OTHELLO, Wash. — Irene E. Harper, 88, died Nov. 20, 2011 at Kadlec Regional Medical Center in Richland, Wash.
She was born April 8, 1923 in Ellinwood, the daughter of Frank Wendel and Maggie Britenbach Wendel. She married Elmer Harper. Together they farmed until 1961 when they moved to Basin, Wyo. and purchased the Landmark-Markham Hotel where Irene catered dinners and lunches. They sold the hotel in 2003 and moved to Othello, Wash, where she lived since. She was an avid bridge player and enjoyed gardening.
Mrs. Harper was of the Catholic faith.
Survivors include a son, James Harper, Moses Lake, Wash.; a brother Ambrose Wendel, Great Bend; two grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband.
Graveside services will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 26 at the Lakin-Comanche District Cemetery in Ellinwood with Father Charles Mazouch officiating. Friends may call from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday at the funeral home. Memorials are suggested to a favorite charity.

Funeral arrangements provided by
Kimple, Inc. Funeral Home *
P.O. Box 246
Ellinwood, KS, 67526
Great Bend (Kan) Tribune, Nov. 23, 2011