Lena Gardenhire Rhodeman

Lena Gardenhire Rhodeman, 97, passed away December 27th, 2017, in her home where she resided with her daughter for 23 years.

    Lena was formally from Wamego KS, and born in Alma KS on October 22nd , 1920. She was united in marriage to Merlin Rhodeman on July 5th, 1946, for 47 years. He preceded her in death on December 2nd, 1994.

    She was a homemaker and raised her ten children while her husband served in the military. She had a passion for sewing and making quilts. She had an extraordinary love for music. Her love for music was so great, she played on her piano and organ for 91 years.

    Survivors include four sons; Michael Rhodeman of Salina, Marvin Rhodeman of Manhattan, Gary Rhodeman (Elaine) of Topeka, Buddy Rhodeman (Joyce) of Kansas City MO. Four daughters; Lena Leonard (Billy) of Manhattan, Linda Chambers (Karvellas) of Des Moines IA, Vonzetta Rhodeman of Salina KS, Lora Haney of Raymore MO, Lena’s sister Ester Redmon of Topeka KS, and an uncle of Topeka KS. Lena had 38 grandchildren, 110 great grandchildren, and nine great-great grandchildren. Lena was preceded in death by her parents, brothers, sisters, two sons, Merlin R. and Melvin Rhodeman, three infant grandsons, Leslie B. Rhodeman, Jr., Melvin L. Rhodeman, Jr., and Maurice Collins; two granddaughters, Louise Brown and Amanda Bonner.  

    Funeral services for Mrs. Rhodeman will be held at 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, January 3, 2018 at the Stewart Funeral Home of Wamego. Burial will follow in Wamego City Cemetery. Lena will lie in-state beginning at 2:00 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home, with a visitation from 5:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Family and friends are invited for food and fellowship at Trinity Baptist Church following the grave side service. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations toward expenses are suggested to: Stewart Funeral Home, PO Box 48, Wamego KS 66547.