HAVILAND — Bernard Lavoe Taylor, 90, of Haviland, died Dec. 18, 2022, at his home. He was born Oct. 7, 1932, in Sterling, to Glenn G. and Helen E. (Holt) Taylor Sr.

Bernard graduated from Nickerson High School. He served in the United States Army from 1955-1956. Bernard was a retired farmer and co-owner, with his father and brothers, Gary, Ancil, and Ronnie, of Taylor Equipment Inc. of Great Bend. He and Gary also owned TNT Productions, an oil and gas company. Bernard served for many years as the treasurer of Barton County Historical Society. He also enjoyed fishing, but especially loved spending time with his family.

On Nov. 26, 1955, Bernard married Norma “Jean” Jones in Garden City. She died Dec. 22, 2002.

He is survived by his children, Stephen Taylor (Carol) of Ottawa, Ill., Gregory Taylor (Francine) of Redwood City, Calif., Douglas Taylor (Susan) of Auburn, Calif., Valerie Droegemeier (Terry) of Geneseo, Michelle Symank (Frank) of Dundee; 17 grandchildren; 32 great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren; brother, Ronald Taylor (Carolyn) of Haviland; sister, Connie Hardage (Darrell) of Lenexa; companion, Rose Spain of Haviland; and numerous extended family members. Bernard was preceded in death by his parents; grandson, Kerry Clone; granddaughter, Tessa Tittel; and brothers, Ancil, Stanley, and Gary.

Cremation has taken place. A graveside service is being planned for June, 2023, in Memorial Park Cemetery, Hutchinson.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Barton County Historical Society, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.

Funeral arrangements provided by

Elliott Mortuary 

1219 N. Main 

Hutchinson, KS 67501

Great Bend (Kan.) Tribune, Dec. 21, 2022