CLAFLIN — Harold J. “Boots” Blazek, 85, died Oct. 8, 2013 at Woodhaven Care Center in Ellinwood.
Born June 2, 1928 in  Claflin, he was the son of Joseph and Amelia (Galliardt) Blazek. A lifelong Claflin resident, he graduated from Claflin High School and also attended Salt City Business College. Boots enjoyed watching sports, golfing, spending time with his family, and his dog, Mindy.
Mr. Blazek served his country in the United States Army during the Korean Conflict. He was a lifetime member of Veterans of Foreign Wars Ralph B. Praeger Post No. 8668 in Claflin, and the American Legion in Holyrood. On January 11, 1959 he married Nedra Clay at Great Bend.
Survivors include his wife, Nedra Blazek, of the home; two sons, Mark Blazek and wife Becky, Salina; and Joe Blazek, Great Bend; a daughter, Kristi Blazek and husband Greg Burkhart, Palmer Lake, Colo.; and four grandchildren, Sara Brownfield, Molly Skeen, Patrick Blazek, and Tyler Blazek.
He was preceded in death by his parents; two sisters, Helen Mullenix, and Clara Mullenix.
Funeral service will be held at 10 a.m. Friday at Nicholson-Ricke Funeral Home in Hoisington, with the Reverend Don Fisher officiating. Burial will follow at the Claflin Cemetery, with military graveside rites conducted by the Fort Riley Honor Guard. Friends may call from 2 until 8 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home.
Memorials are suggested to the Claflin Recreation Commission or Wounded Warrior Project in care of the funeral home.

Funeral arrangements provided by
Nicholson-Ricke Funeral Home
P.O. Box 146
Hoisington, Ks. 67544
Great Bend (Kan) Tribune, Oct. 10, 2013