised and went to school in Haxtun, Colo. He proudly served his country during World War II, entering the Navy in 1944. He was a sound and radar operator on the USS Strong and the USS Idaho. He was honorably discharged in 1946.
In 1956, he married Chloe Sturdivan in Raton, N.M. He was employed for many years by Circle A and Westburn Drilling Co. He moved to Casper in 1978. He was an avid Colorado Rockies and Denver Broncos fan. He loved woodworking and spending time with family and friends. He was a member of the Elks, Masons and Eagles.
Survivors include a son, Bruce Spelts of Casper; three daughters, Brenda Tomoi of Sterling, Colo., Vickie Sharp of Wray, Colo., and Denise Spelts of Gillette and many grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his former wife, Chloe Miller; his father and mother, brothers, Willis and Glenn Spelts; half-brothers, John Gumm and August Gumm; half-sisters, Lillian Salvador, Lucille Spelts and Evelyn Gumm. Memorials to assist with expenses may be made to Bruce Spelts, 1250 N. Center, Lot 91, Casper, 82601. "

" Memorial services for Jackie Bruce Spelts, 59, will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 13, 2018, at Bustard's Reception Hall, 632 CY Ave. He died Saturday, Jan. 6, 2018, in Casper. Bustard's Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements."

"Funeral service for Elvira Spelts will be held 10:00 a.m., Monday, August 8, 2016 at Gillette Memorial Chapel with Pastor Bill Morel officiating, internment to follow at Mt. Pisgah Cemetery. Visitation will take place one hour prior to services at Gillette Memorial Chapel. Another angel enters heavens gates. Elvira Spelts passed away on August 3, 2016 at Pioneer Manor.
Elvira was born October 24, 1934 to Charles "Jack" Hoover and Luella Bricker Hoover in Gillette, Wyoming. She graduated from Campbell County High School in 1953 and set off on her adventure, living in California, Oklahoma, Kansas and then moving to North Dakota. She met her first husband, Allen Lysne, working at the Mercy Hospital as a secretary in the x-ray department in Devils Lake, North Dakota. They were married in Buffalo, Wyoming and from this union they had one daughter, Denise.
They later divorced and Elvira moved back to Gillette and married Wilbur Spelts. While Elvira was living in North Dakota, s he attended Devils Lake Junior College receiving her Associates Degree in Business. In 1977 she went to work for Stockman's bank as a bookkeeper until 1987 when the bank closed. She loved life, camping in her motorhome, people, a good joke and gambling in Deadwood with her friends and family. She was a strong-willed lady who never gave up or in, which she proved by learning to swim in her late sixties when she was deathly afraid of the water.
She is survived by her daughter Denise Spelts (Marty Brown), grandson Joseph Spelts (Dani), great granddaughters Phoebe and Sophia Spelts.
She was preceded in death by her Mother and Father, Grandparents, Wilber Spelts and numerous Aunts and Uncles. "

Esther Chloe Spelts and Dennis John Miller, both of Texas, married in Elko County, Nevada on April 22, 1970.
Chloe Esther Sturdivan Miller 1931-1974 is buried in Wray # 65274605.

"Dennis John Miller was born on July 21, 1948 in Cheyenne, Wyoming to John B. and Genevieve (Larson) Miller. Dennis graduated from East High School with the class of 1966, and then attended the University of Wyoming. Dennis served in the United States Army following college. He became an employee of the United States Postal Service and ended his career as a professional truck driver. Dennis was an avid golfer, and loved sports of all kinds. On March 7, 2017 Dennis passed away at Tri-County Hospital in Wadena, Minnesota at 68 years of age. He will be dearly missed by his family and friends.
Preceding Dennis in death were his parents, John and Genevieve Miller.
Dennis is survived by his two sisters: Cindy Woods of Pahrump, Nevada and Margaret Olson of Medford, Oregon."
Dennis is buried in Cheyenne, Wyoming # 177150151.

One daughter Julie Brenda Holton married Sam Tomoi.

July 2010 Greeley, Colorado "Angie Marrs of Greeley and Matt Donner of Gillette, Wyo., a daughter, Kya Sheridan Donner. Grandparents are Sam and Julie Tomoi of Greeley, James and Laura Marrs of Kersey and Jennifer and Harvey Donner of Recluse, Wyoming."

Victoria Lynn Sharp, affectionately known as Vicky, was born April 19, 1951 to Esther Chloe Sturdivan and Don Holton in Oakland, California. On the morning of August 29, 2019, Victoria (Vicky) Sharp passed away unexpectedly at the age of 68.
Vicky was the proud mother of four dysfunctional children and lovingly doted on her grandchildren, who could do no wrong. She was funny with a lot of sass making anyone smile, and was full of life despite the challenges that came her way. Vicky knew no strangers and opened her home to many who would stop by “just to talk,” listening to them without judgement. Vicky was widely known for being over-the top, her distinct laugh, and being a cheerleader for everyone, especially the underdogs. She would occasionally partake in a good frozen grenadine daiquiri, but could only handle just one. Vicky was never afraid to wear bold colors and her style always included a touch of flare. Antique stores, garage sales and auctions were always in sight for Vicky...she left behind so much stuff, her kids have no idea what to do with it all. Please, if you have any ideas, let them know.
Growing up, Vicky resided in several states, spending time with numerous aunts and uncles with whom she shared a special bond. She eventually came to Wray in high school where she enjoyed pep club, drama club and socializing with her friends. After graduation Vicky married the most available bachelor, Phil Prentice, and was blessed with two children, Beanie and Marcy. She moved to Haigler, Nebraska in 1978 after falling in love and marrying Bill Sharp to whom she had two more children, Ruby and Jimmy. Later in life, she married Victor Hart and they shared a few good years of traveling and collecting, adding even more treasures for her children to go through.
Vicky was part of the Wray community most of her life, and was so proud to call Wray her home. She enjoyed performing in local theatrical productions and even took on the role of director. Can you imagine anyone more perfect than Vicky playing the part of Ouiser in Steel Magnolias? She loved helping at the senior center, taking money at the football games, cutting a rug even when there wasn’t a dance floor, playing BINGO, bowling, and embarrassing her children and grandchildren at public events. Most recent embarrassment was at the Prairie Chicken Festival, and there is video evidence of this occurrence. Although Vicky held various jobs throughout her life, her favorite was being a school bus driver and taking the kids to their games and activities. Vicky was a devoted Wray Eagles fan, supporting them regardless if her children or grandchildren were participating. The best images of Vicky at games might be of her yelling, jumping up and down or swinging her purse around cheering on the wrestlers.
If anyone knew Vicky, they knew she was fun and a master of embellishment when it came to stories. And she did have some wild stories. Realizing that some things weren’t exactly as told, we were lucky enough to grow up with them. A trip, a gift, just an afternoon with Vicky left people feeling recognized, special and seen. Her genuine concern and huge heart were present in everything she did. This was her gift to us.
As many have said, God truly broke the mold when He made Vicky. She will be heartbrokenly missed by all who knew her, leaving our lives far less colorful. Vicky is survived by her children: Joseph (Beanie) Prentice, Marcy Brown, Ruby Kitchen and Jim Sharp, grandchildren: Autumn, Paige, and Reid Brown, Madison Kitchen, Bru and Stetson Sharp, Ryan Perkins, and Shannon Williams LeQuire, and her siblings, Julie Brenda Tomoi and Jim Rudy. She is preceded in death by her parents Chloe Miller and Don Holton, her brother Bruce Spelts and granddaughter Jordan Prentice.
Receiving of Family & Friends will be held on Tuesday, September 3, 2019 at the Schmidt-Jones Funeral Home in Wray, Colorado from 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
A Funeral Service was held September 4, 2019, at the Calvary Lutheran Church in Wray, Colorado with Pastor Timothy Davis officiating. Interment was held in the Grandview Cemetery in Wray, Colorado following services.
Schmidt - Jones Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.


"Philip Keith Prentice died September 30, 2015 at the Hillcrest Care Center in Wray, CO to be with the Lord and Savior. Phil and his twin sister were born February 2, 1949 to M. Keith and Gladys (Flint) Prentice in Sacramento, CA.
His parents moved to Wray, CO in 1949 soon after the twins were born and he spent his early years on the family farm southeast of Wray. He graduated from Wray High School in 1967. He continued his love of farming as a lifelong career beginning with working for Chet Whomble, Ralph Bowman and Hadley Fix Equipment at Wray. Later he moved to Greeley where he worked 24 years for Ellis and Capp and with B&G Equipment when the company changed ownership. He was a very dedicated service technician who serviced farm implements with balers and windrowers his specialty. Due to health issues, he retired in 2006.
Despite a heart condition from birth, Phil lived his life to the fullest with many antics that left many amazed he survived. His family and friends will miss the lively stories he enjoyed telling about his life and the adventures with his motorcycles. He took many trips to the Sturgis motorcycle rallies and was a lifetime H.O.G. member. Many will remember his black vest weighted down with numerous pins from the events he attended. Phil also liked playing softball, bowling and fishing. He had a fascination with flying, including building and operating remote control airplanes.
He is preceded in death by his parents Keith and Gladys, younger brother David and special friends Larry Beckman and Larry Enke.
He is survived by son Joseph (Beanie) Prentice, granddaughter Jordan of Wray, his daughter Marcy Brown and husband Matt, grandchildren Autumn, Paige and Reid of Wray, son Andrew Prentice of Greeley, sister Marilyn Stephens and husband Don of Loveland, twin sister Phyllis Suihkonen and husband Owen of Paradise, CA.
Memorial services were held at the Schmidt-Jones Funeral Home on October 6, 2015 at 10 a.m. Interment was held following the funeral at the Grandview Cemetery in Wray."

IRIS

Iris Ann Sturdivan, born May 28, 1933, was named Wall in 1950, and Peterson in 1957.


She married Lawrence J. Peterson, 23 on November 24, 1954 in Contra Costa County, California.

Iris, born May 27, 1933, died on June 19, 2004, last residence Denver.

Lawrence James Peterson, born Dec 21, 1930 in Spirit Lake, Idaho to Ben E. Peterson and Ziona Jackson, died June 3, 2005.
(Leone O. (Jackson) Peterson born March 19, 1913, died in Reno Dec 21, 1997, # 100465794.
"Leone O. Jackson Peterson passed away at Saint Mary's Regional Medical Center. She was born to George and Grace Wayt Jackson, and had lived in Reno for the past 1½ years, coming from Denver. Leone was a homemaker. She is survived by her daughters, Phyllis Stepro of Reno and Shirley Jaimeson of Pleasanton, CA; son, Larry of Green Valley, AZ; seven grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren and one great-great grandson."


ROSA

June 9, 1977
"Rosa Lee McClurg, mother of three, passed away Thursday, June 16, 2016.
Rosa Lee McClurg was born November 4, 1938 to Epha Sturdivan and Vera Esther Carter. She passed away June 16, 2016 at the age of 77 after a lengthy illness.
Rosa's parents split up at an early age; she stayed with her father & step-mother, Isabell until she was 11 years old. She then moved to Wray to live with her mother and step-father, Glen Kohlman. She attended the Wray Schools until her junior year.
She was united in marriage to Russell Heaton December 28, 1956. They had three children. Rosa was the babysitter for the Laird neighbors for several years. She was active with the bible school; she was a substitute cook at the Laird School. She taught cooking for 4-H for one year. Rosa loved to cook and kept very busy with her canning of her vegetables in the garden. Russell & Rosa divorced in 1974. Rosa worked for Delbert & Barb Holloway at the El Patio and Sandhiller Restaurant and was a janitor at the Wray Elementary. Rosa moved to Denver in 1978. She had several small jobs between 1978 and 1986.
(Rosa Lee Heaton and Raymond Edwin Hilt married in Yuma County on May 13, 1976, and divorced in Arapahoe County on April 17, 1984.)
She met the love of her life and they united in marriage on June 16, 1986. He owned his own business, Mike's Pizzeria, so she joined him to help with the business until they closed in 1994. Rosa worked at a couple different dry cleaners until she decided to retire in 2004. He decided to retire in 2006. They enjoyed some traveling 2006 -2008, until Rosa became ill October 2008. Rosa enjoyed going to the Wray Eagles Girls Basketball games. Her son helped coach, so she wanted to support the team. They were able to attend two of the State Championship ball games. Rosa was a loving and caring person and sacrificed a lot for her family. After her illness she fought every single day for family until the end.
She is preceded in death by her parents, Epha and step-mom, Isabell, Vera and step-dad, Glen Kolhman, sisters and brothers-in-laws, Jennie and Laverne Rudy, Irene and Bill Sasser, Iris and Larry Peterson, Ruby and Chico Montoya, Opal and Beanie Palmer, Chloe Miller, Judy Sturdivan, one set of twins and her brother, Merle Sturdivan; great-great-grandson, Roderick Russell Heaton, III, nieces and nephew.
She is survived by her husband, son and wife, daughter and husband, and son, and several grandkids and great-grandkids, nieces and nephews.
Funeral services were held on Tuesday, June 21, 2016, 10:00 a.m. at the Schmidt-Jones Funeral Home in Wray, Colorado. Interment will be held in the Grandview Cemetery in Wray, Colorado. Schmidt-Jones Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. "

MERLE

Merle Richard Sturdivan was born December 13, 1935 in Clay Center Kansas to "Epna" Sturdivan and "Bell Mathues" (they put his stepmother down....

Merle died May 12, 2003.
Vera's father EPHA STURDIVAN ssn 515-05-4401 July 19, 1889 September 1, 1963 Stepmother

Name: Isabelle S Nichols Birth Date: 18 Jul 1897 Claim Date: 9 Jun 1959 SSN: 213340148
Robert Nichols and Isabelle Watson married in Jefferson County May 8, 1925 1940 Denver Robert Nichols 60 Isabell Nichols 43 Robert Nichols 18 LODGERS Harold Anderson 21 Avis Hinchman 22

Robert Nichols, 8 Mar 1922 12 Jun 1974, Fort Logan National Cemetery, Memorial ID 3363559

Aurora, Colorado 1955 We are very happy to welcome Mrs. Isabelle Sturdivan into our church. She transferred her membership from the Christian church of Canon City.

It's 'Wonderful' "I recognized her right away," exclaimed two sisters who met in Cherrytree this week after a separation of 56 years. " They are Mrs. Barbara Sutley, 77, of Cherrytree and Mrs. Isabelle Sturdivan, 61, of Denver, Colo. It was Mrs. Sturdivan's three- year search for her birth certificate which led to the reunion. They had parted in 1900 soon after the death of their mother, Mrs. Starkey of Dempseytown. Mrs. Sturdivan was a baby 22 months old then. She was adopted by Mr. and Mrs. Clinton Mattison of Siverly, a suburb of Oil City. The family moved to California in 1910 and lived there for 13 years, then went to Colorado.
Mrs. Sutley was married in 1898 to Clarence Sutley, and lost track of her sister after several years. She and her husband celebrated their 61st anniversity recently. The sisters "had a wonderful time" visiting since Sunday, when Mrs. Sturdivan arrived. She is leaving today to return to Denver.
'I hope it's not another 56 years before we meet again, " she said. Mrs. Sutley said the reason she recognized her sister immediately was because she looks quite a bit like another sister, Mrs. Essie Tobey of Hubbard, O., who died. "Our one regret is that Isabelle could not come before Essie died," Mrs. Sutley said. The sisters learned of each other's whereabouts about three years ago while the Denver woman was tracking down her birth certificate. "That was quite a, task getting that " she said. They corresponded and compared family notes frequently, so they were not strangers when they met again. Mrs. Sturdivar, ''.ould not come east before as shd was caring for her invalid, mother. Her mother died last June at the age of 87. The sisters have one brother Sisters Have Much To Talk About Sisters who had been separated for 56 years held a reunion this week. They are Mrs. Barbara Sutley, 77, left, of Cherrytree (Titusville, RD 3), and Mrs. Isabelle Sturdivan, 61, of Denver, Colo. When their mother died in 1900 Mrs. Sturdivan, then 22 months old, was. placed for adoption and the sisters didn't see each other again until last Sunday. still living, Claude Starkey of Bradford. Their family was originally composed of three boys and three girls. Mrs. Sturdivan made the trip from Denver to Pittsburgh by bus, and a niece drove her to Titusville. from Pittsburgh. When they got here they were fortunate enough to talk "to a young policeman" who knew where the Sutleys lived - the second house on the right past the Cherrytree store on the way to Oil City. "My sister was curious to see me," Mrs. Sturdivan said, "but not any more than I was to see her."

October 1963 Mrs. Isabelle Sturdivan of Aurora spent the week at the home of her step-daughter, Mrs. Russell Heaton, and family.

ISABELLE STURDIVAN 524-03-7455 March 8, 1897 July 1, 1973

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