Obituaries - September 12, 2024

Richard Clay Tilton

Richard Clay Tilton, 99, passed away peacefully on Sunday, September 8, 2024, surrounded by his loved ones. Born on April 18, 1925, in Lincoln, Kansas, Richard was a devout Christian, deeply committed to his faith throughout his life. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, known for his kind heart, generosity, and unwavering dedication to God.

In 1942, Richard proudly joined the 82nd Airborne as a paratrooper during World War II, where he earned the Victory Medal for his service. On May 28, 1950, Richard married Hazel Mae (Soeken), and they shared 74 years of marriage. He is survived by Hazel, who resides in Salina, Kansas. Together, they raised two children: Mike Tilton (wife Linda) of Monument, New Mexico, and Pamela (Tilton) Hertel (husband Marvin) of Ensign, Kansas. They were blessed with three grandchildren—Christa Hansen (Brad), Brigette Henry (Troy), and Ryan VanderGiesen (Ryan Craig)—as well as five great-grandchildren: Paige, Trevor, Danielle, Zane, and Brandon.

After being honorably discharged from the war, Richard and Hazel owned and operated Tilton’s Tasty Treats in Downs, Kansas, for over a decade. In addition to running the business, Richard had a successful career as a diesel mechanic with John Deere. The couple eventually moved to Dodge City, Kansas, where Richard became a welding and mechanics instructor at Dodge City Community College. Beyond his professional achievements, Richard was well-known for his woodworking skills. In retirement, he was an avid golfer and he enjoyed spending time outdoors, working in the yard, and in the garden.

Richard will be laid to rest on Wednesday, September 25, 2024, in a private service. He will be greatly missed by his loving family and all who knew him.

Jack Vogt

Jack Dewayne Vogt went home to be with his Lord and Savior on September 7, 2024. He passed away at home, with his two loving daughters, Debra and Christina Vogt, at his side. He was 89 years old.

Jack was born in Hillsboro, KS on June 5, 1935 to Arnold and Edna Vogt. He grew up helping out at his father’s grocery store and nursery business. He attended Hillsboro High School where he lettered in varsity basketball. He married his high school sweetheart, Martha Lee “Pat” Nelson in Durham, KS on Oct. 14, 1952. Together they raised their two daughters, Debra and Chris, while also starting a produce trucking business from their home in Marion, KS.

Jack and Pat moved their family to Nebraska and later Michigan for career opportunities. Most notably, Jack worked for the Michigan Apple Committee after settling in Grand Rapids, MI where he and Pat bought a house and enjoyed many years together. His work afforded them numerous opportunities to travel. Jack and Pat loved to travel together for work and for fun throughout their marriage.

After retiring early due to his health, he and his family returned home to Kansas where he bought a house in Tampa, KS, and had the opportunity to help raise his grandchildren, Matthew and Michael Vogt. He purchased a small plot of land adjacent to the house and established a small farm, raising horses, gardening, and welcoming all stray dogs and cats that seemed to flock to his door for shelter. Jack loved all living things great and small and had a special fondness for lost animals. He enjoyed the great outdoors and loved plants and trees which stemmed from his youth working at his father’s nursery and later in his career in produce.

Jack was a hard worker, a devoted family man, and a devout Christian. He was an Edler in the Presbyterian Church. He had a kind servant’s heart and would always help others before himself. He enjoyed working on cars and always loved when a car show came to town.

Sadly, in 2010 his lifelong love and partner, Pat, passed away at the age of 74 due to failing health. Her passing affected him greatly and he missed her to his dying day. However, he remained steadfast in the following years committed to supporting his family and regaling his daughters with many great stories of his trucking days on the roads of Kansas, Colorado, Nebraska, Texas, Missouri, and Michigan.   He had a terrific sense of humor, a quick wit, and was a wonderful storyteller. He was positive, good-natured, upbeat, friendly, always genial, and considerate. He was the best of company and a joy to be around. He looked for the good in life, and his family found it in him.

He is survived by his Brother, Gary (and Delight) Vogt, Sister, Lynda Vogt (and Guy) Sharwood Daughters, Debra and Christina Vogt, and Grandsons, Matthew and Michael (and Melissa) Vogt and Great Grandchildren Connor Thompson, Cadence, and Keldon Vogt and a small but mighty group of prayer warrior friends.

Graveside service will be at 10:30 am, Friday 13th, 2024 at Gypsum Hill Cemetery. Memorials may be made to Salina Rescue Mission and sent in care of Ryan Mortuary.

We know he is thrilled to be in Heaven and to rejoin his beloved Pat. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends.

Until we see you again, Jack, we were very fortunate and blessed to know you in this life.