Verlin Franklin Tonnies, age 92, of Knox City, MO, passed away Saturday, March 9, 2024, at his home east of Knox City.  He was born in Colony, MO on February 2, 1932, the son of Benjamin and Gertrude Riegel Tonnies.  He was united in marriage to Mary Frances Schempp, August 19, 1953, to this union two children, Rebekah Lin and husband Paul McCarty of Knox City, MO, and Deborah Louise and husband Steven Huebotter of Columbia, MO, four grandchildren, Christopher Meek and wife Leah of St. Joseph, MO, Melissa Meek Nelson and husband Nic of Hollister, MO, Kyle Gene Huebotter of Columbia, MO, and Daylin Huebotter of Columbia, MO, one step grandchild Andrew McCarty, great grandchildren, Lucas and Landon Nelson, Marley Jo and Michal Meek.. He was preceded in death by his parents and three sisters.

He graduated from Knox City High School in 1949 and served in the United States Army from January 7, 1954 to December 7, 1955.   He was a member of the Knox City Methodist Church and a member of the Knox City American Legion Post # 358.  On February 6, 1976 he bought interest in the Edina Auction Mkt.  His best friend was always his dog.  All of his life he has been involved in raising sheep and cattle, he loved his farm life.  He enjoyed hunting, the outdoors and attending the Rutledge Flea Market.

Graveside services will be held 11 A.M. Sunday, March 17th in the Knox City Cemetery, Knox City, MO.  Reverend Graig Connell will officiate the services.  There will be no visitation.

Music will be provided by Lisa Blake at the graveside.

Casket bearers will be J.V. Norton, Larry Walker, John Clauson Miller, Richard Mauck, David Mitchell, and Terry Merritt.

The family request no flowers.  Memorials are suggested to the Knox City Methodist Church or the Knox County Local Cancer Fund.  Memorials may be left at or mailed to Hudson-Rimer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 1, Edina, MO 63537.