Elmer “Van” Wilkey, 78, of Hutchinson, Kansas. passed away February 13, 2025, at Hospice House, Hutchinson.
He was born April 7, 1946, in Sterling, Kansas, the son of Steven James and Mildred Vogel Wilkey.
Van married the love of his life, Mary Sue on January 22, 1966, in Cherokee, Kansas. They had two children, Stephanie and Scott.
Van was called to serve in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War from 1968 until 1969. Van enjoyed farming and ranching with his dad, he was involved with livestock most of his life in one way or another.
He enjoyed racing cars, rodeos, roping and spending time going on road trips with Mary Sue and the numerous dogs over the years. Van also enjoyed watching the grandkids sporting events.
Van is survived by his two children, Stephanie Kofford and husband Michael of Rock Springs, WY, and Scott Wilkey and wife Tiffany of Sterling, KS; three sisters, Vicki Daise and husband Ron of Osborne, KS, Judy McDowell of Monroe, WA; and Jo McQuinston of Emporia, KS; nine grandchildren; and eleven great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; and wife, Mary Sue Wilkey.
Funeral service will be at 11:00 A.M., Wednesday, February 19, 2025, at Birzer Funeral Home, Sterling, with Pastor Wayne Johnson officiating. Burial will follow at the Sterling Community Cemetery, Sterling, with military honors.
Memorials may be given to Missions Revival or Hospice of Reno County in care of Birzer Funeral Home, Sterling.