David Allen Ditto, 81, of Abilene, Kansas died Sunday, February 9, 2025 at his home surrounded by his family. He was born on November 7, 1943 in Salina, Kansas to John (Jack) and Olive (Forsythe) Ditto. On August 5, 1962 he married Janice Prater. Together they had three children, Chandra, David Jr. and Troy.
He was preceded in death by his parents, brother, John Ditto, sister, Shirley Acklin and infant son David Ditto Jr.
He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Janice; daughter Chandra (Hank) Steckman and son Troy (Darci) Ditto; 4 grandchildren, Drew Miley, Courtney (Brett) Cross, Brody Ditto, Reece Ditto; and six great grandchildren, David Miley, Dannie Mae Miley, Gracie Case, Derek Miley, Eli Case and Mack Cross.
Dave spent most of his working career as a welder/machinist working for Exline Inc. and then Turbine Specialties where he retired in 1998. Dave and Janice, together, owned and operated Ditto Kennels in Abilene, Kansas where they raised and trained racing greyhounds for themselves, as well as many customers from all over the world.
Dave had a love for all things “animal.” He raised and cared for about every animal you could imagine in his lifetime. Dogs, pigeons, and horses took up most of his time, but horses were truly his passion. He raised Quarter Horses, and together with his wife, operated as D&J Quarter Horse Ranch for over thirty years. They raised, trained, and showed horses all over the United States.
Dave was the President of the Eastern Kansas Horseman Association for many years, and served as a Horse Show judge for many area shows and fairs.
Dave’s hobbies included raising show pigeons, racing pigeons, and raising and training hunting dogs. He spent many nights “coon hunting” and many days “coyote hunting” with family and friends.
Visitation will be held Thursday, February 13th, 2025 from 4:00-8:00 pm at Ryan Mortuary. The family will be receiving guests from 4:00-6:00 pm. The funeral service will be held Friday, February 14th, 2025 at 10:00 am at Ryan Mortuary, Salina, Kansas. Weather permitting, burial will follow at Roselawn Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Tammy Walker Cancer Center.
Ryan Mortuary, Salina, is in charge of arrangements.