Obituaries

Wiletta Kay Lewis, of Council Grove, Kansas, passed away peacefully on March 21, 2026, at the age of 59.

May 22, 1939 — March 8, 2026 Helen Janice Briggs passed away peacefully in her sleep on Sunday, March 8, 2026. She had recently suffered a severe stroke and was transferred to the University of Kansas Medical Center for treatment. Due to the extent of the stroke, Helen was placed on hospice care and later resided at Diversicare Nursing Home in Council Grove, Kansas, where she received compassionate and loving care until her passing.

On March 15, 2026, Richard Lee Schwerdtfeger (Rick), Council Grove, KS, peacefully passed from this world and into Heaven to worship at the feet of Our Awesome God. Rick was born in El Dorado, KS on May 1,1951, to Albert and Velma Schwerdtfeger who preceded him in death. Rick is survived by his siblings, Sam Schwerdtfeger (Nina) Andover, KS; Edie Pennington Ellsworth, KS; Carol Frazee (Ralph) Ulysses, KS; Jody Eves (Greg) Salina, KS; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and other family members. He was preceded in death by brother-in-law, Rene Pennington. Rick is also survived by his wife Debra (Debi), his children and grandchildren. Rick and Debi (Kreger) were married in Ulysses, KS in April 1971. They were blessed with two children, Angela Schwerdtfeger, Council Grove, KS; Bryan Schwerdtfeger (Sara), Emporia, KS; and two grandchildren Elizabeth Schwerdtfeger (Tommy Secord Jr.) and Maxwell Schwerdtfeger. His family brought him much joy and happiness.