Kathy Jane Bridges: 1959 – 2023
Kathy J. Bridges, 63, of Casper, passed away peacefully in her home Friday, August 11, 2023.
She was born to the late Grant and Kathleen Addleman, on November 25, 1959, in Kimball, Nebraska. Her family moved to Casper, Wyoming when Kathy was 5 years old. Kathy attended Kelly Walsh High School. She married Daniel M. Bridges in 1989 and they lived together in Louisiana before relocating to Casper.
Kathy worked as a flagger for Rissler & McMurry Construction for many years before meeting her husband. She attended cosmetology school to become a nail technician in Louisiana. After returning to Casper, she continued to work as a nail technician for many years until the death of her husband in 2006. Kathy then worked in the cafeteria at Natrona County High School until her health no longer permitted it.
Kathy loved to laugh and prided herself on finding just the perfect funny birthday card for her family and friends. She was an avid reader of mystery novels. Kathy never lived without a dog or two or three. Most recently she enjoyed putting puzzles together with her great nieces and nephews and “junking” or thrift store shopping with friends and family.
Kathy is survived by her sister Connie (Gary) Ramich; nieces LaCosta (Anthony) Meyer, Jami (Anthony) Mendoza, and Georgia Myron. She is also survived by two great-nieces and five great-nephews. She is preceded in death by her husband Daniel M. Bridges and her parents Grant and Kathleen Addleman.
Cremation has taken place and a celebration of life will take place on September 17, 2023. If you would like information about the celebration of life please contact LaCost Meyer @ lmeyer81515@gmail.com for details.
Flowers and condolences can be sent to Newcomer Funeral Home in care of Connie Ramich.
Steven E. Aeilts: 1950 – 2023
Mr. Steven E. Aeilts, 72, of Casper, Wyoming passed away on Monday, August 14, 2023 at Central Wyoming Hospice in Casper.
Steven was born August 20, 1950 in Casper and spent most of his life there.
He was a graduate of the University of Wyoming. Known in the family as “the senior cadet” and was brother of Dick and David Aeilts who miss him dearly. Upon his retirement as a Lab Technician at the Casper WasteWater treatment plant, he enjoyed restoring his vintage GMC truck and amassing a good collection of tools.
His wife and love of his life Sandi passed away shortly before the Lord called him to join her.
Dr. Elbridge Lee Brubaker, MD: 1939 – 2023
Dr. Elbridge Lee Brubaker, MD, a dedicated physician, and beloved member of the Casper community, passed away on July 9, 2023, at the age of 84. He was born on January 14, 1939, in Casper, Wyoming, to Elbridge and Sara Brubaker from Glenrock, Wyoming.
After completing his education at the University of Wyoming and graduating in 1961, Dr. Brubaker pursued a medical degree at the University of Tennessee. He excelled in his studies and graduated from medical school in 1965, marking the beginning of his lifelong dream to be a physician.
In 1966, Dr. Brubaker joined the US Army. He took on the role of Chief Medical Officer in Montgomery, Alabama, where he performed physicals of perspective recruits entering the service until his honorable discharge in 1968.
Following his military service, Dr. Brubaker returned to Casper and opened a family medical practice on July 31, 1968. For over five decades, he served his patients with unwavering dedication and expertise. His commitment to providing compassionate care earned him the respect and gratitude of countless individuals and families throughout the community.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Dr. Brubaker led a fulfilling personal life. He had an adventurous spirit and enjoyed flying as well as pursuing outdoor activities such as hunting and fishing across Wyoming’s scenic landscapes. He attended First Baptist Church, First Christian Church, and Highland Park Community Church. He was a long time Lion’s Club member as well.
Dr. Brubaker was deeply devoted to his family and cherished spending time with them. He was preceded in death by his spouse of 50 years, Darlene LeMaster Brubaker, who passed away on October 13, 2011. He is survived by their three children, Thomas (Debbie), Kathyrne (Curtis) Grace, and Marcus (Fiona). Additionally, Dr. Brubaker leaves behind a legacy of love through his six grandsons. He was also a beloved brother to John (Fran) Brubaker, Harry (Linda) Brubaker, and Ann (Jon) Brubaker-Wilcox.
In lieu of flowers or gifts, the family kindly requests that donations be made to a charity close to your heart in honor of Dr. Elbridge Lee Brubaker’s legacy of compassion and service.
Patricia Ann Jensen: 1947 – 2023
Patricia Ann Jensen “Patty”, 75, passed away after a battle with cancer on Wednesday, August 9, 2023.
She was born to the late Mahlon and Eloise Johnson, December 5, 1947 in Britton, South Dakota. Patty graduated from Cody Wyoming High School in 1966 and successfully completed her Wyoming state boards in dental hygiene as a graduate of Rangely college in Rangely, Colorado with an associate of science degree in dental hygiene.
Patty later retired to pursue her passion as a stay at home mom, as being one of her kids we could not ask for a better mom to raise us. She loved being a mom and was great at it.
Patty is survived by her daughters Melony Brost & Tiffany Romero; son Jay Jensen; grandkids John Hoffman, Josh Hoffman, Krysta Shepperson, Chaos Shepperson, Acacia Pique & Jaelin Miller and many great grandkids.
John Frederick Miller: 1946 – 2023
John Frederick Miller, 77, of Casper, Wyoming passed away Monday, August 14, 2023 at Central Wyoming Hospice in Casper. John was born on June 19, 1946 to Frederick Miller and Barbara (Nickerson) Miller in Santa Fe, New Mexico.
John married to his beloved wife, Patricia Ann (Essary) Miller on August 29, 1965 and seal to her in the Zollikofen Switzerland Temple.
John had multiple accomplishments: he received the United States Army Honor graduate of Missile and Munitions school, he graduated from Casper College with an Associate of Applied Sciences in Electronics. John served as a Stake Missionary in Casper, Wyomimg and continues to be a teacher in the universal powers of our savior Jesus Christ and the movement to the four directions of life and eternal purpose.
John had multiple places he called home, including New Mexico, Huntsville, Alabama, as well as Hanau, Germany. However, John would say to Pat, “ Whenever we are together that is home”.
His activities include model railroader, reading, photography, being around animals, and a strong testimony of life.
John and Pat enjoyed many vacations, particularly train rides throughout different states.
John is survived by his beloved wife of 58 years, Patricia Miller; five children; six grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and one sister.
A memorial service with military honors for John will be held at 10:00 a.m., Monday, August 21, 2023 at Oregon Trail State Veteran’s Cemetery in Evansville, Wyoming.
Gary Politte: 1944 – 2023
Longtime Wyoming resident Gary Politte died on August 11 at his home in Casper. Born in Sullivan, Missouri on February 23, 1944, Gary was the second son of Clarence & Margaret (Lawrence) Politte. After years of moving around the country (but always returning to his family’s roots in Sullivan, Missouri), Gary joined the US Army at the age of 17 in 1961. After serving his active-duty years in Korea, he returned to Missouri in 1965. He was honorably discharged in 1967 after his US Army Reserve time had passed.
Gary married Vicki Lyn Taylor on April 23, 1966, in Union, Missouri. The couple went on to have three children: Chrysta, Allen, & Kelly. Gary followed his father, older brother, and several uncles as he joined the electrical lineman apprenticeship offered by the IBEW Local No. 2 based in St. Louis. Upon completion of his apprenticeship, he worked in several places in Missouri and Illinois. He went on to follow his older brother out west where work was plenty and built many highlines and substations in Wyoming, Montana, and Colorado. At that time, he was affiliated with IBEW Local No. 322 out of Casper. In his younger years, Gary loved to hunt, fish, camp, and ride snowmobiles across Wyoming.
Gary is survived by daughters Chrysta and Kelly of Casper; son Allen (Teresa) of Douglas; and four grandchildren: Cody and Shailey of Casper; Justin of Butte, Montana; and Connor of Mills. He is also survived by younger brother Michael Busse (Adrienne) of Robertson, Wyoming; and extended family members across the country.
He was preceded in death by his parents; wife; older brother, Larry; and younger sister, Mary Busse.
A visitation will be held from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. with a funeral service at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday. Aug. 19, 2023 at Bustard & Jacoby Funeral Home. Tim Adams will officiate.
This service will be livestreamed and may be viewed here: https://event.forgetmenotceremonies.com/ceremony?c=f8e9ce26-7fe6-4ae1-81fc-effee1e5e230
Stephen F. Sasser: 1948 – 2023
Stephen F. Sasser, 74, of Casper, Wyoming passed away Sunday, August 13, 2023.
Steve is survived by his wife, Kathy Sasser of Casper, Wyoming; his sons Luke Sasser, Colton Sasser (Holly Sasser), and David Moore; and his daughter Amanda Branon (Neal Branon), all of Casper, Wyoming. His sister Rhenora Sasser of St. Petersburg, Florida, and his 11 grandchildren: Gabby, Gibson, Cash, Crew, and Lincoln Sasser, Kase, Emery, Laney, and Dax Branon, Kolynns and Corbin Sasser.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Littleton Albert Sasser and Mary Wynell Woodall; his sisters, Barbara Pinkston and Nancy Rimmer; and his son Joa Sasser.
There will be a private service and celebration of life gathering for family and close friends. Please keep our family in your thoughts and prayers.
Karen Kaye Sutton: 1958 – 2023
Karen Kaye Sutton was a caring wife, mother, grandma, sister, and friend. Jesus received her with open arms on August 13, 2023. She was born on April 3, 1958 to Theodore Sparks and Sharon Lee Chevalier in Cody, Wyoming. Though her passing from this world was sudden, the memories she leaves are lasting. By nature, Karen was an exceptional caregiver. A gift she extended not only to her family, but to her local community; working throughout her life in multiple facets of healthcare. Her children, Chandra, Chester, Amanda and granddaughter Brittany want to share that their mother’s life exemplified kindness and generosity. She loved unconditionally and forgave easily. She was a shoulder to lean on, and a listening ear. Lastly Karen loved God. She was a believer and follower of Jesus. Her love and selfless service to others was evidence of his spirit living in her. We will miss her immensely.
Until we meet again…….What a heavenly reunion that will be! Karen was preceded in death by her mother Sharon; father Theodore; sister Tana Inman; and niece Deidra Rowe.
She is survived by her husband and best friend, Patrick Sutton; children: Chandra Hart, Chester Hart, and Amanda (Brad) Nimmo; stepchildren: Shiloh (Rob) Esterline, Tabithah (George) Crain, and Savannah Schadegg; grandchildren: Brittany(Matt) Jones; Sadina Hart; Toby Hart; Bodhi, Brice & Christian Nimmo; Asyiah, Mateah Esterline; Zohee, Josiah, Hilah Schadegg; Evan, Elyse, Elijah Crain; great-grandchildren: Kaydence, Paxton Hart; sisters: Cindy (Charlie) Bredthauer and Darrlea (Mel) Walker; brother Ted(Cindy) Sparks; and a number of nieces and nephews: Sam (Whitney) Owen, Shane (Jamie) Will, Thomas, Sarah, Misty (Dave) Paige, Trey, Amy, Zach, Alex (Sabrina) Apollo, Artemis, Ronin, Holly (John) Carmen, Heidi Quick (Mike) & Jessica, Heather Hindman (Tommy), Jordan Cowgar (Ashley), Ava, Amelia, Colton Beason, Jadie Cowgar & Chevelle, Greyson, & Finnleigh, Gage, Hunter, Cami, Titus, Tyler, Christopher Inman, Brandon Inman, and Amber Inman.
Service to be held at Bustard & Jacoby Funerals, Cremation, Monuments & Receptions. 600 CY Ave, Casper, WY 82601 Sunday, August 20 at 1:00 p.m. Officiants: John and Sherrie Lewis.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the nonprofit organization Girl Power 2 Cure in memory of avid supporter “Grandma Karen” in honor of granddaughter Mateah https://www.girlpower2cure.org/donate/Karen Kaye Sutton
Sidney Albert Wallingford: 1938 – 2023
Sidney Albert (Sid) Wallingford, 84, died on August 7, 2023, in Casper, Wyoming.
Sid was born October 2, 1938, in Los Angeles, California to Ellen Rosenheim. He was adopted by Claibourne and Ruth (Maddux) Wallingford and the new family went to live in Cody, Wyoming. They moved to Casper in 1947 where he would spend the rest of his life. He graduated from Natrona County High School in 1956. He and fellow classmate Ruth Eaton eloped and were married on July 23, 1956. Employed as a photographer with Ken’s Photoshop, he saw an opportunity to open his own business in photographic equipment repair in 1963. He operated Photo Electronics for 44 years before his retirement in 2007. As the only camera repair facility in the region, he repaired cameras from all over the US. He was a factory trained and authorized technician for both Nikon and Canon.. Sid loved a challenge and could fix nearly anything!
An accomplished musician, he played cello in the Casper Civic Symphony beginning in high school and attained the seat of principal cellist, a chair he held for almost 20 years. He loved the Civic Symphony until the decision was made to move from a civic symphony with local talent to a “professional” symphony with imported musicians. Casper Municipal Band offered Sid an additional musical outlet where he played euphonium (baritone tuba), for 50 years. He loved the outdoors and was an avid backpacker and cross country skier. Sid was an amazing photographer with an artful eye who won awards for his photography. He moved from darkroom chemicals to digital printing with expertise and grace always available to help enhance and print treasured photos. He was a novice gourmet chef who loved to introduce family and friends to great food. Sid did outstanding woodworking from large housing projects down to intricate music boxes. He was a gentle man who loved animals, especially his dogs.
Sid was often asked why he married at 17 and he always replied, “Because I wanted a family.” Sid is survived by his wife of 67 years, Ruth. Together, they enjoyed music, good food, the outdoors, jigsaw puzzles and each other…most days. Also surviving are his children, John Wallingford and wife Robin of Casper, and daughter Kelly Jennewein and husband Mike of Tempe, Arizona. His kids could always count on dad to listen, tell dad jokes, assist with any building project, and fix anything. He is survived by seven wonderful grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren whose photos always made him smile. He was preceded in death by his mother and adoptive parents.
At his request, no services are scheduled; but Sid would be pleased if you would raise a pint of beer and cheer what is right and beautiful in the world. As he was always partial to kids and animals, Sid would be honored to have memorial donations in his name to CASA of Natrona County or the Casper Humane Society.
Carl R. Werner: 1946 – 2023
Carl Randolph Werner, 76, of Casper, Wyoming passed away on August 11, 2023, in Casper.
Mr. Werner was born in Casper, Wyoming to Jack and Lois (Lundberg) Werner on September 30, 1946. Growing up on family ranches, he learned the value of hard, honest work. He had fond memories of fishing Sinks Canyon & often repeated memories of his perfect days that would include a creek to fish in the beautiful mountains of Wyoming. He graduated from Glenrock High School in 1964, went on to complete mechanic’s school and retired from a long career at Pacificorp Dave Johnston Plant.
In 1969 he married (52yrs) the love of his life, Kathy and together they raised three children, along with many other kids who were not their own, but they always knew they were there for them too. They always looked forward to their annual anniversary trips to Las Vegas or Reno. He was a much-cherished husband, father, grandfather, and father-in-law. He enjoyed any time spent with loved ones, was a natural artist who consistently improved upon his oil painting skills and could draw anything. He loved restoring/building/racing cars, visiting friends at the kitchen table and running the grill for family BBQ’s. He excelled at emptying wallets at family poker games during holiday gatherings and participating in bowling leagues. He also liked watching football, game shows & Gunsmoke. Later in life he was proud of his gardening skills growing beautiful zinnias and continued to spoil his entire family–especially his dogs.
He was a thoughtful, kind man that taught his children generosity, humility & cowboy ethics.
He is survived by two children, Bridget Kopas (Adam) of New Braunfels, Texas and Jason Werner of Salt Lake City, Utah; grandson, Kindle Werner (Maddison) of Converse, Texas; brother, Jon Werner (Jody) of Eden, Utah; and numerous nieces, and nephews. All will miss him dearly.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Kathy; his son, Zak; his parents; and sister, Jackie Oliver.
Through this enormous loss, his family is full of gratitude that he knew Jesus and the importance of God in his life.
Services will be at Bustard & Jacoby Funeral Chapel on Saturday, August 19, at 2:00 p.m. with a gathering and refreshments starting at 1:00 p.m. Interment will follow at Highland Park Cemetery.
