Illene Hess, age 87, entered into rest on Thursday, March 28, 2024, at the Plaza West Healthcare and Rehab Center in Topeka, Kansas.   She was born on December 6, 1936, in Rice, Kansas to Glen Townsdin and Maxine Reed.   

She married Stan Hess from Courtland, Kansas. He preceded her in death November 6, 2004. 

Illene worked for various nursing homes in the local communities of Concordia, Jamestown and later in Topeka, Kansas.

She enjoyed traveling, being on the farm and most of all he loved spending time with her beloved family and friends.

Illene is survived by her two sons, James “Jim” Dooley (Lorna), Concordia, KS; Frank Horning, Mulberry, KS; a daughter, Janet Huhs, Topeka, KS; a brother, Robert Reed (Juanice), Chandler, OK; two sisters, Shirley Riek, Clay Center, KS; Patsy Jackson, Blue Rapids, KS; many grandchildren and great grandchildren, several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded by her husband, Stan Hess, her parents, Glen and Marguerite Townsdin, and Maxine and Bus Reed, two sons, Ted Lavoie, and Billy Urich, her four sisters, Carol Bisnette, Jeanette Townsdin, Sandra “Sandy” Miller, and Nancy Keating, and a brother, James Townsdin.

There will be no Visitation.

Illene’s wishes were to be cremated and a graveside service will be held 1:00 p.m. on Friday, April 5, 2024, at the Fairview Cemetery, rural Jamestown, Kansas, with Pastor Judy Hill officiating.

The family suggests memorials to American Legion Post # 76 Concordia, Kansas in care of Chaput-Buoy Funeral Home, PO Box 606, Concordia, KS 66901.  For online condolences please visit www.chaputbuoy.com.