Maxine Spare, previously Maxine Rich, passed into the loving care of her Heavenly Father, Nov. 9, 2013 at the age of 94. She was born Dec. 16, 1918 in a home outside Nickerson, Kan., to Clarence and Bessie Ditgen.

She lived here with her brothers Clarence (Jud) and Earl Ditgen who preceded her in death. She became a lifetime warrior for Jesus Christ following her teenage commitment to Him and now enjoys her eternal Heavenly Home. Maxine graduated from Nickerson High School in 1936 before marrying Clem Rich in 1938. The couple moved to St. John, Kan., in 1945 where they raised their three children, Ron (deceased Feb. 3, 1993), Rajean Barger and Randy. They attended and served at Calvary Baptist Church, Stafford, Kan. Clem and Maxine moved to Hutchinson in 1973 where she lived until her death.

Following Clem's death on June 23, 1991, Maxine married Richard Spare in May of 1997. The couple enjoyed investing in and supporting the lives of family and friends. They attended and served at Countryside Baptist Church, Hutchinson, Kan.

Graveside services will be 10 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 16, 2013 at Penwell-Gabel Cemetery and Mausoleum, Hutchinson, followed by a Celebration of Life Service at 2 p.m. at Calvary Baptist Church, Stafford. Visitation will be from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday with family present from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday at Elliott Mortuary, Hutchinson.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in memory of Maxine Spare may be made to Calvary Baptist Church, Stafford, Kan., Countryside Baptist Church, Hutchinson, Kan., or Hospice House in Hutchinson, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.