CLAFLIN — Walter K. Ehly, 83, died July 23, 2011, at his residence in Claflin. Born Oct. 17, 1927, in Claflin, he was the son of August and Mary (Knorr) Ehly. Raised in Claflin, he was a graduate of Claflin High School. He graduated from Fort Hays State College with a degree in math and science, and continued his studies to receive his Master’s degree in 1956 with a major in Secondary Eduction. His first year of teaching was spent teaching science and math in Pawnee Rock and he later spent 29 years teaching in the Wichita School District, at North High, Hamilton Junior High and Mead Junior High. After his retirement from teaching he spent many hours enjoying farming either at Claflin or at his farm near Hoisington.

He served his country both in the U.S. Marine Corp. and the U.S. Air Force.

Mr. Ehly was a member of the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, in Claflin, the Great Bend Knights of Columbus No. 862, and the Hoisington American Legion Post No. 286.

Survivors include a sister, Jolene Walden of Apple Valley, Calif.; many nieces and nephews; and special friend, Lenora Barnes, of Great Bend. He was preceded in death by three brothers, James, Richard and August Ehly; and four sisters, Helen Kimpler, Lois Linsner, Lucille Bergstrom and Beatrice Jarchou.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10 a.m. on Wednesday at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Claflin officiated by Father Charles Maszouch. Burial will be at the Claflin Cemetery with military honors by Richard B. Praeger Veterans of Foreign Wars Post No. 8668. A vigil service will be held at 7 p.m. Tuesday, followed by a Great Bend Knights of Columbus rosary at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Claflin. Friends may visit from 1-4 p.m. Tuesday at Nicholson Ricke Funeral Home. Memorials are suggested the Holy Family School Endowment Fund in care of the funeral home. Condolences may be sent and notice viewed at www.nicholsonrickefh.net.