Frederick R. Besel: 1945 – 2024
Frederick R. Besel, 79, of Cheyenne, Wyoming passed away on September 19, 2024, at Cheyenne Regional Medical Center. Frederick was born in Roswell, New Mexico. Frederick was a devoted and loving husband to his wife, Cheryl, for 37 years. He was a kind and gentle man who loved life and embraced every moment with joy and happiness.
He accomplished many things in his life and loved reading books and listening to classical and Christian music. His passion for writing led to the publication of a book he wrote in 2010. He loved telling jokes of which he had many. His love for God and his Christian beliefs became a big part of his life and he strived to follow Jesus Christ in every area of his life.
He is survived by his wife, Cheryl; sons: James, Ronald, Benjamin and David; sister, Connie Sauer; brother-in-law, David Sauer; brother, Ronald Besel; sister-in-law, Priscilla Besel; many grandchildren; nieces; nephews; and great-grandchildren.
He will be missed by all those who knew and loved him. Cremation has taken place, and no services are scheduled at this time. In lieu of flowers the family requests gift cards or financial help for his wife, Cheryl.
Tonie Lynn Flores: 1943 – 2024
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Tonie Lynn Flores, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, brother, son, who departed this world peacefully on September 22, 2024, in the comforting embrace of his family. Born on February 24, 1943, in Meridian, Mississippi, Tonie’s life was marked by unwavering strength, unfathomable love, and an innate commitment to the betterment of his beloved family.
Tonie was more than a hard-working business owner; he was a pillar of tenacity and dedication. His passion for craftsmanship flourished in the realms of reupholstering furniture, automobiles, and, notably, aircraft upholstery. After years of establishing a successful business, Tonie and his devoted wife, Lurleene Flores, made the significant decision to relocate to Cheyenne, Wyoming, where they continued their enterprise. It was not merely his professional accomplishments that defined him, but his unyielding spirit and the warmth he exuded in all aspects of life.
In a move that showcased his versatility, Tonie transitioned from the world of upholstery to healthcare, attaining his certification as a nursing assistant. At Davis Hospice, he devoted himself to caring for patients navigating their end-of-life journeys. The compassion he shared earned him many accolades; most memorably, his patients affectionately dubbed him “their cowboy angel.” This title was a testament to the kindness he effortlessly extended, marking him as both caregiver and confidant, a gentle light in their darkest hours.
Tonie’s personality radiated warmth, nurturing, and unflagging support, especially towards his family. He and Lurleene’s marriage spanned an admirable 56 years, characterized by a profound love that many would aspire to emulate. He adored his children—Gregory, EvaLyn, and Michael—with an intensity that knows no bounds, guiding and uplifting them through life’s myriad challenges. His heart swelled with pride at the achievements of his family, most especially the grandchildren and great-grandchildren who filled his life with joy. The echoes of laughter during family outings or shared meals, such as his renowned green chili over homemade burritos, remain vivid reminders of his loving presence.
Beyond his professional and familial commitments, Tonie engaged in various hobbies that brought him joy. He enjoyed crafting walking sticks, painting with watercolors, and collecting antiques—each pursuit reflecting his creative spirit and appreciation for life’s beauty. His military service in the Army National Reserves further exemplified his dedication to serving others, an ethos he carried into every facet of his existence.
Tonie is survived by his devoted wife, Lurleene Flores; his son, Gregory Flores; his daughter-in-law, Tricia Flores; his daughter, EvaLyn Flores; his son, Michael Flores; his daughter-in-law, Markie Flores; along with his cherished grandchildren: Tyler, Ashley, Kenneth, Cassie, Patrick, Rachel, Evan, Nicole, Matthew, and Lacey Klassy Watson, Colette Daugherty, Cody Smiley and Christopher Flores. He also leaves behind his beloved great-grandchildren: Lily, MiKenzie, Blake, Kambryn, Layla, Hendrix, Beau, Ember, Aethen, Chloe, and Eva Jean James Watson. He is additionally remembered by his brother, Jerry Flores; his sister-in-law, Debbie Flores; his sister, Brenda Flores; and several nieces and nephews.
Though he is preceded in death by his father, Solomon Flores; and mother, Leota Flores, the legacy Tonie leaves behind is one of love, strength, and unyielding support. In the lives he touched, Tonie will forever be revered as a shining example of what it means to love deeply and selflessly. As we mourn his passing, let us remember the myriad ways he enriched our lives, forever holding close the cherished memories of an extraordinary man who devoted himself to his family and friends.
Deborah Ann Galloway: 1952 – 2024
Deborah A. “Deb” Galloway, 72, died Monday at Davis Hospice Center in Cheyenne.
She was born March 31, 1952, in Cheyenne to Floyd and Sylvia Thompson.
Deb was raised in Novato, Calif. but returned to Cheyenne for her senior year of high school, graduating in 1970 from Cheyenne’s Central High.
In 1972, Deb enlisted in the U.S. Navy and spent eight years as a naval journalist. In 1973, she was sent to Kagnew Station in Asmara, Ethiopia, where she met and married Phil Galloway. They additionally lived in San Diego, Cuba, Spain, Virginia and Alaska before returning to Cheyenne in 1990 as Phil was retiring.
Deb left the Navy in 1981 to be at home with her children. During that time, she completed a bachelor’s degree in business with a minor in computer information systems.
In the 1990s, Deb worked for the State of Wyoming and then went to work for the Bureau of Land Management in Cheyenne, retiring in 2012 as an information technology manager.
Deb was preceded in death by her parents; sister, Gayle and her husband, Will Stell; and her sister, Leanne Heifner.
She is survived by her husband; daughters, Leslie (James) Riley and Kristine Galloway; grandchildren: Kira (Bailey) Myers and Randy Riley, and Leah and Logan Jackson; brother-in-law, Dennis Heifner; and many nieces and nephews.
Interment will take place at 11 a.m. Wednesday at the Cheyenne National Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Davis Hospice Center.
Matthew Roy Greenlee: 1976 – 2024
Today, we wish Matthew Roy Greenlee farewell. Quick-witted, with an ability to make the little moments in life feel incredibly special. Above all else, Matthew loved his kids, Caleb and Eli Greenlee, more than life itself. Born July 6, 1976, Matthew was charming everyone from day one to day 17,607. Matthew had an infectious laugh that brought people from strangers to friends in a moment’s notice.
Matthew was a man of character who wasn’t afraid to stick by his roots. He wasn’t afraid to speak passionately about what he believed in and was always standing up for what he found right. Matthew really spoke to people who felt disaffected and had a knack for helping them out.
Of course, this came through best in his career, where he served as a teacher, able to bring the world’s new perspectives and knowledge to minds who struggled with life’s hardest tasks, surely bringing light to many children who had struggling home lives and needed second chances. He did this by utilizing his ability to break through tense atmospheres.
Besides loving and teaching children he was a kid at heart, he enjoyed comic books and all the Marvel movies. He passed this love onto his children and enjoyed telling those he loved about his current read or movie.
Matthew was faced with a new age of technology, which didn’t stop him. He adapted not only in his work environment, making lessons for kids a breeze, but also at home, where he tirelessly pursued knowledge to play games with his kids and spend time with them.
Matthew left this world too soon on Friday, September 20, 2024, leaving his light behind to shine upon his children, Caleb and Eli Greenlee; longtime girlfriend, Megan Brust; parents, Roger and Frances Greenlee; sister, Marilyn Burden and husband, Paul; and brother, Michael Greenlee; five bonus children: Jeremiah, Shawn, Theodore, Zeb, and Eloise, all of whom loved him dearly through thick and thin.
A memorial has been established for St. Jude Children’s Hospital, in the care of Robson Funeral Home, 620 N. Main Street, Garden City, Kansas.
A celebration of life service will be held on Thursday, September 26, 2024, at 2 p.m. at First Baptist Church of Holcomb with Pastor Jon Sanders presiding. Burial will be held at a later date at his childhood home state of Wyoming.
Robson Funeral Home of Garden City is overseeing the arrangements.
Verna Rae Scott: 1945 – 2024
Verna Rae Scott (Kronberger), 79, of Cheyenne, passed September 24, 2024 at Cheyenne Regional Medical Center surrounded by her loving family. She was born May 28, 1945, in Bismarck, North Dakota to Anton and Margaret (Smith) Kronberger. Verna attended grade schools in Dickinson, North Dakota, Rawlins, Wyoming, and Denver, Colorado before graduating from East High School Cheyenne, Wyoming in 1963. She worked various jobs including working in Clarence Swainson’s Law office, owning her own clothing store and working for the State of Wyoming before retiring.
She loved tending her beautiful yard and garden lush with flowers, fruits and vegetables. Woodworking was her passion as she spent many hours in her shop creating masterpieces for her family and friends.
She was preceded in death by her father, Anton Kronberger; mother, Margaret Kronberger; brother-in-law, Mike Miller; son, Charlie Swainson (Nadine); and grandson, Josh Hegel.
She is survived by husband, Tom Scott; and sons: Ron Swainson (Kelly), Jeff Swainson (Jodi), Tommy Scott (Robin); sisters: Merilou Miller, Joyce Schaffer (Gordon), Linda Galik (Bob), Carol Day (Robin); and brother, Gale Kronberger (Mary); grandchildren: Kyle Aragon, Adrienne Black (Brett), Kara Black, Brittany Scott (Ryan), Zach Swainson, CJ Swainson (Tamara), Steven Swainson (Janel), Brandon Dominy (Paige), Jamie Gray (Morgan), Brandi Scott (Nathan), Ty Swainson (Jenna), Darien Dominy, Tommy Swainson, Michelle Swainson; great-grandchildren: Maine Gray, Rhodes Dominy, Myles Dominy, Emory Scott-Almli, TJ Swainson, and Josie Swainson; as well as numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.
With respect to Verna’s wishes, no services will currently be held.
Robert Royal Thompson: 1981 – 2024
Robert Royal Thompson, 43, of Casper, Wyoming, passed away on Wednesday, September 25, 2024. Born in Lebanon, Oregon, in 1981, Robert brought joy and kindness to all who knew him.
He is survived by his beloved daughter, Kadence Thompson; his fiancée, Sarah Blanton; his parents, Imagean and Dick Thompson; his sisters, Sheila Thornton and Mary Schenk; his brothers-in-law, Norman Schenk and Michael Thornton; his nieces, Hope Schenk and Rhianna Thornton; and his nephew, Taylor Thornton. Robert was also dearly loved by his three dogs, Buddha, Sassy, and Coco, who will miss him deeply. He had a special bond with them, teaching them tricks that delighted everyone around.
Robert worked as a heavy equipment operator, most recently at J and B Manufacturing, and previously at Brutill Construction, where he was well-loved by his colleagues. Known for his generous spirit, Robert was always ready to lend a hand, whether mowing neighbors’ lawns or assisting with other tasks. His mischievous sense of humor and a heart of gold made him unforgettable, and he will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
In his free time, Robert enjoyed trick and stunt kite flying, restoring old tractors, and participating in tractor pulls. He especially loved racing at the Green Acre Corn Maze. His passion for the outdoors and his talent for bringing old equipment back to life were a reflection of his creativity and love of hard work.
A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, October 2, 2024, at 1 p.m. at Newcomer’s Funeral Home, located at 710 East 2nd Street in Casper, Wyoming. The service will also be live-streamed on the funeral home’s website at newcomercasper.com.
The family invites you to share a memory of Robert or leave a message of condolence on the funeral home’s website. In lieu of flowers, contributions to help cover funeral expenses would be greatly appreciated.
Robert Glenn Weaver Jr.: 1948 – 2024
Robert Glenn Weaver, Jr., 76, passed away in Cheyenne on September 21, 2024. He was born on June 24, 1948, in Knoxville, Tennessee to Robert, Sr. and Gladys Larsen Weaver. He was the oldest of three children.
Robert served more than 16 years in the US Navy serving as a Naval Intelligence officer. After leaving the navy, Robert started a second career as a sheriff’s deputy. He had an eye for recognizing rare goods and became involved with auctions and the thrift store business. Robert was an avid music lover and was a member of the Lutheran faith.
Robert is survived by his sister, Sue Kunsman; brother, Jim (Loretta) Waller; and stepdaughters, Amy Reyes and Tammy Brown; ex-fiancé, Malinda Rasmuson.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Interment with military honors will be held on Tuesday, October 1, 2024 at 11 a.m. at Cheyenne National Cemetery.
