OTIS — Kanyn James Sharkey, 1, passed away Dec. 26, 2023, at Ascension Via Christi St. Francis, Wichita, Kan. He was born on June 16, 2022, in Great Bend, Kan., to Taylor Sharkey. 

Kanyn, often referred to as the “mountain goat”, lived an adventurous full life of 18 short months. For those that knew this little daredevil, were quite aware that he had the energy of three ornery boys, packed into an audacious firecracker. Kanyn left nothing left untouched or unclimbed, however, was also quick to nestle in, giggle and sing along with some of his favorite movies; “Toy Story”, “The Lion King”, “Coco” and “Moana”. He especially loved hanging out with his grandpa and grandma, Mike and Colleen Sharkey, every spare moment.   

Survivors include his mother of Otis, Kan.; grandparents, Mike and Colleen Sharkey of Otis, Kan.; uncle, Todd Sharkey and wife, Chantel of Otis Kan.; cousins, Josie and Parker Sharkey of Otis, Kan.; and numerous other loved ones.

Visitation will take place 1 p.m. to 8 p.m. Friday, December 29, 2023, with rosary at 7 p.m., all at Nicholson-Ricke Funeral Home. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 2:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 30, 2023, at St. Ann Catholic Church, Olmitz, Kan., with Father Bob Schremmer presiding. Interment will follow at St. Ann Cemetery. The family has requested that guests dress casually. Guests are strongly recommended to wear masks for the safety of themselves and others. Memorials have been designated to the Brit Spaugh Zoo or Otis Fire Department, in care of Nicholson-Ricke Funeral Home, PO Box 146, Hoisington, KS 67544. Condolences may be sent and notice viewed at www.nicholsonrickefh.net.

Funeral arrangements provided by

Nicholson-Ricke Funeral Home 

P.O. Box 146 

Hoisington, KS 67544

Great Bend (Kan.) Tribune, Dec. 30, 2023