Leslie Riner

A Mass of Christian Burial for Leslie Anne Riner will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, April 27, 2013 at Corpus Christi Catholic Church, Lawrence, KS.  Leslie died Saturday April 20, 2013 after a courageous five-year battle with cancer.

Leslie Anne Wurdeman was born September 23, 1983 in Topeka, KS, the daughter of Tom and Dana (Harris) Wurdeman.

Leslie grew up in Overbrook, KS and graduated from Santa Fe Trail High School and Emporia State University School of Nursing.  She worked at St. Francis Hospital, Topeka and most recently at Lawrence Surgery Center in Lawrence.

Leslie married Kevin Riner on April 25, 2009 at Corpus Christi Church in Lawrence, KS.  They built their home in rural Lecompton, KS.

She will be remembered for her amazing smile and her strength, determination and courage in facing her illness.  She was simply a beautiful person inside and out.

She is survived by her husband, Kevin of the home, her father and mother, Tom and Dana Wurdeman of Overbrook; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Jeff and Ronda Riner of Lecompton; her brother and sister-in-law, Gabe and Heather and their children, Mason and Alayna of Osage City; her brother, Greg of Overbrook; brother-in-law, Eric and fiancé, Kelli of Kansas City; grandparents, Bill and Joan Harris of Fowler, KS; Kevin’s grandparents, Larry and Mary James of Lecompton; many aunts, uncles and cousins.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Leslie Riner Memorial Fund in care of Warren McElwain Mortuary.  The fund will be designated later to the Lawrence Oncology Center.

 

81 Condolences

  1. Karen VanMeter on April 22, 2013 at 10:28 am

    Sending all my love and best wishes to Kevin and the entire family.



  2. Gary and Julie Crowe on April 22, 2013 at 1:19 pm

    Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. If there is anything we can do for you, please do not hesitate to call.
    Gary and Julie Crowe



  3. Gerald and Sharon Dwyer on April 22, 2013 at 2:52 pm

    Thinking of all of the family and wishing for your strength and comfort in the days that are ahead you. Embrace all the wonderful memories of Leslie.



  4. Todd and Crystal Dwyer on April 22, 2013 at 5:29 pm

    Please accept our most heartfelt sympathies for your loss…our thoughts are with you and your family during this difficult time



  5. Mickey and Betty on April 22, 2013 at 6:54 pm

    Tom,Dana and Kevin

    Our hearts go out to you. We can not imagine the loss you are feeling. We plan to be with you guys Saturday. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
    With love

    Mickey and Betty



  6. Michelle Guy on April 22, 2013 at 10:41 pm

    Saddened by the loss, but celebrating an angel. Leslie was an amazing person and friend. I will never forget all of the wonderful times we had together. Thoughts and prayers to the family.



  7. casey simpson on April 22, 2013 at 10:58 pm

    Thoughts and prayers Kevin. I thought Leslie would like a “Go Cats!!”



  8. Tom & Diane Harrington on April 22, 2013 at 11:04 pm

    We’re very sorry about the loss of Leslie. She was a great help and positive force at the Harmon wedding that we photographed she was a great help. She was a very nice person!



  9. Stacey Prim on April 22, 2013 at 11:23 pm

    Thoughts and prayers for you and loved ones in your time of grief. So sorry for your loss.



  10. Zac Eddy on April 23, 2013 at 12:43 am

    My deepest condolences to the Riner, Wurdeman, and Harris families as you all deal with such an incredible loss. Though I had precious few opportunities to get to know Leslie, I couldn’t help but be touched by her strength and grace. I am proud to have known her. Your families are in my prayers.



  11. Ginny Dugan-Eardley on April 23, 2013 at 1:24 am

    Kevin I am very sorry for your loss. You are in my prayers during this time.



  12. Marlene & Steve Schilds on April 23, 2013 at 6:14 am

    Keeping all of you in our hearts and prayers. Leslie was a bright light that was always shining at work. Even when the work wasn’t fun she could always see something good! She will truly be missed as she touched so many lives!



  13. Bill and Rhonda Sand on April 23, 2013 at 6:15 am

    What a beautiful, courageous young woman! Our prayers go out to all of Leslie’s loved ones. She has touched so many people with her gentle kindness. Doug said he remembers Leslie helping him learn how to count and his ABC’s at Bonnie’s house!



  14. Terry Breason on April 23, 2013 at 6:23 am

    All my toughts will be with you in these sad times but hope the joy of her life will always be felt.



  15. Matt, Molly, and Cade on April 23, 2013 at 6:49 am

    Tom, Dana, Kevin, Gabe, and Greg, Our thoughts and prayers go out to you.



  16. Dana & Kathy Coffman on April 23, 2013 at 6:58 am

    Wishing your family strength and peace. You are all in our thoughts,our prayers and our heart. Let the happy memories of Leslie carry you through.



  17. Maggie Mead on April 23, 2013 at 7:14 am

    Wurdeman and Riner families, Deeply sorry for the loss of Leslie. She was someone who radiated life and love in everything she did. Her smile said it all. Praying for you all during this very sad time. Aaron & Maggie (Sisson) Mead



  18. Linda Hodgson on April 23, 2013 at 7:57 am

    My thoughts and prayers are with you. Leslie was such a beautiful girl and her smile will always be remembered by those who loved her. May God bless you and comfort you as you grieve.



  19. Kristy Lewis on April 23, 2013 at 8:15 am

    Sending hugs your way. Even though we didn’t know Leslie well, she never made us feel like strangers. Such a sweet girl!



  20. Bryce and Shannon Visser on April 23, 2013 at 8:18 am

    Our deepest sympathies to Kevin and family. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Bryce, Shannon, Shea and Kaylee Visser.



  21. Alexis (Pryor) Michel on April 23, 2013 at 8:28 am

    Thinking of you all during this very difficult time, Leslie was a beautiful girl inside and out and a great role-model for all. She has touched so many lives and will be greatly missed. Sending prayers your way.



  22. Cassy Hantla Sollecchio on April 23, 2013 at 8:36 am

    I wish there were more words to say how sorry I am for your loss. Losing a child, wife, sister or friend at a young age is never fair. Prayers and thoughts for you all.



  23. David and Carol Salmon on April 23, 2013 at 8:43 am

    So sorry about Leslie. We are praying that God will give you the strength you need to get through this and to keep going.



  24. Caroline Thomas on April 23, 2013 at 8:47 am

    Words cannot express how anyone feels about the loss of such a beautiful person. Leslie was an inspiration to us all. My thoughts and prayers to the Wurdeman and Riner families.



  25. Jim & Kim Wurdeman on April 23, 2013 at 8:53 am

    Tommy,Dana,Kevin & Family,
    I life is taken to soon from our world to heaven. The Angels rejoice and we cry. May Gods love embrace you all. Our love and prayers are with you.



  26. Allie Roberts & Sarah Niemann on April 23, 2013 at 9:15 am

    Although we didn’t get to know Leslie as well as we hoped, we could tell just by the amount of love for her, that she was a spectacular person. Your family is in our thoughts and prayers. Sincerly, The Neuro ICU Nurses



  27. Rick and Dana Ellis on April 23, 2013 at 9:33 am

    Praying for peace that surpasses all understanding in Christ Jesus for you all.



  28. Emily Robbins on April 23, 2013 at 9:43 am

    I remember having so much fun with Leslie at Bonnie’s house! She was like a big sister to all of us kids. What a wonderful person. Thinking of your family during this time.



  29. Ed & Cheri Harmison on April 23, 2013 at 9:47 am

    Tom, Dana & family,
    Our thoughts and prayers go out to you during this time of loss….we are remembering two little girls in yellow costumes at a White Concert Hall dance recital….hold on to the good memories and each other. May God bless you and sustain you in your time of need.



  30. Marie Hesseltine on April 23, 2013 at 9:51 am

    We are so sorry for your loss. We use to live across the street in Overbrook from Tom and Dana. I remember when Dana and I were pregnant at the same time. Our Ryan is a few months younger. You all will be in our thoughts and prayers.
    Scott and Marie



  31. Travis and Kathy Baird on April 23, 2013 at 10:01 am

    Our thoughts and prayers to Kevin and the entire Riner and Wurdeman families. We cannot imagine the pain you are feeling losing such an amazing, bright young woman. Leslie was an inspiration to all of us.



  32. Zach and Kelli Haeffner on April 23, 2013 at 10:36 am

    Leslie was such an amazing person with a big smile and an even bigger heart. May God hold you in his loving arms and give everyone the peace that only He can give.



  33. Dena Sutton on April 23, 2013 at 11:09 am

    I am so very sorry for your loss. My prayers and thoughts are with your family during this time.



  34. Jaclyn and Josh Hackathorn on April 23, 2013 at 11:14 am

    We did not know Leslie, but knew of her fight through Kevin’s family. I know sympathy is not enough for the loss your heart feels. We will be praying for comfort in the memories and peace knowing she is with our Lord in heaven, made new again.



  35. Ken Smith on April 23, 2013 at 11:24 am

    Kevin:

    I am so sorry to learn of the loss of your wife, Leslie. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers.

    May your fondest memories of Leslie, in life, be of some comfort in this time of loss.



  36. Steve McKee on April 23, 2013 at 11:31 am

    My deepest condolences to Kevin and the entire family of Kevin and Les. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. I am a better person in this world due to knowing Les and Kevin. Thank you for the gift in my life.



  37. Jennifer (Toyne) Perry on April 23, 2013 at 11:38 am

    Wurdeman and Riner families, I am so sorry to hear of Leslie’s passing. My heart breaks to know the pain you are going through right now. My family is thinking of yours as you go through this most difficult time.

    Jennifer (Toyne) Perry, and family.



  38. Greg & Carol Howard on April 23, 2013 at 11:41 am

    Our thoughts, prayers and hugs are coming your way during this difficult time. Leslie put up a brave and courageous battle. She was a lovely person. Kevin, I can’t stop thinking about the difficult time you are having. You were so loved and you could see it everytime we were around the both of you. If there is anything, we can do, please let us know.



  39. Holly Gaylord on April 23, 2013 at 11:59 am

    Leslie was one of the nicest students that I knew when she was a youngster in my husband, Scott’s class. She was always so considerate of others and smiled no matter what. She was always with her mom when she came to visit my babies. Love you Wurdeman’s!!!



  40. Vicky Robbins on April 23, 2013 at 12:14 pm

    I was lucky enough to have Leslie as a role model growing up in Overbrook, as did many girls my age. Her compassion and the memories of time spent with her will never be lost on us. My heart goes out to all of her loved ones.



  41. Daniel and Ashley Landis on April 23, 2013 at 1:07 pm

    Kevin: We are deeply sorry to hear of your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you through this journey. May your heart and soul find peace and comfort in the precious memories you have with Leslie.



  42. Myriah Mulligan (Rice) on April 23, 2013 at 1:10 pm

    I am so sad for the loss of such an amazing person. Leslie was always a joy and it was an honor to call her my friend. Thoughts and prayers for all of you during this difficult time.



  43. Phillip and Gayle Vannicola on April 23, 2013 at 2:12 pm

    Our hearts are heavy for your loss. You are in our thoughts and prayers.



  44. Tonya Carroll on April 23, 2013 at 2:46 pm

    Thinking of all of you during your time of loss! Leslie was a wonderful young lady and I enjoyed the time I spent with her during Nursing School! She will be greatly missed.



  45. Marlene & Bob Swaggerty on April 23, 2013 at 3:06 pm

    Dear Kevin & Family, We are deeply saddened to hear of your loss. May the peach which comes from the memories of love shared, comfort you now & in the days ahead.



  46. Chris, Ralph, Bert and Tim Smith on April 23, 2013 at 3:24 pm

    Oh Dana…Tom, Kevin, Gabe, Greg and all your family. My heart aches for you. We have always considered you as part of our family and we grieve your loss of Leslie. I remember her long legs, beautiful smile and her fight for what’s right. She will be sorely missed. She spread joy to all of the people who had the opportunity to know her. We love you…Chris, Ralph and Tim.



  47. Larry and Sandy Temple on April 23, 2013 at 4:09 pm

    What a beautiful young woman inside and out. Her smile, loving heart and positive attitude lit up this world. You will be missed here but Heaven definitely gained an Angel…. Sorry for your loss Kevin, Dana, Tom, Gabe and Greg



  48. Dave and Marlene Jolly and family on April 23, 2013 at 4:35 pm

    Kevin
    We are deeply sadden for your loss. You are in our thoughts and prayers. I am sure God has received another Angel.



  49. Dave and Marlene Jolly and family on April 23, 2013 at 4:37 pm

    Kevin
    We are deeply sadden for your loss. You are in our thoughts and prayers. I am sure God has received another Angel.



  50. Dave and Marlene Jolly and family on April 23, 2013 at 4:37 pm

    Kevin
    We are deeply sadden for your loss. You are in our thoughts and prayers. I am sure God has received another Angel.



  51. Jerry and Ann Sand on April 23, 2013 at 6:18 pm

    Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Leslie will be greatly missed by so many.



  52. Tyson Heins on April 23, 2013 at 6:34 pm

    I remember Leslie as a caring, smiling, wonderful student. I am sorry for your loss and will add Kevin and the Wurdeman family to my prayer list. While I hadn’t seen her since our days at SFT, it is apparent from the other comments that she was still a strong, beautiful, and wonderful young person who will be greatly missed. May God grant you peace, strength, and comfort in this difficult time.



  53. Travis Palmer on April 23, 2013 at 7:04 pm

    I have so much respect for you and how you lived your life. I am thankful that I had the opportunity to work with you. Your courage will live on in the people that you have touched and inspired.



  54. Randy and Linda Hulsopple on April 23, 2013 at 8:54 pm

    We are sad’n to hear the news but she is in gods hands now as an angel with wings now and will greet us as it is our turn. Sorry it was her time before our time she was a good kid. If we can do anything let us know we are alsways there if needed.
    Randy and Linda



  55. Courtney Thompson on April 23, 2013 at 9:04 pm

    It is amazing to see how many lives one person can touch in such a positive way. I am grateful for having known you and having such wonderful memories to remember you by. All my love to the Riner and Wurdeman families. Les, you are forever in our hearts.



  56. Laura cote ( schiefelbein) and patrick cote on April 23, 2013 at 9:16 pm

    She will be missed. I can remember living next door to her when we were growing up and playing lots of stuff with her and her brother’s. She is with god now and I know she is watching over us. May you rest in peace.



  57. Steve McKee on April 24, 2013 at 8:16 am

    My deepest condolences to Kevin and the entire family of Kevin and Les. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. I am a better person in this world due to knowing Les and Kevin. Thank you for the gift in my life.



  58. Toni Coffee on April 24, 2013 at 10:27 am

    My prayers continue for you Dana and all of those whose life Leslie has touched. May the peace, comfort, and presence of the Lord Jesus be with you all during your time of loss.



  59. Stan & Becky Fisher on April 24, 2013 at 12:06 pm

    Prayers and sympathy going out to the family and friends. Hard to understand God’s timing. Blessings.



  60. Carrie Hoffman on April 24, 2013 at 2:10 pm

    Dearest Tom, Dana, Gabe, Greg and Families, My thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. Leslie was one of the most radiant young women I’ve ever had the pleasure of knowing. She will be truly missed, but her beautiful smile will continue to warm hearts forever. Sending my love.



  61. Janice Hantla Brewer on April 24, 2013 at 8:14 pm

    Dana, Tom & Family
    I know words can’t express the pain all of your family is going through.
    Please know there are many people who are thinking of your family.
    Remembering all of the good times with your daughter I hope will give you some comfort.



  62. S. Akers on April 25, 2013 at 9:55 am

    May God hold you and your families, Dana, and protect you during this painful journey and beyond. Your friends at work are all praying for you for we know how much Leslie meant to you all and what a wonderful mother you are. xxoo, ShirleyA



  63. Phyllis and Louis Copt on April 25, 2013 at 11:34 am

    Our deepest condolences to the Riner, James and Wurdeman families. Although we didn’t get the privilege of knowing Leslie, we sure do feel the loss of such a loved one. What a meaningful life she lived, and I’m sure God’s garden is happily accepting a beautiful angel.



  64. Eric Frana on April 25, 2013 at 3:01 pm

    Thoughts and prayers are with you. Please find peace and happiness with time. God bless and know this is within his big plan.



  65. Janet & Jim Lampe on April 25, 2013 at 8:27 pm

    Tom and Dana, Our hearts and prayers go out to you at this most difficult time. Leslie was a wonderful young woman and truly a gift from God. May you find comfort and peace as you remember the joy of life and love she shared with so many.



  66. Dana Noakes on April 25, 2013 at 8:45 pm

    It’s so hard to understand the loss of your beloved Leslie. Wishing you strength, comfort and peace during this difficult time.



  67. Jenni Lucas-Brown on April 26, 2013 at 10:37 am

    My sincerest thoughts are prayers are will all of you.



  68. Ellen Caster on April 26, 2013 at 10:44 am

    Our hearts our with you during this time. Leslie was a beautiful person. Her spirit still blesses our world. To all of her family, grace and peace, and prayers for healing.



  69. Debbie Cross Senne on April 26, 2013 at 1:03 pm

    It will be one of the hardest things I will ever do, to say good-bye to Leslie Anne tomorrow. We will remember. We will celebrate her total healing in heaven with Jesus who welcomes her home.



  70. shellia will on April 26, 2013 at 2:02 pm

    My deepest sympathy to the entire family. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. Rachelle, please know i am thinking of you and the girls. God Bless



  71. Sid, Rozanna & Quay Howard on April 26, 2013 at 2:14 pm

    Love & Prayers for ya’ll during this difficult time



  72. Senator Anthony Hensley on April 26, 2013 at 3:45 pm

    Please accept my condolences on your daughter Leslie’s passing. My daughter Katie will be 29 on May 1st so I can only imagine the grief you feel at this time. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.



  73. Bob & Bev Ireland on April 26, 2013 at 4:39 pm

    Sending our love and prayers to the families. We watched Leslie grow into a beautiful young woman inside and out. May the Lord give you all strength and peace. God Bless



  74. David Oaks on April 27, 2013 at 6:30 am

    Leslie was one of the strongest and bravest people I have ever known. I remember coming into work and seeing her smiling face at the front desk of the OR. Even later in her fight she would be there, running the board , thinking about other people, being a great nurse. She is an inspiration to everyone who was blessed to know and work with her. She showed us all the meaning of courage. Gob bless her and her family.



  75. Ray Kelly on April 30, 2013 at 8:45 am

    Dana and Tom – My thoughts and prayers are with you. No words can even begin to express feelings about a loss such as this. Love, Ray



  76. Diana Espinoza on April 30, 2013 at 4:04 pm

    Dana & Family, My heart aches for you all with the loss of your daughter. Prayers and my deepest condolences go out to your family.



  77. Diana Espinoza on April 30, 2013 at 4:04 pm

    Dana & Family, My heart aches for you all with the loss of your daughter. Prayers and my deepest condolences go out to your family.



  78. Diana Espinoza on April 30, 2013 at 4:08 pm

    Dana & Family, My heart aches for you all with the loss of your daughter. Prayers and my deepest condolences go out to your family.



  79. Samantha Royles on May 2, 2013 at 5:15 pm

    Dana, I am not sure if you will remember working with me, but I just wanted to express my deepest sympathies for your family’s loss. My thoughts and prayers are present with you and your family. She was a beautiful woman and by the comments left by others I can tell she was a wonderful person.



  80. Roger & Kim Davis on May 8, 2013 at 2:03 pm

    Our thoughts and prayers are with you all in your time of sorrow and loss.



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