Carlson-Geisendorf Funeral Home & Crematory

11/21/2025

Virginia Lou Taylor

Virginia Lou (Davis) Taylor died November 20, 2025, in Abilene, Kansas, having reached the age of 92. She was born March 11, 1933 on a farm to Willard Lee and Mayme Isabelle (Schulz) Davis. Along with her loving siblings (who affectionately called her ‘Susie’), Virginia grew up four miles south of Sand Springs and was a farm girl at heart. She attended the Pearl and Independence County Schools, Abilene Junior High, and graduated from Abilene High School with the Class of 1951. She was a member of several 4-H clubs in her youth. She married Gerald ‘Jerry’ Bernard Taylor on March 30, 1952, in Abilene, where they spent most of their lives. She was a member of the United Methodist Church and UMW Circle and loved to contribute items for their annual bazaar. Virginia was a homemaker and a Certified Nurse’s Aid from 1967 – 1998, always working the night shift at Abilene Memorial Hospital. For several years, following her official retirement, she continued to care for elderly friends and neighbors who wanted to stay in their homes for their final years. She truly lived her belief in the sanctity of life.

As her boys grew up, she volunteered as a Den Mother for Troop #40 Boy Scouts of America, and helped with the Girl Scouts as well. An excellent seamstress, she created beautiful clothes and costumes for her daughters (and their dolls.) Never wasting any time, she taught herself how to crochet, cross-stitch, embroidery, and quilt making. She was an avid reader of books of all genres. She loved caring for her grandchildren and great grandchildren and with her grandchildren’s help, became an accomplished Nintendo 64 player. Her kindness and humble spirit will be missed by all who knew her.

Virginia was preceded in death by three of her siblings and their spouses; Wilma Nicholson (Sherman), Raymond Davis (Goldie), and George Davis (Alberta); and her sister-in-law, Mavis Davis. Her loving husband of 68 years, Gerald B. ‘Jerry’ Taylor died in February of 2021. She is survived by her sons, Scott L. Taylor (Roberta) of Topeka, Randall L. Taylor, and Garry R. Taylor of Abilene, and daughters, Nancy K. Goracke (Kim) of Manhattan, Janet L. Griggs (Randy) of Salina, and Sue A. Hern, also of Salina, her brother, Willard Lee David Davis II, of Abilene, 10 grandchildren, 12 great grandchildren, 1 great great grandchild, and many nieces and nephews.

There is no service planned at this time. The family suggests memorial contributions in her memory to the Abilene Animal Hospital, Adopt-A-Pet Fune, 320 NE 14th St, Abilene, Kansas 67410-1928.

View Virginia Lou Taylor's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

11/21/2025

Dr. Ted Allen Nickell

Dr. Ted Allen Nickell, PhD, age 87, of Salina, Kansas, passed away on Thursday, November 20, 2025.

Born on August 3, 1938, in Dodge City, Kansas, Ted was the son of Doris Margaret (Rabourn) and Virdie Allen Nickell. He proudly served in the United States Navy, then the Army Reserves, and later earned his doctorate from Missouri University.

Throughout his career, Ted held leadership roles as Vice President of Operations for several prominent retirement housing companies. He also dedicated time to working at St. Francis Boys Home, reflecting his lifelong commitment to service and care.

Ted is survived by his wife, Nancy; daughters Kimberly Cranston (Dave Blank) of Holdrege, Nebraska, and Serena Helvey of Salina, Kansas; and son Christopher Nickell (Laura) of Salina, Kansas. He leaves behind eight grandchildren—Danielle, Aaron (Sharalyn), Dylan (Brooke), Makenzie (Grant), Cade (Rhianna), Jackson (Alycia), Easton, and Aidan—and eight great-grandchildren: Greg, Dezmyn, Landin, Brenna, Addie, Bode, Axton, and Sunny.

He is also survived by two sisters, Judy Wilson (Ron) of Columbia, Missouri, and Cherie Phillips of Great Bend, Kansas.

Ted was preceded in death by his parents; his son, Rodney Nickell; and his son-in-law, David Helvey.

In accordance with his wishes, cremation has taken place. A memorial service will be held at 2:00 pm, Tuesday, November 25, 2025 at Carlson-Geisendorf Funeral Home in Salina.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Tunnels to Towers Foundation or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, in care of Carlson-Geisendorf Funeral Home.

View Dr. Ted Allen Nickell's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

11/20/2025

Life is filled with moments that touch our hearts, often made sweeter by the people who walk beside us. ❤️🍦

As Oscar Wilde reminds us, “Let us be grateful to the people who make us happy; they are the charming gardeners who make our souls blossom.”

Take a moment today to celebrate those who bring joy, comfort, and laughter into your life. Whether they’re family, lifelong friends, or someone who simply brightens your day, their presence is a true gift.

We honor those cherished relationships and the beautiful memories they leave behind. May we never take for granted the people who help our souls bloom. 🌼

11/19/2025

Grief can feel incredibly isolating, but no one should have to walk through loss alone. ❤️

Support groups can be a powerful resource for those who are grieving—offering understanding, shared experiences, and a safe space to talk with others who truly “get it.” Research shows that people who join support groups often experience improved emotional, mental, and even physical well-being.

If you or someone you love is navigating a difficult season, gently encouraging them to seek connection can make a meaningful difference.

We’re here to support families long after the service is over. If you need guidance or resources, please reach out. You’re not alone. 🕊️

11/18/2025

During times of loss, even the simplest words can bring tremendous comfort. ❤️
If you’re supporting someone who is grieving, letting them know “I’m here for you whenever you need me” can make all the difference.

Grief can feel overwhelming, and no one should walk through it alone. A gentle message, a listening ear, or a helping hand can offer real strength when it’s needed most.

We’re here to support families with the same compassion and care—before, during, and after the service. If you or someone you love is navigating a difficult time, please know you’re not alone.

🕊️ We’re always here when you need us.

11/18/2025

Jane Loraine Friess

Jane Loraine (Herman) Friess, 85, of Salina, Kansas, went to her eternal rest on Monday, November 17, 2025. Jane was born November 20, 1939 in Big Springs, Nebraska, to Thomas G. and Marie A. (Frank) Herman.

Her early childhood was spent in Big Springs, Nebraska and Denver, Colorado. She attended grade school at St. Bonaventure School in Chicago, Illinois. In 1958, she graduated from Hayden High School in Topeka, Kansas.

Jane married Fred Friess in 1958. To this union, 3 children were born, Cynthia, Christopher and Geralyn. They later divorced.

She worked for Beechcraft and Raytheon Aircraft for more than 26 years. She was an Employee’s Club Rep for many years. She enjoyed putting on different activities for members and their families. Jane also loved to dance, the waltz and polka were her favorites. She was president of the Jolly Mixers in Salina for 3 years. She was also president of the Sunflower Polka Club for 11 years. She really enjoyed visiting with club members and meeting new members.

Jane loved her family and enjoyed every minute she spent with them. She spent many, many wonderful hours with her grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her brother, Thomas Herman and one great granddaughter, Sulsar.

Survivors include her son, Christopher ‘Chris’ Friess; daughters, Cynthia ‘Cindy’ Friess, Geralyn ‘Geri’ Sulsar (Doug); grandsons, Jared Sulsar (Tracy), Joel Sulsar (Elise); granddaughters, Summer Lambert, Rachael Friess; great grandsons, Maxton, Perez, Aiden, and Mason Sulsar, Cole and Silas Sulsar; great granddaughters, Kimber Sulsar and Thea Sulsar.

Cremation was chosen.

The family will receive friends on Sunday, November 23, from 3:00 pm - 6:00 pm at Carlson-Geisendorf Funeral Home

Memorials may be made to the Sunflower Polka Club or to the charity of your choice, in care of Carlson-Geisendorf Funeral Home, 500 S. Ohio St., Salina.

View Jane Loraine Friess's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

11/18/2025

Brenda Sue Smith

Brenda Sue Smith, 68, of Salina, Kansas, passed away peacefully on Friday, November 14, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.

Born in Salina on November 20, 1956, to Bonnie (Crook) Chipman and Carl Honomichl, Brenda lived a life rooted in faith and compassion. She loved the Lord deeply and shared His love with everyone she met. Her favorite words to others were, “Jesus Loves You.”

Brenda is survived by her daughter, Charity Gibson; sister, Rhonda Warhurst (Frank); brothers, Charles Brodock (Matery Chipman), Michael Honomichl, and Miles Honomichl; and the father of her children, Ronald Smith. She also leaves behind 13 grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren, and numerous extended family members who will cherish her memory.

She was preceded in death by her parents and two children, Carl Honomichl and Tawanna Honomichl.

Cremation has been chosen. A graveside service will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, November 22, at Gypsum Hill Cemetery in Salina, Kansas.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Carlson-Geisendorf Funeral Home to assist with funeral expenses. Online condolences can be shared at www.carlsonfh.net or on the funeral home’s page.

Brenda’s unwavering faith and kindness touched countless lives. Her legacy of love will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

View Brenda Sue Smith's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

11/18/2025

"Good choices create opportunities. Good habits make the most of them."
– James Clear, author of Atomic Habits

11/17/2025

🌿 Planning Ahead Brings Peace Today 🌿

Have you ever wondered what preplanning a funeral actually does for you and your family? Our video breaks it down with 7 meaningful reasons why more families are choosing to make these decisions ahead of time.

From easing emotional stress to ensuring your wishes are honored, preplanning is truly a final gift of love. 💚

🎥 Watch the video to learn more—and if you have questions or would like to start the conversation, we’re here to help every step of the way.

📞 Contact us anytime or visit our website to explore your options.

11/13/2025

Share your funeral plans with loved ones if you've prearranged them.

11/12/2025

Funeral traditions and customs vary greatly among different religions, cultures and communities. If you're not sure about the family's customs, be sure to ask the funeral home beforehand about any special considerations you should keep in mind.

11/11/2025

Doyle Lynn Thurman

Doyle Lynn Thurman, 68, passed away on November 8, 2025. Born on September 19, 1957, in Crossville, Tennessee, Doyle spent much of his life in the Big Lick Community and was most recently residing in Ellsworth, Kansas.

After graduating high school, Doyle proudly served in the United States Air Force for four years. Following his military service, he built a long and successful career in oil and gas exploration, working as a crew manager and traveling extensively across the country.

Doyle is lovingly remembered by his former wife and lifelong friend, Julie Thurman; his children, Samuel Heron, Sara Reed, and Rebecca Heron; and his grandchildren, Jacob and Joshua Heron, and Emma Reed. He is also survived by his mother, Hallie Thurman; sister, Anna Vanwinkle; brother, Shane Thurman; four nieces; and a large extended family of great-nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father, Orville Thurman; paternal grandparents, Hugh and Pearl Thurman; and maternal grandparents, Winley and Zephie Phipps.

In accordance with Doyle’s wishes, cremation has taken place and no services are planned.

View Doyle Lynn Thurman's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.