Leona Bartonek, 100, passed away Dec. 13, 2023, at Brookdale Fairdale, Salina, Kan. She was born on Aug. 21, 1923, in Olmitz, Kan., to Charles and Anna (Riedl) Lichter. On May 29, 1945, she married Vernon Bartonek at St. Ann’s Catholic Church in Olmitz.  Vernon passed away May 16, 2008.

Spending most of her life in Olmitz, Leona worked as the food service manager for St. Ann School. She was a member of St. Ann Catholic Church and Altar Society. Leona was a talented musician, playing the trumpet in school, then later the organ and accordion, and singing in the choir. She could grow anything in her garden, which was perfectly aligned, and that meticulous care was also shown greatly in the love she gave to her family. Leona loved spending time with loved ones, especially the grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Survivors include a son, Alan Bartonek and wife, Linda, of Salina; two grandchildren, Lynae Curtis and husband, Greg, of Hoisington, and Daniel Bartonek and wife, Ashley, of Great Bend; four great grandchildren, Derrick Bartonek and wife, Alex, Krystle Schlochtermeier and husband, Blaize, Brenna Thompson, and Blake Thompson; and four great great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband; and her parents.

Visitation will be held from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 17, 2023, at Bryant Funeral Home, with family to receive friends from 2 to 4 p.m. An Altar Society Rosary will be held at 1 p.m. Monday, Dec. 18, 2023, with funeral service following at 1:30 p.m., at Bryant Funeral Home, with Father Warren Stecklein presiding. Interment will be in Great Bend Cemetery. Memorials have been designated to St. Ann Catholic Church, in care of Bryant Funeral Home. 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, Dec. 16, 2023