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Donald J. Philippi (Don) 1924 - 2020
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Donald J. Philippi (Don)
Published: Nov 27, 2020, 7:12 PM

BUSHTON — Donald J. Philippi (Don), 96, of Bushton, Kan. passed away, Monday, Nov. 23, 2020 at Meadowlark Hills, Bramlage House where he was for two weeks, after a brief hospital stay at Via Christi. Donald received exemplary care by the caregivers and staff at Meadowlark. 

Donald James Philippi was born April 14, 1924 in Home, Kan. the son of Bernell and Hazel Philippi. Donald saw Naval Service in WWII in 1943. While in the Navy he met the love of his life, Shirley Barleen and they married in Los Angeles, Calif. in May 1944. They made many amazing memories in their 64 years of marriage. After his military service, he farmed briefly. He then went to work for Northern Natural Gas Company and Hydrocarbon Transportation Division where he spent his career of over 30 plus years. 

Donald thoroughly enjoyed his retirement of 34 years with his beloved wife, family and friends. Don and Shirley loved spending summers in Colorado camping in their RV. During the time they spent in the mountains, they enjoyed visits from their family and would fish, raft and take in the beautiful scenery. 

Don had a passion for being outdoors, hunting and fishing year round. He always looked forward to spending time with friends and family, as well as his coffee group where he spent many mornings, “solving world problems.” Don was very knowledgeable about Dodge trucks and it was no surprise to those who knew him well, that he was one of the best customers at the local dealer. Even at the age of 95, he was one of their toughest negotiators. In the last few years of his life, Don took great joy in spending time with his grandchildren and great grandchildren. 

He is survived by his brother, Norman Philippi, son, Michael Philippi (Cheryl), daughter-in-law, Dianna Philippi, and three grandchildren: Renee Arensberg (Jim), Jamie Philippi (Karina), and Cody Philippi; and four great grandchildren: Bella Philippi, Aidan Arensberg, Kaya Philippi and Kenzi Philippi.  

Don was preceded in death by his wife, Shirley Philippi, his son, Darrell Philippi, his parents, Bernell and Hazel Philippi, and his brother, Dwayne Philippi.


Funeral arrangements provided by

Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home 

1616 Poyntz Avenue 

Manhattan, KS 66502

Great Bend (Kan.) Tribune, Nov. 29, 2020
Theresa Lavona Dietz 1931 - 2025
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Theresa Lavona Dietz
Published: Apr 3, 2025, 6:57 PM

Theresa Lavona Dietz, 93, passed away April 2, 2025, at River Bend Assisted Living, Great Bend, Kan. She was born Aug. 25, 1931, daughter of Wilhelm “Bill” and Olinda (Schwartzkopf) Popp. She was baptized and confirmed in the Evangelical Reformed Church, which was located 1 mile west of Hwy 281 and 2 miles north of the Galatia blacktop. Growing up on the family farm northwest of Susank, Theresa attended grade school at District #91, then graduated from Hoisington High School in 1949.

Emil S. Dietz and Theresa were married on Nov. 27, 1949, in Milberger, Kan. He preceded her in death on Dec. 12, 2017. Theresa worked alongside her husband on the farm. But her greatest accomplishment was being homemaker for her husband and five children. Her talent knew no bounds with baking, quilting, and gardening. She was a member of St. Paul Lutheran Church and a 4-H Leader for the Fairview Scouts. 

Survivors include son, Ron Dietz (Debbie) of Dallas, Texas; daughters, Donna Wilhelm (Steve) of Galatia, Jane Steinert (Dennis) of Galatia, Laura Bryant (Daniel Wedermyer) of Rio Rancho, N.M., and Nancy Thiel (Mark) of Lenexa; grandchildren, Justin Steinert (Lauren), Kristi Engle (Cody), Todd Bryant (Cassie), Emilie Dietz and Mena Thiel; great grandchildren, Claire Engle, Gwen Engle, Kelsey Bryant, Kyler Bryant and Sophia Steinert; and sister, Shirley Maier. She was preceded in death her parents; beloved husband of 68 years, Emil; brother, Vernon Popp; sisters, Delores Dewald-Hanhardt, LoRee Dietz; and granddaughter, Andrea Bryant.

Funeral service will be held at 10 a.m., Monday, April 7, 2025, at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Galatia with Reverend Wayne Baldyga presiding. Interment will follow at Fairview Cemetery, Galatia. Visitation will take place from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m., Sunday, April 6, 2025, at Bryant Funeral Home with family receiving guests from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Memorials have been designated to Fairview Cemetery or St. Paul Lutheran Church, in care of Bryant Funeral Home, 1425 Patton Road, Great Bend, KS 67530. Condolences may be sent and notice viewed at www.bryantfh.net.



Funeral arrangements provided by

Bryant Funeral Home 

1425 Patton Road 

Great Bend, KS 67530

Great Bend (Kan.) Tribune, April 5, 2025