Marcella Jean Ladner, 88, Topeka, passed away October 30, 2014 at Onaga Community Hospital after a short illness. Since 2012, she had resided at Vintage Park and then Medicalodges, both in Holton.

She was born December 1, 1925, in Onaga, the daughter of Allan C.B. and Bertha E. (Knipp) Meskimen. She graduated from Onaga High School in 1943 and Trinity Lutheran Nursing School of Kansas City in 1946. She worked at Stormont-Vail Hospital in Topeka for over 30 years, retiring as Director of Nursing. She was a member of St. David's Episcopal Church in Topeka.

Marcella’s greatest joy were her grandchildren. She enjoyed ceramics, crocheting and working in her beautiful flower gardens. Iris was her favorite flower and she grew many varieties which she loved sharing with everyone.

Marcella married Robert “Bob” W. Ladner on May 19, 1947, in Reno, Nevada. He preceded her in death on April 24, 2012. She is survived by three sons, Steve Ladner, Topeka, Robert Ladner and wife Lisa, Onaga, and Robin Ladner and wife Sherri, Holton; eight grandchildren; three step-grandchildren; and two step-great grandchildren.

Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, November 4, 2014 at Mount Hope Chapel. Burial will follow at Mount Hope Cemetery. The family will receive friends at the chapel one hour prior to the service.

Penwell-Gabel Mid-Town Chapel is assisting with arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials to St David's Episcopal Church, 3916 SW 17th, Topeka, KS 66604.

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