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Rea Funeral Chapel and Cremation Services, 3510 W. 16th Street, Sedalia, MO (2025)

12/18/2025

Charles William Birch

Charles William Birch, 83, of Sedalia, Missouri, passed away on Wednesday, December 17, 2025, at Capital Regional Medical Center in Jefferson City, Missouri. He was born on April 1, 1942, in Piper City, Illinois, the son of Benton H. Birch and Mabel L. (Clemons) Birch, who preceded him in death.

On September 7, 1963, at St. John's Catholic Church, in Cullom, Illinois, Charles was united in marriage to Josephine A. Mills, who resides in the home.

Charlie worked for many years as a heavy equipment operator, a career he truly loved. He took great pride in operating machinery and was honored to be involved in the construction of the Harry S. Truman Dam. Throughout his career, he was employed by Kaiser Dozing and Eichler Excavating. When not working, Charlie enjoyed being outdoors mowing grass and caring for the family farm. He also spent countless hours tinkering in his basement while listening to his beloved bluegrass music. Above all else, Charlie's greatest joy was time spent with his family, especially his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

In addition to his wife, Josephine, Charlie is survived by two children, Annie Doogs (Duane Dunkin) of Sedalia and Michael Birch (Jammi) of Green Ridge; six grandchildren, Matthew (Leann), Sara (Trent), Tanita (Tanna), Cory (Mark), Jeremy (Bailey), and Joshua; six great-grandchildren, Gunner, Lily, Ila, Scarlet, Mattelynn, and Amelia; one brother, Roy Birch of Herscher, Illinois; two sisters, Barb Tate (Ron) of Cabery, Illinois, and Janice Birch of Cabery, Illinois; two sisters-in-law, Joanne Birch of Monee, Illinois, and Jill Birch of Cabery, Illinois; along with many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

In addition to his parents, Charlie was preceded in death by a daughter, Laura Birch; two brothers, David Birch and Roger Birch; a sister, Patricia Birch; and a son-in-law, Jimmy Doogs.

A celebration of life gathering with family and friends will be held at a later date.

Arrangements are in the care of Rea Funeral Chapel.

View Charles William Birch's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

12/18/2025

Rita Mae Arndt

Rita Mae Arndt, 79, of Sedalia, MO, passed away on Sunday, December 14, 2025, at Legendary Nursing and Rehabilitation in Marshall, MO. She was born on October 4, 1946, in Blythsville, AR, the daughter of Roy and Stella (Griffin) Barber, who preceded her in death.

Rita was known for her love of puzzles, amassing an impressive collection that she assembled and disassembled countless times over the years. She cherished spending time with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, showering them with affection and attention. She was exceptionally neat, organized, and independent, traits she took great pride in. Rita began each day with her morning coffee and maintained a mostly vegetarian diet, with the occasional indulgence in bacon. She delighted in simple pleasures like cheese and crackers, orange soda, fried cabbage, and ice cream sandwiches. Her meticulousness extended to both her living space and appearance, and she was always impeccably put together.

Rita made her home on Redman Ave. for many years before her health declined about seven years ago, prompting a move to assisted living. Remarkably, she made a full recovery within a few months and continued to live independently for the remainder of her years there. She exceeded expectations in caring for herself and remained self-reliant in every way possible within the facility.

Rita maintained a lifelong relationship with God and, in recent years, deepened her faith and spiritual understanding.

She is survived by her daughter, Linda Arndt; six grandchildren, Hailey Harris, Chris Davis, Katie White, William Deibel, Lani Russell, and Emily Russell; and two great-grandchildren, Mavory Renfrow and Eli Harris. Rita also found joy in the company of her dear friend Vicki and Vicki's daughter, Lucy, who were like family to her.

Besides her parents, Rita was preceded in death by two children, Kimberly Deibel and Amos Roberts Jr.

A celebration of life gathering of family and friends will be from 1:30 p.m. until 2:30 p.m. on Monday, January 5, 2026, at Rea Funeral Chapel, 3510 W. 16th St., Sedalia, MO.

Arrangements are in the care of Rea Funeral Chapel.

View Rita Mae Arndt's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

12/18/2025

Frank John Farmer

Frank John Farmer, 76, of Sedalia, MO, passed away on Thursday, December 11, 2025, at Boone Hospital Center in Columbia, MO. He was born on February 1, 1949, in Kansas City, MO, the son of Frank Wallace Farmer and Hazel Irene (Ott) Farmer, who preceded him in death.

He went by John, his middle name. He grew up in Sweet Springs, MO, where he attended R-7 elementary and high schools. His parents were the owners and operators of The Sweet Springs Herald newspaper and a related printing business. John grew up learning the printing trade, skills he used as an adult when he worked for several years in the printing department of the Kansas City Star. Although a talented printer, John's long-term employment and biggest interest were in cars. He sold used cars on his own and worked his whole life for various used car dealerships. He also raced stock cars on tracks throughout Missouri and occasionally out of state.

He was proud of being a founding member of the United Late Model Racing Association.

John also did side jobs. For example, he ran his own business selling snowmobiles when they were a new, popular thing in the Midwest. For a while, he also did sign painting. He was an auctioneer and a licensed real estate agent.

He gained some college hours at State Fair Community College. After he left his last job at a used-car dealership in Clinton, MO, he retired to Sedalia, where he did some vehicle air conditioning work on his own.

Frank is survived by a sister, Cynthia Nold of Sweet Springs; a nephew, Raymond Nold of Sweet Springs; a grandniece; and several cousins.

A celebration of life will be announced by the family at a later date.

Cremation arrangements are in the care of Rea Funeral Chapel, Sedalia, MO.

View Frank John Farmer's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

12/15/2025

Charles Edward Kratzer

Charles Edward Kratzer, 84, of Sedalia, passed away on Saturday, December 13, 2025, at the University of Kansas Medical Center in Kansas City, KS. He was born on July 23, 1941, in Tuscumbia, MO, the son of Noah Allen Kratzer and Margaret (Thompson) Kratzer, who preceded him in death.

On May 23, 2013, in Sedalia, MO, he was united in marriage to Linda Garcia, who survives him and resides in the home.

Chuck was a faithful member of the First United Methodist Church Celebration Center. He worked for many years as a forklift driver at Maxion Wheels, retiring in 2002. Chuck had a deep passion for antique tractors, especially restoring Ford 8N farm tractors. He also enjoyed collecting and driving classic cars and could often be seen proudly driving his 1937 Ford Coupe in local parades and around town.

Music was another joy in Chuck's life. He loved listening to classic country music from the 1940s and 1950s, with Elvis Presley and Dolly Parton among his favorites. Above all, Chuck cherished time spent with his family, especially his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He also enjoyed hunting and fishing with his sons, creating memories that will be treasured for generations.

In addition to his wife, Linda, Chuck is survived by five children: Mike Kratzer (Michelle) of Fulton, MO; Cathy Tague (Willie) of Sedalia, MO; Chuck Kratzer, Jr. (Shawna) of Sedalia, MO; Allen Kratzer (Kim) of Sedalia, MO; and Tony Kratzer (Trina) of Smithton, MO; a stepdaughter, Leslie Allen (T.J.) of Blue Springs, MO; twenty grandchildren, Jessica, Breanon, Ryan, Alex, John, Josh, Katie, Morgan, Mallory, Tayler, Beau, Ashley, Cody, Bailey, Alex, Madison, Kelcie, Noah, Sariyah, and Magdalena; thirteen great-grandchildren, Myles, Creed, Charlie, Bryer, Amyah, Stella, Eleanor, Flora, Alani, Venture, Josh, Jordyn, and Kolyns; three sisters, Rose Flora (Bob) of Tonganoxie, KS, Kay Haggerman of Eldon, MO, and Ruth Workman (Gail) of Eldon, MO; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

In addition to his parents, Chuck was preceded in death by a son, Jeff Kratzer; four sisters; and two brothers.

A graveside memorial service will be held at Memorial Park Cemetery in Sedalia, MO.

Memorial contributions may be made to First United Methodist Church Celebration Center or to Dialysis Clinic - Sedalia, in care of Rea Funeral Chapel.

View Charles Edward Kratzer's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

12/15/2025

Frances July Dean Tucker

Frances July Dean "Deannie" Tucker, 80, of Sedalia, MO, passed away peacefully on Friday, December 12, 2025, at her home. She was born on June 29, 1945, in Stover, MO, the daughter of Willis Lee Monteer and Gertie F. (Whittle) Monteer, who preceded her in death.

Deannie devoted her working years to caring for others as a home health care aide. Known for her compassionate heart and gentle spirit, she shared a special bond with the elderly and took great pride in helping those in need. Deannie enjoyed reading, playing bingo, and crocheting, but her greatest joy came from visiting with and spending time alongside her family and friends. Those who knew her well will fondly remember her spirited personality and her unwavering confidence, she never hesitated to explain exactly why she was right.

Deannie is survived by her daughter, Karen Hester of Windsor; her son, Dale Pottorff (Linda) of Sedalia; four grandchildren, Aaron, Ashley, Mackientzy, and Alexzander; fourteen great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren; three brothers, Everett Monteer (Lisa) of Sedalia, Larry Monteer (Wendy) of Chillicothe, and Earl Dean Monteer (Vanessa) of Cole Camp; as well as many nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, Deannie was preceded in death by two sisters, Madeline Lawson and Willa Mae Tunnell; and three brothers, Milford Monteer, Winford Monteer, and Lorene Monteer.

A celebration of life gathering will be held from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. on June 27, 2026, at a location to be announced at a later date.

Cremation arrangements are in the care of Rea Funeral Chapel.

View Frances July Dean Tucker's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

12/12/2025

Jonnie Von Benton

Jonnie Von Benton, 87, of Sedalia passed away on December 12, 2025, at Sylvia G. Thompson Residence Center in Sedalia, MO. He was born on September 3, 1938, in Miami, FL, the son of Jonnie David and Arlene Alethia (Bostick) Benton, who preceded him in death.

On June 26, 1961 in Denver, CO, he was united in marriage to Jaqueline Suzanne Galloway, who preceded him in death on February 27, 2009.

A complete obituary will be coming soon.

Arrangements are under the direction of Rea Funeral Chapel.

View Jonnie Von Benton's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

12/12/2025

Kenneth C. Hampy

Kenneth C. Hampy, 74, of Hughesville, MO, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family, on Wednesday, December 10, 2025, at Boone Hospital Center in Columbia, MO. He was born on August 27, 1951, in Sedalia, MO, the son of Melvin R. Hampy and Ruth J. (Cook) Hampy, who preceded him in death.

On June 9, 1973, in Hughesville, Ken was united in marriage to Sonya Wiskur Walter, who resides in Hughesville.

Ken was a proud graduate of Smithton High School, Class of 1969. He continued his education at the University of Central Missouri, earning a bachelor's degree in Physical Education in 1976. Ken began his career in education as a Physical Education teacher at K**b Noster Junior High, where he also coached boys basketball and football. He later joined UPS as a driver, dedicating 35 years of faithful service before retiring in 2013.

Ken had a lifelong love of sports, especially baseball. He was a devoted fan of the Kansas City Royals and Kansas City Chiefs. Above all, Ken cherished time spent with his family. He was deeply involved in his children's lives, coaching their teams, attending every game he could, and later cheering proudly for his grandchildren at their athletic events. He enjoyed collecting baseball, basketball, and football cards, watching the Barrett-Jackson Auto Auction and The Curse of Oak Island, and meticulously caring for his lawn. Ken also loved playing board games and trivia games with his family. His greatest joy came from his children and grandchildren, whom he was immensely proud of. And now, Ken finally knows the answer to Oak Island's famous question: "Could it be?"

Ken is survived by three children: Sharla Taylor (Brandon) of Ozark, MO; Aaron Hampy of Prairie Home, MO; and Shawn Hampy (Mary Drenon) of Sedalia, MO; seven grandchildren: Austin, Ava, Kyndra, Mia, Olivia, Saige, and Will; a brother, William Hampy of Chillicothe, MO; a sister, Shirley Oelrichs (David) of Jefferson City, MO; and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Ken was preceded in death by a sister, Helen Mahnken and her husband Eugene.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, at Rea Funeral Chapel, with Kevin Holbert and Pastors Tony and Merry Kroeger officiating.

The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the chapel.

Burial will follow at High Point Cemetery in Hughesville, MO.

Pallbearers will be Aaron Hampy, Shawn Hampy, Fritz Walter, Austin Buso, David Oelrichs, and Brandon Nulsen.

Honorary bearers will be Billy Hampy, Mick Selken, Mike Cunningham, Kevin Mahnken, Brian Mahnken, and Derek Mahnken.

Memorial contributions may be made to the family, in care of Rea Funeral Chapel.

View Kenneth C. Hampy's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

12/12/2025

Evelyn Marie Yonce

Evelyn Marie Yonce, 83, of Sedalia, MO, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family, on Thursday, December 11, 2025, at E.W. Thompson Health and Rehabilitation Center. She was born on February 3, 1942, in Miami, MO, the daughter of Noah Andrew Jordan and Vivian Marie (Harvey) Jordan, who preceded her in death.

On May 27, 1962, in Sedalia, she was united in marriage to Marcel Eldon Yonce, who preceded her in death on August 28, 2012.

Evelyn was a member of Bethlehem Baptist Church and a graduate of Smith-Cotton High School, Class of 1959. She loved to reminisce about her first job working at the Missouri State Fair for McKinney's Fried Chicken. Following high school, she began her career with Third National Bank, where she served for 36 years. She retired in 1996, joyfully dedicating her time to her granddaughter, Hannah.

In 1990, Evelyn co-founded Instrumental Influence Music Store with her husband and son, an endeavor she was deeply proud of. She treasured her friendships within the Smith-Cotton Class of 1959 and the Friends of the Covered Bridge. During her sons' years in the Smith-Cotton band program, she was an active supporter and served as Treasurer for the TIMPO Band Boosters, accompanying the group on two memorable college bowl trips. Evelyn also served her community as a board member for the Salvation Army and was an active member of the Women's Banking Association. Gifted with a love for numbers, she shared her talents as treasurer for several organizations.

Evelyn loved her family dearly. Spending time with them, especially Hannah, brought her joy. She enjoyed traveling with friends and cherished family trips to Branson. Evelyn devoted herself as a compassionate caregiver to her husband, Marcel, and to her son, Chad, during their battles with cancer. She found great fulfillment assisting her granddaughter's ministry work at Forest Avenue Shelter.

Evelyn is survived by her son, Marcel "Cayle" Yonce and his wife, Lisa, of Sedalia; her granddaughter, Hannah Yonce and her husband, Donavan Brickey, of Sedalia; a brother-in-law, Verlin Yonce of Blue Springs; sisters-in-law, Rosalee Jordan and Anita Jordan, both of Sedalia; nieces, Christa Harlow (Mark), Peggy Zaret (Adam), and Lora Pfeifer (Matt); nephews, Wesley Jordan (Patty) and Brent Jordan; six great-nieces and four great-nephews.

In addition to her husband and parents, she was preceded in death by her son, Chad Yonce; and two brothers, Luther Jordan and David Jordan.

Evelyn loved purple. The family invites guests to wear purple to her services, both in her memory and in honor of dementia awareness.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, December 17, 2025, at Rea Funeral Chapel, with Pastors Jason Kindle and Rob Ayers officiating. Burial will follow at Crown Hill Cemetery, Sedalia, MO.

The family will receive friends from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, at the funeral chapel.

Pallbearers will be Donavan Brickey, Cody Irvin, Wesley Jordan, Brent Jordan, James Green, Patrick Hofheins, David Wolf, and Matt Pfeifer.

Honorary pallbearers will be Rene Ruepert, Mark Harlow, Adam Zaret, and the Smith-Cotton Class of 1959.

Memorial contributions are suggested for Christmas gifts for the residents of E.W. Thompson Health and Rehabilitation Center. Please make checks payable to Cayle Yonce.

View Evelyn Marie Yonce's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

12/11/2025

Charlotte Anne Charlton

Charlotte "Charli" Anne Charlton, 76, of Sedalia, MO, passed away on Thursday, December 11, 2025, at Sylvia G. Thompson Residence Center in Sedalia. She was born on July 13, 1949, in Lompoc, California, the daughter of Roy Paul Jones and Frances Lorene (Williams) Jones, who both preceded her in death.

On December 18, 1991, in Hannibal, MO, she was united in marriage to the love of her life, Charles Arlow Charlton, who survives of the home.

Charli lived a life filled with joy, generosity, and a fun-loving spirit. She especially enjoyed playing bingo, visiting casinos, and sharing laughter with friends and family. For many years, she owned and operated a beloved candy store in Hannibal, MO, where she earned the nickname "The Candy Lady." She became well-known in the community for her warm personality and her famous, unforgettable fudge, considered by many to be the very best around.

Above all, Charli treasured her family. Her happiest moments were those spent with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, each of whom held a special place in her heart. She also cherished the enduring friendships she shared with Carol (Culp) Lockwood and Cindy Culp, whom she considered part of her extended family.

In addition to her husband, survivors include a son, Jason Schuetz of Kahoka, MO; a daughter, Tara Sleeper (William) of Sedalia; thirteen grandchildren: Brittany, Blaze, Bryce, Kylie, Hailey, Gavin, Ian, Samuel, Paitence, Naomi, Hannah, Cheyenne, and Kasey; and eighteen great-grandchildren.

A private Celebration of Life Gathering will be held by the family.

Memorial contributions may be made to the family in the care of Rea Funeral Chapel.

View Charlotte Anne Charlton's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

12/11/2025

Loyd H. Gudenschwager

Loyd Henry Gudenschwager, 93, of Sedalia, MO, passed away on Thursday, December 4, 2025, at The Living Center in Marshall, MO. He was born on November 3, 1932, in Reedsburg, WI, the son of Walter and Louise Gudenschwager, who preceded him in death.

On February 19, 1955, in Sedalia, MO, Loyd was united in marriage to Dorothy Wagner, who preceded him in death on January 19, 2017.

Loyd was a devoted member of St. Vincent de Paul Parish, Sacred Heart Church. He worked for many years as the head of maintenance for the Sedalia 200 School District, where he was known for his dedication, work ethic, and friendly nature. Loyd proudly served his country in the United States Air Force and was stationed at Whiteman Air Force Base.

A true outdoorsman, Loyd loved fishing and hunting. He enjoyed dancing at the Old Smiths Country Music Barn and was always ready for a good game of Rummy, one he rarely lost. Above all, Loyd cherished time spent with his beloved wife, family, and friends.

Loyd is survived by one son, Richard Gudenschwager and his wife, Laura, of Sedalia; two grandsons, Craig Allen Harvey (Amanda) and Brent Dean Gudenschwager (Krissy); one great-granddaughter, Brynley Harvey; a sister, Lois Hinze; and numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to his wife and parents, Loyd was preceded in death by a brother, Norman Gudenschwager, and two sisters, Wilma Ennis and Jeanette Manville.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, December 18, 2025, at Rea Funeral Chapel, with Pastor Dave Jagemann officiating.

Inurnment will be held at Crown Hill Cemetery with full military honors by the United States Air Force and Sedalia VFW Post #2591.

Arrangements are under the direction of Rea Funeral Chapel.

View Loyd H. Gudenschwager's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

12/08/2025

Theresa L. Adair

Theresa "Terri" L. Adair, 61, of Sedalia, MO, passed away on Friday, December 5, 2025, at her home. She was born on February 24, 1964, in Troy, MO, the daughter of Robert Roller and Joyce Ann (Craig) Roller, who preceded her in death.

On December 20, 1998, in La Monte, MO, Terri was united in marriage to David Adair, who resides in the home.

Terri was deeply devoted to her family. She cherished time spent with her loved ones and found her greatest joy in being with her grandchildren. Her gentle spirit, caring nature, and love for family will be remembered always.

In addition to her husband, Terri is survived by two sons, David Thompson (Alice) and Aaron Thompson (Brittany), all of Sedalia; five grandchildren; a brother, Byron Roller (Kathleen) of Jefferson City, MO; and a sister, Melinda Skutnick of Kansas City, MO.

Along with her parents, Terri was preceded in death by a sister, Cindy Williams.

Cremation arrangements are under the care of Rea Funeral Chapel.

View Theresa L. Adair's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

12/07/2025

Nellie Eileen Berryman

Nellie Eileen Berryman was born on August 14, 1937, in St. Louis, Missouri, to Clarence Roland and Mabel Coral (Welcher) Shellhart, the seventh of nine children. She departed this life on Thursday, December 4, 2025, at Bothwell Regional Health Center in Sedalia, Missouri, at the age of 88 years.

She attended country school and then public schools in Missouri and Iowa, as the family moved several times. She graduated from Grinnell High School in Grinnell, Iowa, in 1955. Eileen met Harold Marshall in Grinnell, and they were married in January 1956. They made their home on farms near Weldon, Iowa, and raised two daughters, Brenda and Sheryl. In the late 1980s, Eileen moved to Cole Camp, Missouri. She helped to care for her mother and studied and obtained her certification as a medical technician. She worked in that capacity at Good Samaritan Nursing Home in Cole Camp, where she retired.

Eileen was united in marriage to Robert Berryman in April 2002. They lived in Cole Camp, and Bob preceded her in death on December 11, 2019. Eileen continued to live in their home until her death.

Eileen was a wonderful seamstress, cook, and gardener, and loved books, flowers, and birds. She cared passionately for her family and dear friends. She was always checking up on those whom she loved, calling them to catch up and visit.

Eileen was preceded in death by her parents, Clarence and Mabel Shellhart; her husband, Robert Berryman; her siblings, Margaret Shellhart, Dorothy Peroutka, James Shellhart, Shirley Hemmer, Jack Shellhart, George Shellhart, and William Shellhart; her daughter, Sheryl Marshall; and her granddaughter, Alexis Baughman.

She is survived by a daughter, Brenda (Robert) Wickett of New Virginia, Iowa; grandchildren, Brian (Misty) Wickett of New Virginia, Iowa, Sarah (Joel) Adams of Winterset, Iowa, Nathan (Jill) Wickett of New Virginia, Iowa, and Jacob (Misty) Parmer of Oxford, Mississippi; great-grandchildren, Devin Adams of Winterset, Iowa, Noah and Jace Wickett of New Virginia, Iowa, and Anna and Leah Cooper of Oxford, Mississippi; and sister, Carolyn (Tom) Henley of Jefferson City, Missouri. Eileen is also survived by many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

In accordance with her wishes, Eileen was cremated with arrangements made in care of Rea Funeral Chapel, and there will be no local service. A private burial will take place at the New Virginia Cemetery in New Virginia, Iowa, at a later date. Memorials may be directed to the family.

View Nellie Eileen Berryman's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

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