Kenley Everett Hoffman passed away peacefully on November 29, 2025, surrounded by his family in Salina, KS. Born on December 7, 1944, in Beloit, KS, to Helen (Runft) and Raymond Hoffman, Kenley spent his childhood on the family farm near Tipton, KS, a place that he would cherish for most of his life. With the heart of a farmer and contagious laughter that embraced everyone he met, Kenley lived a life steeped in Christian values, grounded in family, hard work, honesty, and joy.
He graduated from high school in Cawker City in 1962 and began farming alongside his father on their homestead. During his youth, Kenley was involved in 4-H, played football, baseball, and was a member of the high school marching band.
On October 9, 1965, he married Linda (Jay) at the United Methodist Church in Cawker City, KS. Together, they shared a loving partnership for 60 years, filled with faith and a deep Christian devotion to their faith and family. From this union, three children were born: Kevin, Tricia, and Melissa.
Kenley's love for the family farm and the livestock, established by his great-grandparents in 1889, shaped his life. It was a homestead rich with family values, and his passion that became both his life's work and his vocation. Kenley was a master of repairs on the farm, often relying on a roll of duct tape, bailing wire and a can of expandable foam. Recently, he and Linda retired from farming and moved to Salina in 2020, where they reconnected with new friends and neighbors. They became active members of the First Church of the Nazarene, enjoying fellowship and weekly card games with their close-knit community.
Kenley held his family dear, cherishing the moments spent at the kids' sports, camping trips, and family vacations. He had a unique ability to connect with others, especially over a cup of coffee at the local co-op station in Tipton. He was always ready to lend a helping hand to fellow farmers. His laughter was truly unforgettable—full, contagious, and impossible not to share. It echoed in the hearts of everyone who knew him, serving as a reminder that laughter can be the best medicine to be discovered in life’s simplest moments.
His greatest source of happiness came from his family, particularly his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He treasured watching them grow, sharing home-cooked meals that his wife lovingly prepared and enjoying the time together.
Kenley is survived by his devoted wife, Linda; son, Kevin (Lisa) Hoffman of Salina; daughter, Tricia (Michael) Fry of Salina. His grandchildren: Chandler (Kaileigh) Hoffman and great-granddaughter Heidi of Gardner, KS; Lydia (Jake) Tiernan of Salina; Hannah Hoffman of Salina; Peyton Fry of Salina; Chantell (Josh) Wessling, and great-grandsons Kale and Kaden of Beloit. He is also survived by his sister, Karen Hoffman of Centennial, CO. He is preceded in death by his parents, his daughter Melissa Palen and sons-in-law Wade Lyle and Brian Palen.
Visitation will take place on Friday, December 5, from 4-6pm, with family members available starting at 5pm, at Ryan Mortuary, 137 N. 8th St., Salina. Funeral services are scheduled for Saturday, December 6, at 10:00 AM at the First Church of the Nazarene, 1425 S. Ohio St., Salina, KS. Burial and graveside services will follow at Glenwood Cemetery in Glen Elder, KS, at 2:30 PM on the same day.
Memorial contributions can be made to the First Church of the Nazarene or Tipton Community Foundation.