PAWNEE ROCK — Ben Unruh, 86, resident of Colorado Springs, Colo., and formerly of Woodward, Okla., and Pawnee Rock, passed away on Nov. 12 at Colorado Springs. Ben was born Sept. 25, 1924, north of Pawnee Rock to the late Benjamin and Carrie Unruh.

Ben honorably served his country in the Navy during World War II. After returning to Pawnee Rock, he married Josephine "Jo" Bieker on Aug. 10, 1949.They were blessed with 55 years of marriage.

Ben enjoyed working with wood and making such items as windmills and bird houses. He was an excellent gardener, growing large vegetables and flowers. He loved to play cards.

Mr. Unruh was a member of the Knights of Columbus 4th degree. He worked the Bingo evenings in Woodward for 30-plus years. He was an avid card player, from pinochle to poker.

Ben was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Jo, of Woodward, Okla., and his three brothers, Elmer Unruh of Enterprise, Albert "Buck" Unruh of Great Bend and Victor Unruh, who was killed in World War II. He is survived by numerous nieces and nephews who will miss him greatly.

Funeral will be at 11 a.m. Monday at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Larned, with Deacon Randolph Copeland presiding. There will be no visitation. Burial will be in the Larned Cemetery, Larned. Memorials may be sent to the group or organization of the donor’s choice in care of Morell Funeral Home, Larned. Personal condolences may be left at www.morellfuneralhomellc.com.

Funeral arrangements provided by

Morell Funeral Home*

P.O. Box 124/1021 Broadway

Larned, KS 67550-0124

620-285-2177

Great Bend (Kan.) Tribune, Nov. 14, 2010