Rhea Jean Schartz, 62, passed away on Jan. 12, 2022 at St. Catherine Hospital, Garden City, Kan. She was born on Oct. 26, 1959 at Great Bend, Kan. to Robert Eugene and Dora Jean (Smith) Applegate. Rhea married Kevin Schartz Dec. 17, 1977 at Great Bend, Kan.  

A lifetime area resident, she worked for St. Joseph Catholic School as a cook for 18 years. Rhea enjoyed playing the lottery and casinos, specifically slots. She loved the school children, holidays especially the family time that came with them, and spoiling her grandkids.

Rhea is survived by her husband Kevin Schartz of the home; two sons, Aaron (Lindsey) Schartz of Great Bend, Seth (Krystal) Schartz of Ellinwood; three brothers Robert “Lynn” (Noreen) Applegate of Topeka, Randy (Diane) Applegate of Hoisington, Ryan (Chawntae) Applegate of Hebron, Kent.; and three grandchildren, Avery, Payton, and Parker Schartz. She is preceded in death by her parents.

Visitation will take place on Sunday, Jan. 16, 2022 from 1 to 8 p.m. with a rosary service at 7 p.m., all at Bryant Funeral Home. Funeral service will take place at 10 a.m. on Monday, Jan. 17, 2022, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Ellinwood with Father Terrance Klein presiding. Interment will follow at Great Bend Cemetery. Memorials can be made to the St. Joseph Catholic School, 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, Jan. 14, 2022