VAN ROYEN, Russell E. - b. November 2, 1939 - d. May 29, 2026

[patyrn]

Russell E. VanRoyen was born on November 2, 1939 in Howard, Kansas, the son of Earnest and Laura (Ferrty) VanRoyen.  He passed away on May 29, 2026 at Ascension Via Christi Harry Hynes Hospice in Wichita, Kansas. 

Russell lived a life marked by hard work and a strong dedication to his family.  He graduated from Severy High School in Severy, Kansas in the Class of 1957.  He spent 27 1/2 years working as a Leadman with Martin-Marietta rock quarry.  Beyond his career, he had a passion for locksmithing and making keys.  He also enjoyed playing cards and reading western novels, especially those written by William W. Johnstone.

On June 9, 1978, Russell married the love of his life, Barbara Corle.  To this union was born one son, Dereck.

Russell is survived by his wife, Barbara A. VanRoyen and his children, Ruby "Cathy" (David) Lanning of Cherryvale, Kansas, Russell VanRoyen II of Cherryvale, Kansas, Brent W. VanRoyen of Cherryvale, Kansas; Berkely S. (Tracey) of Jenkinsburg, Georgia, John E. VanRoyen OF Burden, Kansas, Dereck P VanRoyen of Kansas City, Daniel W. (Mandy) Cranford of Cherryvale, Kansas, and David V. (Jennifer) Cranford of Gulf Breeze, Florida.  His sister is Rita M. Lee of Burrton, Kansas and his sister-in-in-law is Margaret VanRoyen of Prague, Oklahoma.  He was also a cherished grandfather to Marcus Lanning, Lucus Lanning, Jacob VanRoyen, Cori Eddington, Amber Nicole VanRoyen, Lindsey Dupree, Haley Rivers, Britney VanRoyen, Asia Hogan, Nathan Cranford, Audrey Cranford, Vanessa Cranford, Jonathan Cranford, and Chelsea Cranford.  He took great pride in his role as a great-grandfather to twelve great-grandchildren.  Russell was preceded in death by his parents, Earnest and Laura VanRoyen and his siblings, Kenneth VanRoyen, Jim VanRoyen, Lola King, and Neva Walter.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, June 12, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at Wickham Family Funeral Home and Cremation Service at 216 E. 4th Street in Cherryvale, Kansas.  His life was one of commitment, both to his work and to those he loved.  He will be deeply missed by his family and all who knew him.

(taken from the Wickham Family Funeral Home website)