Kenneth Lee Staley, age 75, of Salina, Kansas, passed away after his brave and challenging battle with ALS on the evening of August 24, 2025, at his home with family by his side. He was born on January 3, 1950, in Beloit, Kansas, to Robert Lee Staley and Emma Jeanne Strawn.
Ken never knew a stranger. His kind heart, warmth, humor, and generosity left a lasting impression on everyone he met. He found joy in life’s simple pleasures—fishing for catfish, hunting, riding his motorcycle, collecting coins (earning the nickname “Coin Man”), and traveling with his family. A jack of all trades, Ken was often tinkering in his shop, working on cars, or crafting with wood. Above all, he treasured time with his grandchildren, who were the light of his life.
Ken and Joann met and later married in Marion, Kansas. They moved to Topeka, Kansas City, and later settled in Lawson, Missouri, where they started their family. As their family and opportunity grew, they moved to Ellsworth, Kansas, where both daughters graduated high school. With an empty nest, the couple moved to Salina to be closer to friends, family, and work and have resided there since.
He is survived by his loving wife of 48 years, Joann Lunderman; his daughters Kendra (Robert Dunn) Staley and Megan (Kenneth) Williams; grandchildren, Emma Staley Dunn, Emmit Williams, and Kathryn Williams; siblings, Henry (Sharon) Staley, Barbara (Ken) Nicholas, Russell Staley, Dema (Chuck) Diederich, Dorothy Loghry, Rhonda Charpie, and Cheryl Holt; as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends who will miss him deeply.
Ken was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Emma Jeanne; brothers, Francis and Dwight Staley; sister, Arleta Joan Allen; and his beloved son, Jeremy Staley.
Visitation will be Thursday, August 28, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Ryan Mortuary in Salina, with family present from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. A funeral service will follow on Friday, August 29, at 2:00 p.m., with a reception afterward. There are no graveside services at this time.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family in care of Ryan Mortuary, 137 N 8th St., Salina, KS, 67401