Kenneth C. Maechtlen, age 95, peacefully passed away on Thursday, Nov. 16, 2023. He was born on Oct. 1, 1928, to Herman and Adelene Maechtlen, the third of four children.

Ken’s early years were shaped by the simplicity of life on the family homestead east of Clearwater.

In high school, he met the love of his life, Marilyn Schmidt and from that point on they had quite the love story. They exchanged vows on Aug. 6, 1950, at Immanuel Baptist Church in Wichita. For an incredible 73 years, Ken and Marilyn created a legacy of love that lives on through their three children, nine grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.

He received his real estate license in 1963 and joined Wheeler-Kelly-Hagny Investments in

1964. His entrepreneurial endeavors led him to develop Edens Addition in Clearwater and Great Plains Cattle, Great Plains Alfalfa, Ken-Mar Land, Ken-Mar Farms, and PK Tower in Pratt County. He also served on several boards of professional and local organizations including the school board, the church board of trustees and endowment, the Scottish Rite of Freemasonry and the Farm Land Institute. Ken was a longtime devoted member of the Clearwater United Methodist Church and found strength in his faith. Above all, he cherished his family and found immense joy in their company.

He’s preceded in death by his parents, Herman and Adelene (Smith) Maechtlen; siblings, Ruth Hackerott Marlett, Vivian Rink, and Norma Bonham; and daughter-in-law, Victoria Maechtlen. He is

survived by his wife, Marilyn (Schmidt) Maechtlen; daughter, Linda (Ted) Hill of Milton; son,

Steven Maechtlen of Pratt; and daughter, Michelle (John) Cochran of Mission. Grandchildren

include Tracy (Gerren) Comeaux, Kendra (Jason) Wolff, Tamara (Justin) McGillicuddy, Krystal

(Josh) Gruenwald, Katie Hill, Kyle (Sadie) Maechtlen, Kelly (Scott) Shorten, Ben Cochran, and Kenny

(Bailey) Cochran. Great-grandchildren are Kale, Cooper, Gracie, Kenlee, Madison, Addie, Jaxon

and Claire.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Clearwater United Methodist Church Endowment

Fund (130 N. First, Clearwater, KS 67026) or to the Kenneth Maechtlen Scholarship Fund (in memo), checks payable to Clearwater Community Foundation, c/o Charles Engineering, PO Box 369, Clearwater, KS 67026.

There will be a visitation from noon to 7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 24, with family present from 5:30-7 p.m. at Webb-Shinkle Mortuary, 200 S. Tracy St. Clearwater. A funeral service will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 25, at the Clearwater United Methodist Church.

Fond memories and condolences may be shared at www.wsmortuary.com for his family.

Kenneth C. Maechtlen will forever be remembered for his character, humor and unwavering love for his family. We know his legacy will continue to inspire generations to come. May his soul rest in peace and may his memory bring comfort to those who knew and loved him.