Jason Edward Chwalek: 1971 – 2025
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Jason Edward Chwalek on March 3, 2025, in Carpenter, Wyoming. Born on September 19, 1971, in Hawthorne, California, Jason was a remarkable individual whose life touched many, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him.
A proud patriot, Jason enlisted in the Army after graduating from Palm Dale High School in 1989, serving his country with honor for four years. His commitment to service shaped his strong work ethic, which he carried into his civilian life. Jason devoted himself to the skilled trade of handyman work, showcasing his proficiency as an electrician. He approached each project with dedication, professionalism, and a smile.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Jason was deeply devoted to his family. He cherished his roles as a son, brother, father, and grandfather. Surrounded by the love of his parents, Edward and Joan, Jason’s final moments were filled with comfort and warmth. He leaves behind his beloved daughter, Tayler; and precious granddaughters, Raylinn and Ali, who will forever remember their father and grandfather not just for his craftsmanship, but for his unwavering love and support.
In addition to his family, Jason had a circle of friends who were treated like family. He was known for his generous spirit and willingness to lend a helping hand. Always ready with a listening ear or a kind word, he made friends wherever he went. His love for the outdoors was evident in his passions for fishing and camping, while his backyard BBQ gatherings were the reason to bring people together amidst the sounds of laughter and music.
Jason’s legacy is one of kindness, strength, and deep love for his family and friends. He is preceded in death by his beloved brother, Mike, whose memory was cherished and will always remain in their hearts. As we reflect on Jason’s life, we are reminded of his vibrant spirit and the love he spread to all.
Although he may no longer walk among us, Jason’s light will continue to shine in the stories we share, the memories we hold, and the love that binds us together. He will be profoundly missed but never forgotten. Jason will always be known as a son, brother, patriot, father, grandfather, and friend.
Anne Josephine Kinzer: 1920 – 2025
At age 104 Anne (Skolasky) Kinzer passed away March 3, 2025 at Davis Hospice Center, Cheyenne, Wyoming. She was in good health until the last ten days of her life. She had attended daily exercise classes, read, and crocheted afghans. Her afghans are treasured remembrances.
Anne (Skolasky) Kinzer, the youngest of 12 children of Tony and Martha Skolasky, was born October 11, 1920 on the family homestead near Dog Ear Lake, Tripp County, South Dakota. Her parents were among the first homesteaders who established Tripp County. Anne graduated from Colome High School in 1939 and completed a year of college at Notre Dame College, Mitchell, South Dakota, in 1940. Anne taught 13 years in southern Tripp County one-room schools before and after marriage. She fondly remembered all her students.
November 1942 Anne married Van Kinzer. They farmed for 40 years in Rames Township south of Colome. In 1981, Van and Anne retired to Gregory, South Dakota, and lived there until 2004. In Gregory they enjoyed grandparenting the neighborhood children. Anne had been a Regent of the Catholic Daughters in Gregory. They enjoyed 18 winters in Arizona where Anne made many friends and warm memories.
Van Kinzer died in 2007 in Williston, North Dakota. They had been married 65 years. Anne returned to Gregory, South Dakota, until her move to Cheyenne, Wyoming, in 2009. In 2017 she moved into Sierra Hills Assisted Living, Cheyenne, and late February 2025 she moved into Davis Hospice Center, Cheyenne.
Anne is survived by her two children, Harold (Carol) and Nila McCann (Joe); five grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild. One great-grandchild preceded her in death.
The family will hold a private funeral in Cheyenne, Wyoming. A celebration of life and internment of cremains will be held in Gregory, South Dakota, during the summer on a date to be announced.
The family is grateful for the attentive, supportive care provided by the staff at Sierra Hills Assisted Living and for the comforting care of the staff at Davis Hospice Center.
Kathryn Joan Macauley: 1941 – 2025
Kathryn Joan Macauley, affectionately known as Kathy, passed away peacefully on March 1, 2025, at the Life Care Center of Cheyenne. Born on September 6, 1941, in Lockport, New York, Kathy lived a life full of warmth and kindness that touched the hearts of everyone she encountered.
She had been a bookkeeper at Tom’s Garden Spot and the Wyoming Tree Farm, which went hand-in-hand with her love of plants; however, it was her family that truly brought her joy and fulfillment. Kathy cherished spending time with her loved ones, especially during the holidays when laughter and togetherness were abundant and bubble lights filled the tree. She had a remarkable way of making everyone feel welcome, ensuring that her home was a haven filled with love, connection and good food.
Kathy’s personality shone brightly through her many interests. A passionate gardener, she took great pride in her flower beds, nurturing each blossom with care and dedication. Bird watching was another beloved pastime, where she found peace in observing the beauty of nature.
Kathy’s legacy will continue to live on through her loving family. She is survived by her sister, Anne Smith, of Lockport, New York; her son, Marcel Oliger; her daughter, Kelly (Lucas) West; and her beloved grandchildren: Adena (Jon) Gilbert, Karissa (Alex) Toalson, Alanna and James West. Kathy was also a proud great-grandmother, missed dearly by Neveah, Mackenzie, and Ryland Leibouvitz as well as Liam and Aidan Toalson, all of Cheyenne. In addition to her immediate family, she leaves behind many nieces and nephews who adored her.
Kathy is reunited in spirit with her beloved husbands, Robert Macauley and Roland Oliger; her mother, Ella Conley; her father, Martin Conley; and her sisters, Jeanette Donato and Cecelia Conley; and her brothers, Richard and Lee Conley.
A Celebration of Life service will be held in her honor on March 15, 2025, from 10 to 11 a.m. at Schrader, Aragon and Jacoby Funeral Home in Cheyenne, Wyoming. This will be a moment for family and friends to gather and celebrate a wonderful life filled with love, laughter, and unyielding kindness.
Kathy will forever be remembered for her welcoming nature, her devotion to family, and the cherished memories she created with those she loved. Her gentle spirit will continue to shine in the hearts of all who knew her.
Laurie Jean Nelson: 1966 – 2025
Laurie J. Nelson, of Cheyenne, passed at Cheyenne Regional Medical Center surrounded by her loving family.
She was born on May 12, 1966, in Saint Louis, Missouri to Janice M. Hill and Fredrick C. Ruckman.
Laurie was fiercely loyal to her family and friends. She did her best to make others laugh and always had something fun to say. Laurie was a hard worker and enjoyed spending time with her clients at Magic City Enterprises, where she worked for 28 years. In her down time, she could be found playing with her three dogs.
She is survived by her sister, Pam; her longtime companion, Delwyn; her sons, Derik (Katie) and Cody; and daughter, Janice.
Laurie was preceded in death by her parents and her brothers, Douglas and Fred.
Services will be held for family and friends at a later date.
