Elizabeth Ann Bantz's Obituary
Elizabeth Ann Bantz, 89, of Howard, passed away on Thursday, June 18, 2026, at the Eureka Nursing Center. Elizabeth was born on March 14,1937, at Emporia, KS., the daughter of Paul Arnold and Cecile Caroline (Shadley) Lynam.
On July 18, 1964, Elizabeth married Rex Albert Bantz. Elizabeth and Rex were married for 44 years until his passing on April 13, 2008. Elizabeth was a homemaker until both girls were in school. She then worked for Elk County Rural Water District No. 47, Tom & Sue’s grocery, Elk County Clerk’s Office, then retiring from the Elk County Extension Office after 20 plus years. She volunteered at the Howard City Library and served on the Library Board.
Elizabeth loved to read and enjoyed computer games and puzzles. She was strong in her faith and was a member of the Howard United Methodist Church and a former member of the Howard Mother’s Club, Union Center Homemakers, UMC Lamplighters, Country Squares Square Dance Club and PEO.
Elizabeth loved her family and her cat, Scooter, wo accompanied her to assisted living and later the Eureka Nursing Center. She will be greatly missed.
Survivors include:
Two Daughters:
Paula McAlister of Howard, KS
Reann French (Roger) of Tonganoxie, KS
Four Grandchildren:
Scott McAlister (Kristy) of Gutherie, OK., Abbie Jo McAlister of Howard, KS., Garrett French of Huntington Beach, CA., and Nicholas French of Parkville, MO.
Great Grandchildren: Ellison Jo and Klaira Elizabeth McAlister
Sister-in-Law: Janey Criger of Humboldt, KS
Nieces and Nephews: Mike Criger, Mark (Monica) Criger and Donna Ellsworth
Elizabeth was preceded in death by her parents, husband Rex, stepmother Martha Lynam, brother-in-law Don Criger and nephews Marty Criger and Chris Ellsworth.
Graveside services will be held on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, at 10:30 am at Grace Lawn Cemetery in Howard. Memorials have been suggested to the Eureka Nursing Home Activity Fund and may be left with or mailed to the funeral home. Services are under the direction of Countryside Funeral Home 206 E. Washington, P.O. Box 1233, Howard, KS 67349
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