Keith A. Wetzel, 76, of Hutchinson, passed after a courageous battle against an unyielding illness at Hutchinson Regional Medical Center. He was born May 30, 1945, in Parkville, Missouri, to George and Tena Wetzel.
Keith married Maribell S. Chiles on March 30, 1985. His love for family was obvious to everyone who knew him. Keith would say God’s greatest blessing to him was his son, Reed, and granddaughters, Amity and Isla.
Keith graduated from Hutchinson High School in 1963, and attended Hutchinson Community College and Wichita State University. He enlisted in the Army Reserves and was an MP in the 346th Military Police Company for those years enlisted.
Keith started his retailing career working for Calhouns in Wichita. He also worked for Klines and Sheplers, furthering his career in men’s clothing. Keith was part-owner of Havners, where he excelled in buying and selling men’s fine clothing. In addition, he and his father were partners in T & G Investments for twenty years. During that time, they invested in local real estate and stock.
Keith had a love for cars before he could even drive. During his lifetime, he enjoyed owning many classic cars, which he refurbished and entered into various car shows. Keith’s favorite car was a 1958 Impala that placed in many local car shows. He enjoyed meeting and discussing the finer points of not only his own cars but those of others.
Keith enjoyed golf, playing cards, and the comradery of his friends as a member of Prairie Dunes Country Club. He was a member of Emanuel Lutheran Church, where Keith attended as a child and rejoined when returning to Hutchinson.
Keith was also a Boy Scout leader for many years. He loved camping and helping boys earn a variety of merit badges. Keith and his son, Reed shared many fond memories participating in summer camps, weekend outings, and learning different skills.
Keith is survived by: his wife of 37 years, Maribell of Hutchinson; son, Reed Allen Wetzel, and wife, Danielle; two granddaughters, Amity Marie and Isla Sue, all of Wichita, Kansas; and a sister, Dr. Linda Erickson of Hutchinson.
He was preceded by his parents, George and Tena Wetzel.
Funeral service will be 11:00 a.m. Monday, December 5, 2022, at Emanuel Lutheran Church, 140 E. 30th Avenue, with Pastor Del Strecker officiating. Burial will follow in Fairlawn Burial Park, Hutchinson, with military honors conducted by the Kansas Army National Guard. Friends may call from 1:00 to 8:00 p.m. Sunday at Elliott Mortuary.
In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be given to the Hutchinson Animal Shelter or Emanuel Lutheran Church, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.