CHERRYVALE — Philomena Marie Blaes, 92, of Cherryvale passed away on Wednesday, April 30, 2025, at Labette Health in Parsons.
She was born on April 26, 1933, in Tishomingo, Oklahoma, to Joe and Hazel (Deeds) Doebel.
Philomena married Raymond Blaes in St. Paul on Oct. 24, 1955. He preceded her in death on March 28, 2021.
Throughout her life, Philomena embraced the joys of spending time with her family. She proudly raised her children and was the cherished grandmother and great-grandmother to her large family.
Philomena is survived by her children, John (Carol) Blaes, Tom (Melanie) Blaes, Marvin (Kim) Blaes, Jim (Tamara) Blaes, all of Cherryvale, and Theresa (Jim) Gates of Independence; eight grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; four stepgrandchildren; and her siblings, Sister Mary Clare Doebel of Wichita and Robert (Edna) Doebel of South Coffeyville, Oklahoma.
Philomena was preceded in death by her parents, Joe and Hazel (Deeds) Doebel; and her husband, Raymond Blaes, whose love and companionship she treasured.
Philomena enjoyed completing puzzles, word searches and fishing. Philomena had a particular talent for crocheting and making beautiful afghans. Her adventurous spirit shone through her fondness for riding her John Deere Gator, often creating memories that her family will cherish forever. Philomena was a dedicated farmer’s wife and member of the St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church and its Altar Society.
The community will honor Philomena’s life with a series of services at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Cherryvale. The family will receive friends from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 6, at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Cherryvale. This will be followed by rosary, which will begin at 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday at the church. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10 a.m. Wednesday, May 7, at the church with the Rev. Zachary Pinaire celebrating. Philomena will then be laid to rest in the St. Francis Xavier Catholic Cemetery.
Philomena Marie Blaes will be remembered for her unwavering love for her family, her creative spirit and her gentle soul that touched the lives of many. Her legacy will undoubtedly live on through the memories shared by those who loved her.
Memorials may be made to the St. Francis Xavier Altar Society, American Heart Association or St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital; they may be dropped off or mailed to Wickham Family Funeral Home & Cremation Service, 216 E. Fourth St., Cherryvale, KS, 67335.
