Gale Wayne Eveleigh, a lifelong farmer and devoted father, passed away on Sunday, February 11, 2024, at Kearney County Hospital in Lakin, Kansas. He was born on March 5, 1951, to Clyde and Viola (Turner) Eveleigh, in Garden City, Kansas. Gale will be remembered for his strong work ethic and the love he had for his family.
Gale and Kay (Patton) Eveleigh were married on July 17, 1970, at the First Baptist Church of Ulysses, Kansas.
Gale’s passion for providing for his family took him many places. He instilled a great work ethic in his children and took pride in teaching them the value of hard work. Gale got his pilot’s license at 16 and his aviation endeavors were a testament to his adventurous spirit and love for exploration.
In addition to his farming and flying pursuits, Gale had various hobbies that brought joy into his life. He cherished spending quality time with his family, especially his beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Gale’s face would light up whenever he was surrounded by their laughter and innocence. He also had an affinity for toy tractors and enjoyed collecting them. Gale enjoyed riding his motorcycle and went on many adventures with uncles and friends.
He was a kind-hearted soul who had the remarkable ability to strike up conversations with anyone he met. Gale was known for being welcoming and friendly, always making others feel at ease in his presence. His warm personality illuminated the lives of those around him.
Gale is survived by his wife, Kay Eveleigh of Ulysses, Kansas; daughters Laura Matkin (Marcus) of Ulysses, Kansas, and Cammi Metzen (Melvin) of Garden City, Kansas; son Clint Eveleigh (Melody) of Ulysses, Kansas; grandchildren Akasha, Gage, Koulter, Khylissa, Jax, and Turner Eveleigh; William Vanatta (Linzie), Kari Adams (Mary), Nathan Matkin and MaeKaylee Matkin; Kiersten Hamit (Brenden), Caleb Metzen, and Kyler Metzen; great-grandchildren Ryan and Hazel Vanatta; Bryson and Emmaline Hamit; Brother John Eveleigh (Donalda) of Wichita, Kansas; Sisters, Sonya Allen (Pat)of Fruitland, Washington, Virginia Bodey (Terry) of Elk City, Oklahoma, and other relatives and friends.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Clyde and Viola.
A memorial has been established for Fathers in the Field through New Beginnings Church. In care of Robson Funeral Home, 218 South Main Street, Ulysses, Kansas 67880.
Visitation services will be held on Thursday, February 15, 2024, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM and Friday, February 16, 2024, from 2:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Robson Funeral Home in Ulysses, Kansas.
The funeral service will be held at New Beginnings Church in Ulysses, Kansas on Saturday, February 17, 2024, at 10:00 AM. The burial will follow at Lakin Cemetery in Lakin, Kansas.