Ilse N. Bates
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Ilse N. Bates of Salina, KS, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great-grandmother, who departed this world on July 12, 2025, at the age of 95. Her remarkable journey began on September 1, 1929, in the charming town of Idar-Oberstein, Germany, where she was born to Friedrich Neumann and Martha Dreher.
In her free time, Ilse found joy and fulfillment in a variety of hobbies. She was an avid reader, often lost in the pages of a good book. She enjoyed exercising, always striving to stay active and vibrant. Ilse had a fondness for watching scary movies, playing cards, and creating countless cherished memories with family and friends. Her love for colorful and artistic nails reflected her vibrant personality.
Ilse was not only known for her hobbies but also for her love of jewelry. She had an eye for beautiful pieces and would often adorn herself with sparkling accessories that reflected her bright spirit. Ilse will be deeply missed, but her legacy of love, wisdom, and resilience will forever remain in the hearts of her family and friends.
She is survived by her daughter, Gabriele Rogan; granddaughter Michelle Rogan; grandson Donald Rogan III; great-grandchildren Ti’Ara Erving, Andrew Knidht, Ti’Andre Erving, Carniecia Robertson, Denzel Rogan, and Pierre Fleming; and her great great grandson Preston Fleming.
Per her wishes, no services will be held.
Le Roy Gene "Gene" Hindman
After a courageous four-month battle following a medical procedure, Le Roy Gene “Gene” Hindman passed peacefully on July 12, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family. Though our hearts are heavy, we celebrate a life filled with kindness, humor, and a spirit that left an indelible mark on everyone who had the pleasure to know him. Gene was a gentle soul with a fierce spirit – the kind of man who could light up a room with a single smile or a well-timed “Hey, buddy!” He believed in taking life slow, enjoying each moment, and leaving people better than he found them.
Born May 17, 1942, Gene was the cherished son of James Ervin “Erv” Hindman and Mildred Johnson, and later stepson to Lucille.
He is survived by his devoted wife and best friend, Virginia Hindman (Morris), whose hand he held through life’s every high and low. Their love—rooted in patience, laughter, and the phrase “Always and forever”—was the kind you read about in books.
Gene is also survived by his brothers, Gary Hindman (wife Carol, d. 2015), Jamie Hunter (Leann); nephews Michael Hindman (RaShelle), Shane Hunter (Deanna); and a multitude of great nieces, nephews, and cousins; children, Wayne Barham (Reta), Tonya Johnson (Chris), and Sonya Burgess; grandchildren, each of whom held a special place in his heart: Cevon Johnson, Isaiah Johnson, Angelica Hinklin, Allen Barham (Jamie), Alisa Cole (Chuck), Angelina Burgess, Daenara Burgess (Nima), Tonya Burgess, Rachel Burgess (Chris), Christopher Burgess, Jessica Sumahit (Mike), and Amber Hamilton (Gerald); and great-grandchildren, who brought him endless joy: Alyssa Barham, Detrique Barham, Jasper Barham, Wyatt Cole, Olivia Cole, Klohe Leonard, Anthony Leonard, Maxwell Burgess, Greyson Burgess-Tatad, Brycen Sumahit, Bella Sumahit, Biship Klinger, Rayne Janes, Nahani White, Omaria White, Phynlee White, and Qekin White.
He was preceded in death by his parents, stepmother, beloved sister Dee Palmer; and niece, Shannon Lopatowski.
Gene loved spending time with extended family in Missouri with his brothers and sister-in-laws, and with his nieces and nephews in Tennessee, Arkansas, and Colorado. Family meant everything to him. Whether camping, fishing, playing cards, or manning the grill with his son-in-law Chris Johnson, Gene brought light and laughter to every room. He especially loved the quiet days spent in his Man Cave—one of many heartfelt projects he and Chris tackled together.
A proud veteran, Gene served three years in the National Guard, held an honorary badge from the Sheriff’s Department, where he once served, and was a longtime member of the Shriner’s and the Salina Elk’s Club. He spent decades working as a car salesman, and continued doing what he loved until the age of 82. His coworkers remember him as dependable, generous, and always up for a chat and a chuckle.
Gene had a pocketful of sayings for every occasion. He reminded us, “If you can fix it, fix it. If you can’t, don’t worry about it.” He greeted life with a smile, entered every room with a friendly “What y’all doing?” and taught his grandchildren to “slow down and enjoy”—not just sandwiches, but life itself.
His passing leaves a deep void, especially for Virginia, who now carries not only the weight of loss but the financial burden of laying her husband to rest. If you feel led to offer support, donations can be made directly to Virginia, or to Tonya via Cash App at $tjhnsn32.
The family thanks you for your love, prayers, and presence during this time of sorrow and remembrance. Gene lived a life well-lived—a life full of warmth, humor, and deep love—and we are all better for having shared it with him.
So, here’s to Gene: May we honor him by slowing down, laughing often, and remembering that sometimes, the simplest moments are the ones that matter most. -- “Always and forever.”
Family will receive friends on Friday, July 18, from 12:30 PM to 2:00 PM with a funeral service following at 2:00 PM at 500 S. Ohio St..
