January 26, 2026

Linn County News

Published January 28, 2026

Jerel Lynn Pankratz, born Dec. 8, 1956, in Hillsboro, Kan. He went to be with the Lord Jan. 20, 2026. He was a devoted family man, farmer, and lifelong steward of the land. He was born to Allen and Dorothy Pankratz and was raised with strong values of faith, hard work, and service to others.
Jerel was a farmer and livestock man at heart. He valued family above all else and was most proud of his children and grandchildren, who were the greatest joy of his life. His quiet strength, steady presence, and unwavering dedication defined the way he lived and loved.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Allen and Dorothy Pankratz; and his beloved son, Cody.

Jerel is survived by his daughters Paula and Kurt Schwarz, La Cygne, Kan., and Heather and Jeff Madison, Fort Scott, Kan.; his grandchildren Parker, Sutton, and Grayson Schwarz, and Grady and Haven Madison; his sisters Barbara and Lonnie Thiessen; Krista and Max Heinrichs; and extended family who will deeply miss his guidance, wisdom, and love.

Growing up, Jerel was a member of Hillsboro Mennonite Brethren Church and most recently was a member of Centerville Community Church, where his faith continued to be an important part of his life.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 1 p.m. Sunday, February 8, 2026, at the Centerville Community Church, Centerville, Kan.

In lieu of flowers the family would ask memorials may be made to Good Shepherd Hospice or to the Jerel Pankratz Memorial Fund (Union State Bank- Fort Scott, Kan.), which will be used to support families facing fertility challenges or those exploring adoption as they grow their families. Online condolences can be left at www.schneiderfunerals.com.