Florence M. Steely

Florence M. Steely, 95, of McPherson, Kansas passed away on March 28, 2022, at Hutchinson Regional Medical Center.

She was born July 15, 1926, at the family home near White City, Kansas, the daughter of Fred A. and Orlena (Kohls) Herpich.  Florence was a graduate of Woodbine High School, Woodbine, Kansas with the class of 1945.

Upon graduation, Florence went to work with Dr. Emig, an optometrist, as an optometrist assistant in Herington, Kansas.  It was during her employment with Dr. Emig that this young, handsome man came in for an appointment.  Glenn B. Steely was that young man who became her life partner.  Glenn and Florence were married on October 3, 1948, at St. Johns Lutheran Church, White City, Kansas.

Through the years of their married life, they lived in several states due to Glenn’s various business activities.  Florence was never without a job very long, even with the various moves.  She was very good at fitting and adjusting glasses and would work for numerous optometrists, finally retiring from this work at the age of 82.  She and Glenn enjoyed extensive travel on their own, with bus trips, and the highlight being able to travel to Russia and Finland.

During her later years, she spent much time oil painting, being self-taught by Bob Ross books, especially in nursing homes with residents observing.

Survivors include her loving and devoted companion and best friend, JD the cat, one brother, Fred L. Herpich, one sister, Elvera Wehmeier, numerous nieces and nephews.  She was preceded in death by her husband, her parents, and one nephew.

A funeral service will be held at 10:00 AM, Saturday, April 2, 2022, at Stockham Family Funeral Home with Pastor Jeremy Bower officiating.  A visitation/viewing will be held from 9:30 AM until service time on Saturday morning.  Burial will follow the service at McPherson Cemetery.

Memorial donations may be given to McPherson County Humane Society in care of Stockham Family Funeral Home, 205 North Chestnut, McPherson, KS 67460.