Beverly Volen Obituary

LENEXA, KS -- Beverly Jean "Bev" Volen (née Schmenk), age 71, passed away on September 4, 2025, at Delmar Gardens in Lenexa, Kansas. Born on April 25, 1954, in Lima, Ohio, Bev was the daughter of Richard and Phyllis Schmenk.

She graduated from Elida High School in 1972 and later attended Austin Peay State University in Clarksville, Tennessee. Bev lived in several cities across the United States before settling in Kansas to be near her sons and grandchildren. Throughout her career, Bev worked in customer service and hospitality. Her roles included Subway restaurant owner, manager, and employee; cashier at Ray's Supermarket; and associate at Kohl's. Her dedication and warm personality left a lasting impression on coworkers and customers alike until her retirement.

Bev is survived by three sons from her 17-year marriage: Phillip (Lori) Volen of Lee's Summit, Missouri; Jake Volen; and Benjamin Volen, both of Johnson County, Kansas. She also leaves behind four grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. In addition, Bev has 4 surviving siblings-Sandy (Schmenk) Collar of Elida; Rick (Dorothy) Schmenk of Lebanon, Ohio; Teresa Schmenk of Morristown, New Jersey; and Debbie (Dan) Kirian of Elida, Ohio, along with numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews, all of whom mourn her passing.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her younger sister, Denise (Schmenk) Fogt. Bev found joy in simple pleasures such as bowling with friends or family, watching all levels of football and playing cards during family gatherings. Above all else, she treasured time spent with her family.

Jesus has her in HEAVEN, but she will always be in our hearts.

A Celebration of Life will be held on October 18, 2025, at 10:30 AM at New Hope Christian Center, 2240 Baty Road, Lima, Ohio.

The family requests no flowers or gifts but welcomes all for a time of fellowship following the service in the church rec area.

May Beverly's memory bring comfort to those who knew and loved her.