Remembering
Photo: Courtney Masterson
Remembering Our Members
Paul Willis (1929 - 2021)
Paul Marcus Willis, Salina, former KNPS Board Member, was born in Cherryvale, Kansas. He was a graduate of Elk City High School, Independence Junior College, and Kansas State Teachers College at Pittsburg, Kansas. After discharge from service in the Army, he received a Master’s of Science degree from Kansas State University.
Mr. Willis taught Biology at Highland Park High School and Shawnee Heights High School for 32 years. He retired in 1989.
He was a member of Topeka Audubon Society, a charter member of the Kansas Wildflower Society (now KNPS), Shawnee and Saline County Master Gardeners, and participated in Senior Olympics, Silvertones Singing Group (Salina), and many other groups. He had also served on the USD 450 School Board.
Paul was a charter member of the Kansas Wildflower Society, and a long-time Board member who faithfully supported and served our organization.
Joan Manor (1946 - 2020)
Former board member, Joan Manor, was born on in Udall, Kansas. She attended schools in Udall and graduated from Udall High School. Joan then attended college and ultimately earned her Doctorate Degree in education.
She was an English and Speech teacher, teaching in schools in New Mexico and Kansas. She was the Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum at the Goddard School District for 25 years.
Joan was an active member of the Kansas Native Plant Society, serving as a Board Member for a number of years. She enjoyed traveling and taking scenic photographs. She loved birdwatching and gardening, and the native plants growing around her in the Kansas landscape.
Sister Patricia Stanley (1934 - 2020)
Sr. Patricia Mae Stanley, CSJ, 86, was born in Ashland, KS.
Sr. Patricia was a woman of many talents and interests. As an educator, she taught in elementary and middle schools, and at the college level for most of her professional life. She also gained expertise in Internet Technologies, working in that capacity at the Congregation of St. Joseph until her death.
As a long-time member of KWS/KNPS, Sister Patricia ably served in a variety of capacities over the years. She participated in outings, photographed Kansas native plants, edited the Society’s Newsletter, served as a Board member, and with her IT skills, provided leadership for the Society’s first website. She was also mentor and friend to many.
Her warm smile and can-do spirit are missed.
