Obituary

Douglas R. "Doug" VanHorn, 77, died Saturday, Aug. 16, 2014, at Kansas Christian Home in Newton.

He was born Oct. 23, 1936, in Newton, to Merle and Ruth (Hall) VanHorn. He was raised by his grandparents, J.D. and Inez Hall and his uncle, Gene Hall. Doug was a graduate of Newton Schools and retired from Bunting Magnetics in Newton. On Jan. 31, 1959, he married Karen S. Hudspeth, and she survives of the home.

Doug had a love of all sports. He especially enjoyed baseball and followed the Kansas City Royals. When his health allowed, he enjoyed horseshoes and travelled with the local horseshoe team to tournaments. Throughout his life, Doug enjoyed the company of his pet dogs; he most recently has enjoyed the loyal companionship of his two dogs, Bear and Buddy. Of all of Doug's life activities his most cherished was that of loving husband, father and grandpa. He always looked forward to spending time with his loving family and many friends and keeping up with their activities.

Doug is survived by his wife, Karen of the home; son, Bob and his wife, Karen VanHorn of Peabody; daughters, Dela Jean and Larry Grochowsky of Olathe, Tammie Chavez of Newton, and Julie and Louie Rodriguez of Topeka; former son-in-law, Ramon Chavez of Newton; and dear family friend, Barbara Cassil of Newton. He is also survived by 12 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Lani Starkey; brother, Raymond VanHorn; and grandmother, Mabel VanHorn.

Funeral service will be at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 20, 2014, at Grace Community Church in Newton, with Pastors David Reimer and Steve Friesen presiding. Visitation will be 5 to 9 p.m. Tuesday evening at Petersen Funeral Home, with the family receiving friends from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Burial will be in Greenwood Cemetery, Newton. Memorials are suggested to Grace Community Church or Caring Hands Humane Society in care of Petersen Funeral Home.