WAPPELHORST, KENNETH RALPH "KEN", age 77 , of Andover, Kansas, passed away on Saturday, September 20, 2025. Ken was a loving husband, father, grandpa, brother and friend.

Ken was born and raised in Colwich, Kansas where he developed a strong connection to his community and a lifelong love for the outdoors. He graduated from Bishop Carroll(formerly Notre Dame) High School in 1966 and continued his education at Wichita State University. In 1968, duty called and Ken was drafted into the United States Army. He served his country with honor as a medic in the Vietnam War until 1970 receiving a Purple Heart and a Bronze Star for his service to his country.

Upon returning from his service, Ken married Peggy Orth in 1976 and together they welcomed a daughter, Erica in 1977. Later he married Dana Shively in 1983 and they were blessed with  two children, Jaimie in 1988 and Marcus in 1991. Ken also dedicated many years of service to the US Post Office as a mail handler, until his retirement.

Outside of work, Ken found joy in nature. He was an avid outdoorsman who loved to camp and fish, often spending hours on the water in his trusty old blue boat. He was also known for his culinary skills, whether cooking indoors or over an open campfire. Ken looked forward to the annual Kansas Vietnam Veterans and Family Reunion at El Dorado Lake, where he reconnected with fellow veterans.

Ken had a gift for making friends wherever he went, leaving a lasting impression on those he encountered with his friendly demeanor. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Ken is preceded in death by his parents, Max and Mary Ann Wappelhorst. He is survived by his beloved wife Dana Wappelhorst; his daughters Erica Muhlenbruch, Jaimie (Dustin) Surcey; his son Marcus Wappelhorst and his grandchildren Liam and Kennedy Surcey. He is also survived by brothers and sisters Kathryn (Ron) Avey, Virginia (Mike-deceased) Ternes, Susan (Larry) Booze, Dorothy (Greg) Crumley, Mike (Kathy) Wappelhorst, Rose (Buck) Wright, Willie (Julie) Wappelhorst, Joe (Pat) Wappelhorst, Theresa Smith, Barbara (Dan) Benefiel, Patty (Ron-deceased) Daman, and Steve (Kathleen) Wappelhorst.

A funeral mass will be held on Friday, October 10, 2025 at 1:00 p.m. at St. Vincent De Paul Catholic Church, 123 N. Andover with Father Ken Van Haverbeke presiding.

Family asks that Memorial Donations in Ken's honor be made to the Kansas Veterans Festival, PO Box 66, El Dorado, KS 67042-0066.