July 9, 1950 – September 2, 2024

Alma Caudell, née Allen, was born to Paul and Ethel Allen on July 9, 1950, in
Burlington, Kansas. She passed away peacefully on September 2, 2024, with her
beloved husband of 54 years by her side, at Life Care Center of Burlington, after a long
illness.

Alma attended Burlington schools and graduated in 1968. On June 27, 1970, she
married Ken Caudell at the First Christian Church in Burlington, Kansas. The couple’s
years together were marked by commitment to each other and the family they raised.

Growing up on the family farm in the days before indoor plumbing and telephones, Alma
learned many essential skills—gardening, canning, and caring for animals. These early
experiences shaped her strong work ethic and practical nature.

After attending Kansas State Teachers College in Emporia for two years, she took time
off to raise her family. In 1973, Alma began working alongside her husband as a Driver’s
License Examiner in Overland Park, Kansas, making them the first couple to work
together in this role.

In late 1974, Ken was promoted, and the family moved to Junction City, where Alma
took a position at the Manhattan Driver’s License Office. They eventually settled in
Emporia around 1977. Alma’s passion for helping others led her to take a

paraprofessional job in Special Education, which inspired her to return to school and
fulfill her lifelong dream of teaching. She graduated in 1982 from Emporia State
University with a BA in Psychology and went on to teach Special Education at Central
Heights in Richmond, Kansas. In addition, Alma served as an adjunct professor at
Neosho County Community College, teaching Psychology.

Alma taught at Central Heights from 1982 until 1991, when she retired due to the
progression of blindness caused by Retinitis pigmentosa. After retiring from teaching,
the family returned to Burlington, where Ken continued to work in his own body shop
and their youngest son Paul attended school.

Before her sight began to fade, Alma was deeply involved in her children’s activities,
making sure they participated in a wide range of endeavors—4-H, Scouts, athletics, art,
theater, band, choir, and forensics. Always volunteering, she baked for events, canned
almost anything, and if she wasn’t making food, she was judging, collecting tickets, or
helping manage student events.

As her vision further declined, Alma found comfort in simple joys. She and Ken would
take drives around town, where Ken described the sights to her as they talked about
how much the town had changed. Though she became less inclined to leave the house,
she enjoyed listening to audiobooks, following the Kansas City Chiefs and KU
basketball, and playfully arguing with Alexa. Alma remained connected to her children
and grandchildren, asking endless questions when they visited.

Alma was preceded in death by her parents, Paul and Ethel (Lipe) Allen, and her oldest
brother, Stephen (Steve) Allen. She is survived by her husband Ken; three children:
Kendra and her husband Jonathan of Agricola; Ken and his wife Malissa of Melvern,
along with their children Brandon and Erin; and Paul and his wife Karen of Burlington,
along with their children KJ and Molli. Additional survivors include her youngest brother
Richard of Burlington, her sister-in-law Carol Allen of Burlington, and many nieces and
nephews.

In accordance with her very adamant wishes, there will be no traditional service. Alma
will be cremated, honoring her request for simplicity.

Condolences may be mailed to 415 S. 4th, Burlington, KS 66839. Memorial
contributions in Alma’s memory can be made to the Foundation Fighting Blindness, also
sent to 415 S. 4th, Burlington, KS 66839.

If you wish to celebrate Alma, take a moment to walk barefoot outside, plant a
rosebush, iris, or tulips, and remember her quiet strength and enduring spirit.

MAY 04, 1942 - SEPTEMBER 02, 2024

With great sadness, we announce the passing of William (Bill) Morris Brune, 82, of Topeka, Kansas, on September 2, 2024. Bill was born on May 4, 1942, to Carl and Dorothy Brune in Topeka.

After graduating from Topeka High, he began a machinist apprenticeship at the Santa Fe (BNSF) Shops, marking the start of his lifelong career working for the railroad. Bill met his wife, Dianne, while still in high school. They went on to have two children, William M. Jr., married to Aurora K. Brune, and Christine M. Blocker, married to John L. Blocker.

Bill was preceded in death by his brother, Terry. He is survived by his two sisters, Karen and Susie, his beloved grandchildren: Patrick Blocker, Catie Capps (Blair), Mark Brune (Aya), Kyle Blocker, and Liz Brune, as well as his cherished dog, Penny.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to Midland Care Hospice in Topeka, Kansas, in Bill's memory.

DECEMBER 01, 1947 - AUGUST 15, 2024

Merrick "Mike" Vane Goodman, 76, born on December 1, 1947, in Kissimmee, Florida, passed
away peacefully on August 15, 2024 at the Colmery-O'Neil Veterans' Administration Medical
Center in Topeka, Kansas. He was a dedicated father, brother, husband, and a proud veteran
whose life was marked by service, community involvement, music, and a love for learning.

Mike was predeceased by his parents James Norris Goodman and Verna Christine Brackin and
cousins Jimmy Goodman and Daryl Goodman (Florida).

Mike is survived by his two sons, Jeffery Goodman (Topeka, KS) and James Goodman
(Bloomington, IN) and his ex-wife Barbara Goodman (Topeka, KS), who will always remember
his strength and kindness. He is also survived by his sisters, Marian Robinson (St. Cloud, FL)
and Karen Goodman Glenn (Live Oak, FL) and cousin Robin Goodman (Warner Robins, GA)
who shared many cherished memories with him, and by Kimberly Markham (Ozawkie, KS).
After graduating from high school in Florida, Mike entered the Air Force, where he served his
country with honor. While stationed at Forbes Air Force Base in Topeka, Kansas, he met
Barbara Sappenfield, and they soon married.

Mike’s career was diverse and impactful. He worked as a cab driver and a chimney sweep, yet
his true calling was as a firefighter. His bravery and leadership led him to the rank of captain, a
role he held with distinction until his retirement. After retiring, Mike settled in Ozawkie, Kansas,
where he remained active in the community, particularly with the American Legion.

Mike was active in the Boy Scouts of America as a teenager in Florida and with his two sons
with BSA Troop 10 in Topeka, Kansas. He was fortunate enough to visit Philmont Scout Ranch
in New Mexico four times, once as a scout himself and three times as an assistant scoutmaster
with his Eagle Scout sons in Troop 10.

Mike enjoyed the outdoors and participated in camping and hunting. Most camping trips
included a traditional teepee and his hunting trips involved hand-made muzzleloader rifles. Mike
participated in several muzzleloader competitions and took home awards for his marksmanship
skills.

Mike's preferred mode of transportation was on a motorcycle. He owned several Harley
Davidson models over the years.

In addition to his professional achievements, Merrick had a passion for music and literature. He
enjoyed playing the guitar, listening to music, and reading books, which brought him great joy
and relaxation. He attended the Winfield Bluegrass Festival with his family several times,
camping in the teepee and reveling in the free spirit of the late 1970s.

A memorial service will be held to celebrate Mike’s life and legacy. Details will be shared with
family and friends in the coming days.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to a charity of your choice in
Mike’s name.

May he rest in peace.

In Memory Of
Shane Chandler Kingman
1969-2024

Shane Chandler Kingman, 54, of Topeka, passed away Sunday August 25, 2024, in his home.
Shane was born November 3, 1969, in Topeka, Kansas, the son of Kenneth Kingman and
Virginia Kingman (Carriger). For the past 16 years Shane was employed by the Local
Carpenters Union # 1445. Prior to this Shane worked various jobs as a bouncer, bartender, and
in other trades.

Shane married Robin Rae Funk (Waggoner) on April 25, 2015, in Topeka. She survives. Other
survivors include his son Chandler Kingman; stepdaughters Tristen (Larry) Langston, Brooke
(Joe) Rose, Carrie (Tanner) Etzel; 11 grandchildren; sister Annalisa Kingman; brother Patrick
Kingman; nephews Brian (Tara) Pollard, Dominic (Julie) Kingman; niece Lincoln (Frank) Owens;
and parents Kenneth and Virginia Kingman. Shane was preceded in death by his sister in-law
Jeanette Kingman.

In his free time, you would often find Shane helping with weekend projects around not only his
home, but those of friends and family. He enjoyed playing pool, video games, watching movies,
and collecting dragons. Shane especially loved his toy poodle Willie, who was often found right
by his side wherever he went. Shane was an AVID Raiders Football fan, and he was not afraid
to show it, even if he was the only one cheering them on in a room full of Chiefs Fans.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday September 8, 2024, where family will receive
guests from 2:00pm-7:00pm at the Lake Shawnee Event Center, 3025 SE Croco Rd., Topeka,
KS 66605.

FEBRUARY 27, 1955 - AUGUST 23, 2024 

Jonathan Blaine Allen, 69, Valley Falls, died at home Friday, Aug. 23, 2024, following an extended illness.
 Blaine was born Feb. 27, 1955, in Leavenworth, the son of Richard (Dick) and Margaret Allen.
 He attended school in Dillon, South Carolina, and Valley Falls, spending his early years between Kansas, South Carolina, and Florida.
 Blaine welcomed son Zacery in 1999.
 He was a painter and over the years worked for High Rise Painting, Florida, and for various Topeka-area companies.
 Blaine enjoyed golfing, fishing, playing the mandolin and the guitar, and spending time with family and friends. He was quick with a joke and loved pulling pranks.
 Blaine leaves behind his son, Zac, of the Pittsburg area; a sister, Mary (Dean) Lederer, Valley Falls; a sister-in-law, Kristin Allen, Valley Falls; and many cousins, nieces, nephews, and   friends, who will miss his laughter and his fried chicken.
 He was preceded in death by his parents; and a brother, Timothy Allen.
 A celebration of Blaine’s life will be held from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, Sept. 6, at the Kendall Bank Community Hall, Valley Falls. All are welcome to attend. Cards of condolence or memorials   to Jefferson County Home Health and Hospice or the Jefferson County Humane Society may be mailed to 1902 Willow St., Valley Falls, KS 66088.

JUNE 03, 1971 - JULY 25, 2024

Steven Harold Fleck, Jr, 53, was born June 3rd, 1971 to Steven H Fleck, Sr and Rosemary A Fotheringham in Altoona, PA.

Steve passed away on Thursday, July 25, 2024 at Stormont Vail Hospital in Topeka, KS surrounded by his kids and his service dog Wolvie.

He graduated from North Mason High School class of ‘90 and went on to attend Olympic College.  He enjoyed all things outdoors including hiking, hunting, camping, backpacking, mountain biking and anything he could find to get him outside.  He played Rugby for Kitsap Peninsula Rugby Club in the mid 90’s. A love of motorcycles ran deep in his DNA. Steve became the VP of the BMF Memorial King of Hearts Run from 2004 to 2006 after the passing of his father from heart disease in 2003.  It was the morning of that final run in 2006 Steve had his first of a series of strokes. Even after having a stroke he went on that day to ride over 100 miles on a route around the Hood Canal Loop in the blistering July heat. Steve was a warrior. He worked in the telecommunications field for over 10 years and loved being a lineman. Steve loved all things Marvel and comics. He was fortunate enough to meet two of his childhood heroes Stan Lee and Lou Ferigno at the many Comic-Cons he loved to attend.  He passed his love of Marvel and Comics to many of his grandkids. He was a diehard Seahawks fan. He was a man with a generous heart and would help someone any way he could.  Steve was always available if you needed advice, a sounding board, and when needed he probably had ten new jokes at his disposal to tell you at any given time. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Steve is survived by his 3 children and 9 grandchildren: Taira and her son Shane, Courtney and her kids Elley, Evelynn and Lincoln, Dakota and his wife Tiffany and their kids Mason, Makenna, Myles, Dakota Jr & Guinevere. Stephanie and her kids Tyler and Alaina. Chosen family Larry and Nora Whatley and many more nieces, nephews, and friends.

He was preceeded in death by his parents and his brother Joshua James Fleck.

A memorial celebration in Washington to honor Steve’s legacy will occur at a later date.

In lieu of flowers please consider donations towards his memorial, or to the American Heart Association. Donations can be made at: https://gofund.me/6b3fc3b7

Thank you to the caring staff at Stormont Vail and Angels Above for all of their help through this extremely hard time.

JULY 20, 1961 - AUGUST 21, 2024

Steven Lynn Rodecap, known affectionately as Steve, passed away on August 21, 2024 in
Topeka, KS at the age of 63. Born in Topeka on July 20, 1961, Steve spent his entire life in
Meriden, the community that he loved.

Steve graduated from Jefferson West High School, where he first showcased his love for sports,
playing basketball and later channeled his passion into coaching his son's baseball and
basketball teams.

Steve left a lasting impression on those he met. He dedicated many years of service to UPS,
where his commitment and work ethic were well respected by his colleagues and customers.
Outside of work, Steve was passionate about the outdoors. He was an avid hunter particularly
of coyotes and enjoyed fishing. He also had a deep affection for raising coyote hounds, and for
his beloved Bella, who was a constant companion. His role as a grandpa to his two
granddaughters was a source of immense joy and pride.

He was preceded in death by his parents, George and Mary Rodecap, and his brother, Gary
Rodecap. He is survived by his sons, Chase Rodecap (Alyssa) and Dylan Rodecap (Brooklynn);
his sister, Nancy Brown (Craig); his brother, Greg Rodecap (Daytha); his adored
granddaughters, Josey, and Avery Rodecap; numerous nieces, nephews, and great nieces and
nephews.

A celebration of Steve's life will be held at the Silo Wedding and Event Center (6787 Anderson
Rd. Meriden, KS 66512, Saturday, August 31 st from Noon- 5:00) providing an opportunity for
friends and family to gather and honor his memory. Steve's legacy will live on through the many
lives he touched and the fond memories shared by all who knew him.

Ted E. Dalton
June 7, 1947 – July 24, 2024

Ted E. Dalton, 77, of Topeka, Kansas, passed away peacefully on July 24, 2024, at
Stormont-Vail Hospital.

He was born to Glen and Ruby Dalton in Wichita, Kansas, June 7, 1947.

Ted spent most of his career in the roofing / construction business, recently with AWRS LLC /
Dalton Roofing. He was a diligent worker, had a big heart and would not hesitate to help others.
He loved doing anything that involved his family and had a passion for old cars and watching
MMA fights.

Ted is survived by his girlfriend, Kathy Joyce; two children Cassie (Brian) Shimp;
Matt (Cindy) Sump; his four grandchildren Jordan, Kendra, Brennen, and Amarya; and one
great grandson, Krew; Cousin/Brother Gary (Sharon) McCollar; Cousin/Brother Jammie Litty.

He was preceded in death by his mother, father and exceptionally close Aunt, Olive Litty. His
kindness and warmth will be missed by all who knew him.

Celebration of life in honor of Ted will be held later.