Herbert Homrighausen

H.G. "Bert" Homrighausen passed away May 17, 2008 at the Olathe Medical Center. He was born February 17, 1919, the youngest of four sons to George and Lena Mennenoeh Homrighausen at the family farm near Paola, Kansas. He attended Davenport Grade School and the Aviation Institute in Kansas City, Missouri. In 1941 he and his lifelong friend, Leland Trickett traveled to California to find work. He was foreman in the sheet metal department at Utility Fan Corporation, a subcontractor for Lockheed in California in 1942 when he was called to service during World War II. He served in the 62nd A.I.B. of the 14th Armored Division. On July 18, 1943 he was united in marriage to Wilma B. Smith in the Methodist Church in Elizabethtown, Kentucky, near Ft. Knox where he was stationed. To this union two children were born, Rita and Dean. In 1944, Bert was sent overseas where he served in the European Theater of Operations. He received several medals including the Combat Infantry"s Badge and two Bronze Stars. He returned home after the war, having served almost three years for his country. After his return he and his family settled on the Smith family farm in the New Lancaster community where he continued to farm throughout the remainder of his life. Through the years, Bert continued to be active in the community, especially the New Lancaster United Methodist Church where he served as superintendent for many years. He felt strongly about honoring military veterans which resulted in the display of the Avenue of Flags at the New Lancaster Cemetery on special occasions. He held many offices through the years in the New Lancaster Grange and served on the Miami County Agricultural Stabilization Conservation committee for many years. Those preceding him in death were his parents and his brothers, Frank, August and Walter. A sister died at birth. Survivors include his wife of nearly 65 years, Wilma, his daughter Rita and husband Michael and son Dean and wife Patty, nine grandchildren, Travis, Kit, Deana, Gina, Debbie, Brianna, Ryan, Josh and Justin, seven great grandchildren, many nieces and nephews, relatives and friends. Services will be Wednesday May 21st, at 10:30 AM at the New Lancaster United Methodist Church, visitation will be Tuesday May 20th from 4 to 6:00 PM at the Penwell-Gabel Paola Chapel, Burial in the New Lancaster Cemetery. Memorials may be be made to the Church or a charity of the donors choice. New Lancaster United Methodist Church Service: Wednesday, May 21, 2008 10:30 AM Visitation: Tuesday, May 20, 2008 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM