Ellen J. Andersen 89, of Salina, passed away Wednesday, June 29, 2016, at Salina Presbyterian Manor. Ms. Andersen was born in Columbia, Missouri, the daughter of the late Frank and Gertie (Griggs) Johnson.
Ellen began working at St. John’s Hospital in the medical records department and taught herself to become a licensed social worker. She continued her career for over 40 years and retired in 2004, from Salina Regional Health Center. Ellen was very active in Eastern Star, going through the ranks to become Worthy Matron, including many state representative positions. She enjoyed participating in auctions, which led to her love of collecting antique furniture and glassware, refinishing furniture, and restoring older homes. She also enjoyed working in her yard, jogging and traveling.

In addition to her parents, Ellen was preceded in death by her sisters, Eula, Ruby, Pat and Dorothy; brothers, Leonard and John; and husband, John E. Andersen.

She is survived by her daughter, Deborah; son, John (Supin); and sister, Margaret.

Cremation was chosen and no services are planned at this time. In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of remembrance may wish to consider memorial contributions to: KU Endowment, to benefit the Ellen J. Andersen Scholarship, or Sunflower Adult Day Services, and may be left in care of Ryan Mortuary, 137 N. Eighth St., Salina 67401. For more information or to leave an online condolence, please visit www.ryanmortuary .com.

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Cheryl Blanken, 78 died July 2, 2016 in Riley, KS. She was born on July 2, 1938 in Mankato, KS, the daughter of Ted and Esther (McCurdy) Hodges. Cheryl was raised in the Mankato community and graduated from Mankato High School in 1956. She married Ben Blanken on February 13, 1960. They made their home and raised their family in Clay Center. Cheryl worked as a nursing home administrator from 1979 until her retirement. Ben preceded her in death on September 24, 2006. She was a member of St. Paul Lutheran Church and B.P.O.E., both of Clay Center. Cheryl was also preceded in death by a son, David; her parents, 1 brothers and 1 sister.

Survivors:

Daughter: Denise and husband Mitch McMahan, Clay Center, KS

Daughter: Sheila and husband Gail Fisher, Wichita, KS

Son: Robert Blanken, Plano, TX

Sister: Bonnie Hamilton, Wichita, KS

Sister: Shirley McMillan, Payette, ID

Brother: Dennis Hodges, Kansas City, MO

6 Grandchildren and 10 Great-Grandchildren

Memorial Services will be held on Wednesday, July 6, 2016 at 10:30 AM at the St. Paul Lutheran Church in Clay Center KS

Officiating the service will be Pastor Paul Tessaro

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, July 5, 2016 from 3-8 PM at Neill-Schwensen-Rook Funeral Home

Memorials: CCARE or St Paul Lutheran Church c/o the funeral home