Alfred L. 'Al' Blocher, 93, passed away on March 16, 2024 in Newton, Kansas. He was born July 4, 1930 in Alexander, Kansas to Fred and Hannah (Wittig) Blocher. After graduating from Alexander High School, he served 2 years during the Korean War in the Army stationed in Japan. When his service was complete, he returned to the states and traveled to Colorado to attend telegraphy training where he met the love of his life, Floris Davis. They were married in 1954. They welcomed two sons and a daughter to this union. After joining the Missouri Pacific Railroad, he was stationed in several different locations across the US before settling in the Wichita area. He retired in 1991 after more than 30 years.
Al was an avid outdoor guy, enjoying fishing and hunting. As his children grew up and discovered the joy of cars, racing began to take a front row seat in his life. He could be found in the stands at 81 Speedway and the Hutchinson State Fair grandstands cheering on his favorite drivers. Sunday afternoons he could be found watching NASCAR on the tv. In his retirement years, he found real purpose in volunteering for the Red Cross, driving around the state for more than 15 years and logging a innumerable number of miles. He was proud to go on an Honor Flight escorted by his daughter, Lynette, who is also a veteran. He was a proud Mason and member of Eastern Star. He served the Grand Chapter in various roles throughout the years while also serving as Worthy Patron at least six times in his local chapters. He was currently serving Valley Center at the time of his death.
He was preceded in death by his parents, sisters, Cora Lee Filbert and Joann Ebert and brother, Gary Blocher.
Al is survived by his wife of nearly 70 years, Floris, sons, Kenneth Blocher of Wichita, KS, David (Catherine) Blocher of Newton, KS, and daughter, Lynette (Scott) Lewis of O’Fallon, MO, 4 grandchildren, and 5 great-grandchildren, sister, Beverly (Hank) Gabel of Montgomery, Al, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
Service will be held Friday, April 5 at 11:00 am at First United Methodist Church in Valley Center. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be designated in his name to Valley Center OES and mailed to 2115 Sherwood Ave, Newton KS 67114 or Good Shepherd Hospice.
Baker Funeral Home Valley Center is handling arrangements.
Condolences may be left for the family at www.bakerfhvc.com.