Johnson & Mass-Hinitt Cremations, Funerals & Receptions

09/29/2025

Charlene Kay Lueck

Charlene Kay Lueck, a beloved educator and cherished friend, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, September 26, 2025 at Stormont Vail Flint Hills Campus Hospital in Junction City, Kansas.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 6:30 PM, followed by a Rosary from 6:30 PM to 7:00 PM at Johnson & Mass-Hinitt Funeral Home, located at 203 N Washington St, Junction City, Kansas. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, at 10:00 AM at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church, 218 North Washington Street, Junction City, Kansas. Father Peter O'Donnell with be the celebrant. She will be honored at a graveside service on Friday October 3, 2025, at 10:30 AM at Immaculate Conception Catholic Cemetery in Elm Creek, Nebraska.

Charlene was born on January 18, 1947, in Kearney, Nebraska the daughter of Charles Ward and Phyllis Jean (Sternberg) Moats.

Charlene married her best friend and high school sweetheart on November 26, 1966. Together they embarked on a journey filled with love and friendship. The love that they shared created a wonderful family legacy and left an impression on everyone they met.

For 36 years, Charlene graced Franklin Elementary School with her passion for education as a long-time teacher. Her students admired her not only for her knowledge and ability to inspire, but also for her kindness and deep concern for their feelings. Charlene often went above and beyond to ensure that each child felt valued and understood, leaving a lasting impact on countless young hearts.

Charlene received her Master of Arts in Special Education from Kansas State University and was an active member of her community. She was a dedicated and committed K-State fan with unwavering support and you never saw her without some purple on. She was a devout Catholic and member of the Saint Xavier Catholic Church where she served as a Eucharistic Minister and was deeply involved with The Circle IV, demonstrating her commitment to compassion and service. She was a proud member of the Delta Kappa Gamma Social Sorority and the Junction City Association of Retired School Personnel. She was an enthusiastic Bunko player and always looked forward to attending a monthly Bunko group. She was also a member of the Mystery Book Club through the Junction City Library that was a highlight of her months.

In her personal life, Charlene was known for her warm heart and love for animals, particularly her beloved dog, Bailey. She never met a stranger and everyone she met became her friend. She had a deep fondness for gardening, creating beautiful flowers that delighted not only her own yard but brought joy to those around her. The magical moments she shared with her family, whether during Disney Adventure Cruises or adventures at Disneyworld created lasting memories. Charlene captivated everyone with her elaborate decorations and love for every holiday while enjoying the hustle and bustle of being surrounded by her family. Her adventurous spirit led her and Fred and their family on multiple trips around the world including, Pompeii, East Berlin, Europe, South Korea, and Rome.

She is survived by her loving husband, Fred L. Lueck, who remains in their home in Junction City, Kansas. Her legacy continues through her son, Tim Lueck of Omaha, Nebraska, and her daughter, Carm Fay, along with her husband Jim of Longmont, Colorado. Charlene took great pride in her six grandchildren: Emma Lueck, Trevor Lueck, Maci Lueck, Patrick Fay, Delaney Lueck, and Izzy Fay, who brought her immense joy and fulfillment.

Charlene is also lovingly remembered by her brothers: Bruce Moats and his wife Charlene of Kearney, Nebraska; Dave Moats of North Platte, Nebraska; and Jim Moats and his wife Anne of Elm Creek, Nebraska. She was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Dan Moats.

As we reflect on Charlene's life, we remember her spirit of generosity, her lifelong dedication to education, and her ability to bring people together. Her unwavering love for her family and friends will continue to resonate in our lives.

Charlene Kay Lueck leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and lifelong learning that will forever warm the hearts she touched.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations are suggested to be given to St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church, 218 N. Washington Street or Junction City Animal Shelter, 2424 N. Jackson Street and Geary County Food Pantry, 700A W. 7th Street all of Junction City, Kansas 66441.

View Charlene Kay Lueck's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

09/25/2025

Deborah Jean Elser

Deborah “Debbie” Elser was born to Betty Mulliken in Wichita on August 3rd, 1954. Her first 17 years were spent in an often poor, abusive and dysfunctional reality. In this struggle she had a protective big sister in Marsha and a little brother named Ricky (now deceased) who took much of the abuse. She took refuge in her beloved grandparents, Gammie and Bub, and it was from these depression era adults that she learned the lessons and values that would form the amazing woman that she grew up to be.

At the age of 16, Debbie found a young college student (in the parking lot of a closed Pizza Hut) who said he was going to be a lawyer and she took a leap of faith. Albert “Skip” Elser and Debbie were married on December 4th, 1971, in a Wichita Methodist Church by a minister they had never met before who counseled that this was folly (their plans had been for an outdoor “hippie” wedding in the park with Skip’s childhood minister until Debbie’s mother inserted herself). From this simple beginning grew a love story that would last 55 years.

In the early years of their married life, Debbie helped to support Skip in every way as he returned to school to become a history teacher (not a lawyer). In 1976 they moved to Wakefield, Kansas, and spent the best 33 years of their lives in this little town on the north end of Milford Lake. While he taught at Wakefield School, Debbie worked at T&J Sheet Metal (bless you Sal Eakes) and then Geary Community Hospital in Junction City. It was also during this time that they grew their family and raised their three children (Andrew, Abby, and Austin) in what Debbie called “the best possible place to raise children”. When Skip reached retirement age, the empty nesters moved for a while to Junction City where Debbie had her red dream house in a lovely planned community called Olivia Farms before moving on to Lawrence to live out their final years.

It was at this time in 2017 that Debbie was diagnosed to have Alzheimer's, and the decade long struggle began. Alzheimer’s has been called the long goodbye and there is a long and slow road down the other side of the mountain, but there were still very good times to enjoy! Trips to see grandchildren (Linus,Jackson, Attia, Edison, Axel, and Gus), Dole lectures, concerts in KC, long walks with Gracie the Golden Retriever, snow to shovel, cats to love (Robert was the best), holidays to decorate and celebrate, trips to take (Gettysburg and Washington D.C.), and always bicycles to ride. In February 2024 Debbie went to live at Bridge Haven Memory Care in Lawrence and Skip was able to be with her there every day. In July of 2025 she entered Hospice Care from Ascend Hospice and passed away peacefully on the evening of September 9th with Skip and Austin at her side.

Debbie’s ashes will be buried in Highland Cemetery, Wakefield, at a future date when Skip is once again able to join her in whatever comes after this life on earth. A life well lived.

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09/19/2025

Judy Erika Fielder

Judy Erika Fielder, 62, of Chapman, Kansas, passed away unexpectedly on September 16, 2025.

Born on November 30, 1962, in Huntington, New York, Judy was the daughter of German immigrants Helmut and Waltraud “Wally” Cordier (Holle). Following her father’s passing in 1964, Wally moved Judy and her sisters, Isabel and Elizabeth (Liz), to Dwight, Kansas, to be near family. Wally later married Emory Strauss, and together they welcomed a son, Michael. Growing up on the family’s farm in rural Junction City, Judy developed a lifelong love of animals, especially dogs, and devoted herself to caring for them through 4-H and farm work.

Judy graduated from Junction City High School in 1981, where she formed many friendships that she treasured throughout her life. She remained actively involved in organizing and attending class reunions, always cherishing the bonds she built during those years.

On August 1, 1981, Judy married her soulmate, Gradon “Grady” Fielder. They met while she worked at Food 4 Less and he delivered for PepsiCo. Their early years together were filled with trips to the lake, racing events, and gatherings with friends and family. They later welcomed two sons, Brent Lee in 1985 and Kasey Ryan in 1988. The Fielder family made their home in Chapman, spending countless weekends boating at Milford Lake, attending the boys’ sporting events, and cheering on races at local dirt tracks. Family vacations to NASCAR races and Table Rock Lake were among Judy’s favorite traditions.

The heart of their home was always “The Shop.” More than a place to work on race cars and go-carts, it became the hub for gatherings filled with laughter, good food, and Judy’s signature hospitality. She was known for making everyone feel welcome, always ready with cold drinks and homemade treats. From birthdays and graduations to holidays and her beloved annual Labor Day parties—celebrated for over 30 years—Judy’s shop events became cherished community traditions.

A gifted gardener, Judy found joy in her flowers, vegetables, and landscaping projects. Every spring, pallets of mulch and potting soil would happily consume her free time. Watering plants in the heat of the summer was her favorite pastime. Her gardens provided the ingredients for her famous salsa and zucchini bread, and she poured love into every detail of her yard.

Judy retired in April 2025 after a remarkable 37-year career with the Department of Defense at Fort Riley. She deeply valued the friendships she built with her colleagues and took pride in her work. Alongside her career, Judy dedicated over two decades to fitness instruction, beginning in 1996 as an aerobics teacher at Geary Rehab and Fitness and continuing at gyms from Fort Riley to Chapman. Her seemingly endless amount of energy and her passion for health and wellness inspired many. In recent years, she was a familiar sight speed-walking through Chapman—always with a smile, always ready to pause for a neighborly chat or deliver some fresh baked goods and salsa.

Family was Judy’s greatest joy. She adored her daughters-in-law, Lisa and Lacey, and took immense pride in her four grandchildren: Grason, Lillian, Landyn, and Wyatt. Sleepovers, shopping trips, cheering them on from the sidelines of their sporting events and enjoying pool days were the highlights of her life recently. She poured her love into every moment with them. Judy always made sure their favorite snacks were close at hand, and she could never keep a secret from them, her excitement to see her family loved and spoiled was simply too great to contain.

Judy is survived by her husband of 44 years, Grady; sons Brent (Lisa) of Liberty, Missouri, and Kasey (Lacey) of Chapman; grandchildren Grason, Lillian, Landyn, and Wyatt; siblings Isabel Schmedemann of Herington, Liz Schoenberner of Georgetown, Texas, and Mike Strauss of Junction City; and many nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, Waltraud and Helmut, and her in-laws, Bill and Shirley Fielder.

Judy’s legacy of love, kindness, hard work, and community spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, September 26, at 11:00 a.m. at Zion United Church of Christ, with visitation beginning at 9:00 a.m. Following the service, family and friends are invited to gather at “The Shop” in Chapman to honor Judy’s memory in the place she loved most. Food will be served starting at 1:30 and guests are welcome through the evening.

This fall, Judy had looked forward to beginning volunteer work at the Geary County Food Pantry. The family suggests memorial donations be directed to the food pantries serving Chapman and Junction City.

Contributions to the Chapman food pantry may be made payable to Clover Cabinet, while donations for Junction City may be made to the Geary County Food Pantry.

View Judy Erika Fielder's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

09/11/2025

Today marks 24 years since the tragic events of September 11, 2001. Though time has passed, the weight of that day and the emotions it carries remain just as strong. We hold close in our hearts the memory of those we lost and extend our love to all who continue to feel the pain of that loss. We will never forget.

09/10/2025

Dawn Michelle Trotter-Meadows

Dawn Michelle Trotter-Meadows, born on February 26, 1969, in Chicago, Illinois, entered eternal rest on September 6, 2025, in Junction City, Kansas. She was a remarkable woman, cherished by all who had the pleasure of knowing her. Dawn was a shining star possessing a beautiful sense of humor and a loving heart that made others feel happy and cared for. Her door was always open to anyone who sought comfort and support, a true testament to her generous spirit. Dawn accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior as a young child, and her faith was a guiding light throughout her life.

Dawn's life was one of dedication and service. Her commitment to her country was marked by her 14 years of service in the U.S. Army, where she was stationed at notable locations such as Fort Bragg, North Carolina, Fort Lee, Virginia, Kaiserslautern, Germany, Kuwait, Hawaii, and Fort Riley, Kansas. Dawn also held a special assignment as a culinary specialist at the Pentagon, showcasing her diverse talents. After her medical retirement, she went on to achieve her associate's degree and worked as a civil servant for over 20 years, eventually transitioning to the position of Management and Program Assistant on Fort Riley, Kansas, for the Installation Maintenance Division/Army Field Support Battalion-Riley.

Throughout her life, Dawn brought joy to her family by celebrating special holidays and creating unforgettable memories. She took great pride in her role as a loving wife, devoted mother, and doting "Noni" to her grandchildren. She had the immense joy of marrying the love of her life, Leo Meadows, on March 7, 2001, which beautifully blended their families. Dawn is lovingly remembered by her husband, Leo Meadows; daughters Margarita Caraway (married to James Caraway) and A'jia Hamlin; sons Jamaal Trotter and Alex Meadows; and her cherished grandchildren Malaya, Maya, Nataliyah, Aslan, Nile, and Affinity. She is also survived by her siblings, Vivian Proff of North Carolina and Ronald Trotter of Texas, and her "sister-cousins" Shelia Gothard, of North Carolina, Sheray Manuel and Sheletha Manuel, both of Michigan; along with a host of family and friends who will miss her dearly.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Vera Mae Trotter and Al Ford, as well as her beloved aunt and uncle, Sadie Manuel and Henry Manuel, who lovingly raised her in Paw Paw, Michigan.

The legacy of Dawn Michelle Trotter-Meadows will be celebrated and honored at Johnson & Mass-Hinitt Cremations, Funerals & Receptions in Junction City, Kansas. Visitation will take place on September 15, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM, followed by a funeral service on September 16, 2025, at 11:00 AM. A graveside service will follow at the Kansas Veterans' Cemetery in Manhattan, Kansas, at 1:00 PM.

Dawn's life was a bridge between those she loved and those who needed love. Her memory will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to have known her.

To live stream the funeral service, please click on the link: Funeral Service for Dawn Trotter-Meadows

View Dawn Michelle Trotter-Meadows's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

09/02/2025

Gisela Sigrid (Lemke) Tidd

Gisela Sigrid (Lemke) Tidd was born to Kurt and Hedwig Lemke in 1942 in the Sudetenland in what is now the Czech Republic, then grew up in Stuttgart, Germany.

Gisela married Charles Tidd, who was stationed in Stuttgart with the US Army. They had been legally separated for many years. After moving back and forth between Germany and the US, she ultimately settled down in Kansas in 1978.

Gisela had three children Michael (Tamara) Tidd Hutchinson, KS, Martin (Janice) Tidd Herington, KS and Steven (Danielle) Oklahoma City, OK. Gisela also had five grandchildren and was especially proud of her grandson Steven (Erica) Jennett of Gallatin, TN.

Gisela was baptized as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses in 1971 and remained faithful unto the end. Gisela was convinced that she would be resurrected into eternal life so did not fear death.

Gisela was employed at the North Central Foundry until it closed, then worked doing custodial work at many businesses and county offices. Ultimately Gisela worked in the Register of Deeds office under three different Registers of Deeds. She retired from that position after 29 years of service.

Gisela was preceded in death by her parents Kurt and Hedwig Lemke, older brother Folker Lemke, younger brother Juergen Lemke, and older sister Helfride (Lemke) Manning, and granddaughter Jennifer Milhon-Tidd. Gisela spent the last month of her life at home with son Martin and Daughter-in-law Janice surrounded by many friends and family. Gisela chose direct cremation so there will be no ceremony or internment.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Friends of Animals Rescue of Junction City, Kansas.

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09/01/2025

Today, we pause to honor the hard work, dedication, and compassion that shape our communities. Wishing everyone a meaningful Labor Day—may it be filled with rest, gratitude, and appreciation for the difference you make every day.

08/28/2025

Dale Holvorson

Dale Holvorson, age 59, of Junction City passed away unexpectedly on August 20th. He is survived by two daughters, Michelle Holvorson of Wichita and Danyela Holvorson of Wellington, as well as his former wife Genoveva Holvorson of Wellington, and his sister Lori Gill of Key West, Florida.

Dale was a graduate of Junction City High School, and was formerly employed by Honeywell in Wichita as an aircraft instrument mechanic. He was an active member of Faith Lutheran Church, and sang in the Junction City community choir.

A memorial service will be held at Faith Lutheran Church at 1:00 pm on September 12th. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that any donations be made to the church.

View Dale Holvorson's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

08/27/2025

The more we try to push grief away, the longer and more painful the journey becomes. By welcoming grief with openness, we create space for true healing. As strange as it may feel, try to invite grief in like a friend—you can be mad, you can be sad, but at its core, every feeling is rooted in deep love.

08/26/2025

Today marks National Dog Day, and in honor of this special occasion, our team would like to share photos of their beloved canine companions. We are truly thankful for the companionship and joy that these furry friends bring into our lives. We invite you to share a picture of your dog in the comments below!

"Dogs are not our whole life, but they make our lives whole." ~ Roger Caras

08/21/2025

Heinz Christ Wallace

Heinz Wallace, 77, of Junction City, Kansas, passed away on Wednesday, August 20, 2025, with his family by his side at Ascension Via Christi in Manhattan, Kansas.

Heinz was born August 26, 1947, in Stuttgart, Germany, to Luise Windbiel. He was lovingly adopted through marriage by Leonard Wallace, and in 1959 came to the United States. With Leonard’s military service, the family eventually settled in Junction City, which became Heinz’s lifelong home. He attended St. Xavier Catholic schools and graduated from Junction City High School. He became a United States Citizen in 1969.

On September 5, 1981, Heinz married the love of his life, Pam Hampton, in McCook, Nebraska. Together they built a family and raised their two children, Christopher and Sara. Heinz worked in the glass industry for 62 years, and alongside Pam, owned and operated Wallace & Sons Glass in Junction City, where his craftsmanship and dedication became well known in the community.

Heinz will be remembered as a hardworking family man with a generous heart and a loyal circle of friends. He gave much of himself to his children’s activities, serving as a Little League baseball coach, Boy Scout leader, 4-H supporter, and the behind-the-scenes dad at countless dance recitals. Beyond family, Heinz found joy in fishing, hunting, dirt track racing, and restoring classic cars, attending shows to share his passion. A proud K-State Wildcat football fan, he rarely missed a game and held season tickets for many years.

Heinz was a lifetime member of the Geary County Fish and Game Association, where he served as a board member and participated actively in its programs. Among his many accomplishments, Heinz cherished his 45 years of sobriety, a testament to his strength, faith, and perseverance.

Heinz is survived by his wife Pam; his son Chris of Junction City; his daughter Sara (Andy) Larson of Randolph, Kansas; and his beloved granddaughter Clara Larson. He is also survived, from a previous marriage, by Melissa (Steve) Ice and their daughters, Lilly and Emma, of Overland Park; and by grandchildren Brittany K. Wallace and Bryce M. Wallace, children of his late son, Peter M. Wallace.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Luise; stepfather, Robert Ryan; and son, Peter M. Wallace.

Visitation will be held Wednesday, August 27, from 5:00-7:00 p.m., with family present. Funeral services will follow on Thursday, August 28, at 10:00 a.m., both at Johnson & Mass-Hinitt Funeral Home in Junction City, Kansas. Burial will follow the funeral service at St. Johns Cemetery in rural Geary County.

Memorial contributions can be made in Heinz’s name and will be designated at a later date by the family. Please make checks payable to the family.

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08/14/2025

Richard "Dick" H. Gfeller

Richard H. Gfeller, a cherished member of the Junction City community, passed away peacefully on August 13, 2025, at his rural residence in Geary County. Born on March 21, 1933, in Junction City, Kansas, Richard dedicated his life to his family, his farming enterprise, and the Hereford cattle he so dearly loved.

A visitation for Richard will be held on August 18, 2025, at Zion United Church of Christ in Junction City from 9:30 AM to 11:00 AM. followed by a funeral service at the same location at 11:00 AM with Pastor Erik Graefe officiating. His family invites all who knew Richard to join them in honoring a life well-lived and sharing in the many memories that continue to bring smiles and warmth to their hearts.

Dick married the love of his life Earlene J. Edney on August 19, 1955 in Junction City, Kansas at Zion United Church of Christ. She was his devoted partner and helped him in everyway that she could, from housework to farm work.

For nearly seven decades, Richard owned and operated Gfeller Herefords, faithfully contributing to the agricultural landscape of Junction City since 1957. His unwavering commitment earned him numerous accolades from the American Hereford Association, culminating in the prestigious 50-Year Golden Breeders Award in 2019, which celebrated over fifty years of excellence in raising Hereford cattle.

Richard was more than a farmer; he was a great storyteller, regaling friends and family with anecdotes about his life and experiences in agriculture. His infectious humor and warm personality made him a beloved figure among those who knew him. Conversations with Richard were a source of joy and positivity, leaving individuals feeling uplifted and appreciated.

As a devoted father, Richard is survived by his two sons, Kenny Gfeller and his wife Debby, and Mike Gfeller and his wife Linda, all of Junction City, Kansas. He also leaves behind his daughter, Lori Glasgow and her husband Don of Loveland, Colorado, and his sister, Janice Carlton of Junction City, Kansas. His legacy will continue through his seven grandchildren: Jamie Breeden and her husband Tyler, Josh Gfeller and his wife Courtney, Justin Gfeller, Jennifer Gfeller, Jessica Glasgow, Landon Glasgow, and Amanda Smith and her husband Tyler, as well as ten great-grandchildren who brought him immense joy.

Richard was passionate about various interests that enriched his life, including fishing, hunting, gardening, playing the guitar, target shooting, and smoking various types of meat. He was also an ardent fan of the Kansas City Chiefs, supporting his team with conviction.

He is preceded in death by his wife of sixty years, Earlene Gfeller; his parents, Lawrence and Murrel Telfer Gfeller, and his beloved sister, Bonnie Carpenter; one grandson, Gregory Gfeller

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to be given to the Zion United Church of Christ 1811 McFarland Road Junction City, Kansas 66441.

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