Oletha Michels

Oletha (Letha) Mae Michels, age 92, a long time Independence resident passed away Sunday, June 14, 2020 at Morningstar Homes in Neodesha, Kansas.

Oletha was born on March 22, 1928 in Lockwood, Missouri to Ray Polston and Frances Grider Polston. She attended Golden City schools graduating in 1946. Letha attended Draughons Business University in Springfield, Missouri. She was employed in the office of Western Auto Stores in Joplin, Missouri before moving to Independence, Kansas in 1948.

She married Louis (Lou) Michels, the love of her life on June 15, 1947 in Joplin, Missouri.

In the early years of their marriage she traveled with Lou, who was a pitcher for the New York Yankees Minor League farm team. She enjoyed watching him play ball. In the winter months they resided in Independence, Kansas.

She enjoyed sports, was a member of the Independence Ladies Golf Association. She carded two hole in ones at Independence Country Club. She was a member of U.S.B.C Women’s Bowling Association and a member of the First Christian Church since 1953. She also served on several Neewollah committees and was a member of Mercy Hospital Auxiliary and Friday Study Federated Club.

She is survived by one brother, Kenneth Polston and wife Carol of Pryor, Oklahoma. Daughter, Pamela Hines and husband David and Daughter Kay Michels, both of Independence, Kansas. Oletha is also survived by 4 Grandchildren, Christopher Hines and wife Stacy, Scott Hines and wife Denise, Shannon Oakes and husband Tyson all of Independence, Kansas and Sarah Porter and husband Mark of Jenks, Oklahoma. Also surviving are 12 Great Grandchildren and 3 Great Great Grandchildren.

She is preceded in death by her parents and her husband, Louis Michels.

A private family graveside service will be held on Thursday, June 18th at Mount Hope Cemetery in Independence, Kansas.

A book signing will be held at Webb and Rodrick Funeral Home in Independence, Kansas Tuesday and Wednesday, 8:00am-5:00pm.

In Lieu of flowers the family has suggested that memorials be made to Forpaz or AWOL of Independence.