Kenneth G. Schlup Sr.

Kenneth G. Schlup Sr. 90, died January 19, 2022 at his Newton residence.  He was born April 8, 1931 in Newton, Kansas to Frank and Mary L. (Hand) Schlup. On June 10, 1953 he married Mary L. Koehn at Newton and she survives of the home.

He was a 1951 graduate of Newton High School and earned a bachelor’s degree from Pittsburg State University in 1958.  Kenneth was an outstanding basketball player. He played in state title games in 1949, 1950, and 1951 and was a state champion in 1949.  He also played basketball for Wichita State University, Dodge City Community College and the United States Army Team in Germany. Kenneth faithfully served his county in the United States Army from 1953 to 1955 in Germany.

He started his working career at Newton High School teaching physical education and also coaching varsity boys’ basketball.  While at NHS Kenneth’s face was the model for the was  “Railerman” logo which was drawn by an NHS student in 1968..  He is a member of NHS Athletic Hall of Fame both as a player and coach.

When not playing basketball Kenneth enjoyed swimming at the Newton Municipal Pool.  He worked at the pool from junior high thru high school. He later became the manager of the pool.    He was a strong swimmer and diver saving at least two drowning victims and he met his wife at the pool having to save her from the distress of the deep end.

Serving the public was a constant in Kenneth’s life. Not only teaching but working as the Activities Director of the “new” Newton Community Activity Center in 1974. After leaving that job he continued serving by working for Harvey County as the manager of Parks and Recreation, Landfill and the Road and Bridge Department.

In his retirement he spent time with his wife Mary, daughter Bobbye and son Ken Jr. His family was the center of his universe until his last day on earth.  He also enjoyed spending time tinkering his shop and working in the yard.

He is survived by his wife Mary of the home; son Kenneth (Nancy Ice) Schlup; daughter Bobbye Lynne Schlup and sisters Dorothy Williams and Francis Schmidt.  He is also survived by 2 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren.

Kenneth is preceded in death by his Parents, brother L.K. Red Schlup and sister Kathlene Powel.

Private family interment will be Greenwood Cemetery Newton, Kansas.  A public celebration of Kenneth’s life will be scheduled at a later date.

Memorials may be made to Good Shepherd Hospice and left with Petersen Funeral Home.