Josephine Kieffer

Josephine Elizabeth Martin Kieffer, 97, of Chapman, passed away Thursday, July 16, 2009 at Chapman Valley Manor. Her gentle spirit prevailed through a long illness which had halted a very active and productive life. Josephine was born March 19, 1912 near Broughton, KS in Clay County, to Ladislas and Ellen (Nellie) Martin. She graduated from Clay Center High School in 1930. She then studied nursing at the St. Joseph School of Nursing in Concordia, graduating in 1933. A long career in nursing began, taking her as far west as Colby, KS, and east to Leavenworth. She returned to her family home in 1950 to devote herself to the care of father whose health was failing. After caring for her father, she resumed her nursing career and in 1960 she married Francis Kieffer, a kindly dairy man and farmer to whom she was a cheerful companion and helpful wife. Upon retirement from the farm, Francis and Josephine moved to Clifton, KS and enjoyed a busy life with travel and volunteer activities with the Disabled American Veteran’s. She was a charter member of the DAV Auxiliary, Clay County, Unit 37. In Clifton she was an active member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church. Later in their retirement Francis and Josephine moved to McCall Manor in Salina, KS. In Salina, Josephine was a member of the St. Mary’s Queen of the Universe Catholic Church. She also was a member of the Ladies of Columbus and St. Mary’s Guild. Francis preceded her in death, passing away on March 11, 1993. Also preceding her in death were her parents, her two brothers, Bernard and Wilbur Martin, and a sister Frances. Josephine is survived by her sister Maxine Jones of Herington, KS and nieces and nephews. Respect calls will be held from 2-4 PM Sunday, July 19, 2009 with the Rosary recited at 4 PM at Turner’s Funeral Home in Clifton. Funeral Mass will be held at 10 AM Monday, July 20, 2009 at the St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Clifton. Memorials may be made to the St. Mary’s Grade School in Salina or to the St. Mary Cemetery in Clifton.