Ronald J. Karlin, 74, died July 30 at Hays Medical Center. Born Sept. 26, 1936, in Hays, he was the son of Henry W. and Evelyn M. (Rupp) Karlin. On June 7, 1958, he married Virginia Dufford Wysong in Larned. She survives. A resident of Great Bend since 1943, coming from Hays, he was an area salesman for Frito Lay, retiring after 21 years. He was an avid golfer and gardener and enjoyed his dogs. He was known for his Santa Claus helicopter, which he had on display each Christmas at his home on Broadway.

Mr. Karlin was a member of the Prince of Peace Parish and the Lake Barton Golf Club.

Survivors include his wife, of the home; a son, Doug Karlin and wife Natalie of Colwich; three daughters, Kathy Hayes and husband Jim of Great Bend, Christi Roy and husband Rodney of Hays, and Diana Hocker of Bedford, Pa.; two sisters, Lucille Davis and June Hillman, both of Great Bend; and nine grandchildren, Jenna Hayes, Eric Hayes, Jason Roy, Kellie Roy, Josh Roy, Sarah Hocker, Ryan Hocker, Kayden Karlin and Augustin Karlin. He was preceded in death by his parents; and a sister, Donna Linke.

Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. on Wednesday at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church in Great Bend with Father Charles Mazouch and Father Don Bedore officiating. Interment will be at the Great Bend Cemetery North. A vigil service will be held at 7 p.m. Tuesday at Bryant Funeral Home. Friends may visit from noon to 9 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home. Memorials are suggested to the Pawnee County Humane Society of Holy Family School, in care of the funeral hone. Condolences may be sent and notice viewed at www.bryantfh.net.