Bill “B.J.” Merando

Bill “B.J.” Merando, 83, of Frontenac, Kan., died at 10:29 a.m. Sunday, Aug. 13, 2017, at Via Christi Hospital at Pittsburg, Kan.

Mr. Merando was born April 15, 1934, at Frontenac, Kan., the son of James and Valerie Mingori Merando. He worked at A.J. Cripe Bakery from 1959 to 1984, when they closed. He later opened B.J. Pawn Shop in Fort Scott from 1984 to 2015 when he retired. He married Genevra Moore in 1953 and they later divorced. He then married Donna Ramey and they later divorced. He married Marilyn Cessna in 1974 and they later divorced.

Survivors include two sons, Calvin Merando and his wife Lynne of Frontenac and Bill Merando and his wife Tressa of Frontenac; grandchildren Ashley Merando Roberts and her husband Matt, Katie Merando Falk and her husband Stephen, and Derek Merando; and great-grandchildren Elizabeth Falk, Caroline Falk, and Kaden Merando. He was preceded in death by his parents and a grandson, Bryan Merando.

Mr. Merando has been cremated according to his wishes. No services are planned. Friends may call at the home of his son, Calvin Merando, 609 W. Leighton, Frontenac, Kan., from noon to 4 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 16, 2017. The family suggests memorials to the Southeast Kansas Humane Society. Donations may be sent or left at the Bedene Funeral Home, 517 E. Washington, Box 621, Arma, KS 66712 or sent to Calvin Merando, 609 W. Leighton, Frontenac, KS 66763.