Olen L. Taton, 96 of Argonia, passed away Thursday, Sept. 19, 2024, at his daughter’s home near Argonia.

Olen entered this life April 6, 1928, near Argonia, and was the ninth of 10 children born to Emma (Kuhns) and Elmer Taton. He faced a serious bone infection in sixth grade that led doctors to believe he would never walk again. However, with his God-given strength and the support of his devoted older brothers, who never left him behind, Olen not only walked again but thrived. His resilience and tenacity were a testament to his remarkable spirit and positive attitude.

Olen graduated from Argonia High School with the class of 1947. Following high school, Olen and high school sweetheart, Betty Swingle, were united in marriage on Sept. 6, 1948. Together, they celebrated 76 years together. Their union was blessed with two children, Linda and Nolen.

Olen was a man of many talents, excelling in farming and ranching. He also was very gifted in carpentry and woodworking, and enjoyed singing and playing his guitar. He taught youth at the Friends Church in Argonia along with many Sunday school classes, and was an active 4-H leader throughout the years. Olen also was an active member of the Chisholm Trail Angus Association, serving on the board for many of those years.

Olen is preceded in death by his parents; his siblings, Ernest Taton, Velma Kollmorgan, Beulah Sevier, Ralph Taton, Raymond Taton, Ruth Smith, Murrell Taton, Elmer Taton, and James Taton; his son, Nolen Taton; and one granddaughter, Karlee Taton.

He is survived by his wife, Betty Taton; his daughter, Linda (Bill) McIntire of Argonia; four grandchildren, Andrew (Kristi) McIntire, Travis (Sheila) McIntire, Emily (Eric) Schroeder, Stephanie (Jared) Delaney; 10 great-grandchildren, Audra (Tyler) Hudspeth, Andrew McIntire, Bradey McIntire, Ethan McIntire, Lettie McIntire, Keenan Schroeder, Zachary Schroeder, Clayton Delaney, Carl Delaney, and Hadley Lozar; two great-great-grandchildren, Boone and Taton Hudspeth; many nieces and nephews; and a number of other relatives and friends.

Funeral service will be conducted at 10 a.m. Monday, Sept. 23, at First Baptist Church, Milton, with Pastor Mike Justice officiating. Interment will follow in Argonia Cemetery, Argonia.

Arrangements were by Ebersole Mortuary, Conway Springs. Online condolences and guest book are available at www.ebersolemortuary.com.

Memorials have been established with First Baptist Church, Milton, and the Harper County Fair Board.