Ray Eldon Staats
March 25, 1940 ~ August 11, 2021
Ray Eldon Staats, a long-time resident of Wichita, KS died at his home on Wednesday, August 11, 2021.
Born on March 25, 1940 in Pratt, KS, he was a respected and beloved member of the Wichita community. He dedicated his life to helping children through sports programs and education. He was a veteran who served our country with honor. He was a loving husband, a supportive father, and a cherished grandfather.
He joins his wife, Opal, in God’s garden. He leaves his son, Sean, and grandsons, Connor and Cameron; his son, Karl, and wife, Rose, and granddaughter, Kevalin; his son, Rion, and wife, Samantha; his son, Noel, and fiancée, Heather.
Visitation will be from 6:00 - 8:00 pm, Monday, August 16, 2021, at Downing and Lahey West Mortuary, 10515 W. Maple, Wichita, KS. Funeral services will be at 10:00 am, Tuesday, August 17, 2021, at Aldersgate United Methodist Church, 7901 W. 21st Street North, Wichita, KS. Ray will be interred in Bucklin, KS.
A memorial has been established with Wichita State University Foundation, 1845 Fairmount St., Wichita, KS 67260.
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Jackie and I are saddened to hear of Ray’s passing. He had a quiet strength about him that we admired. His love for his family was obvious. He will be missed. Mike & Jackie
Ray was a wonderful mentor and coach to many young boys. We loved playing for him. He will be missed, my condolences to all of his family. Jed Bond
Rest Ray, until you hear at dawn, the low, clear reveille of God. Thank you for your service to this nation. U.S. Army.
I am so sorry for the loss of your dad. Now he has gone to rest with your sweet mother Opal. They were two great people. When ever I ever talked to your mom she loved to brag about her family. She was a very special person, who I loved to work with. Your mom and dad were blessed to have you. You were blessed to have them as well.. My heart is with you at this sorrowful time. May God bless you and comfort you all.
I always enjoyed Ray’s visits to the store as he worked on the rentals. He shared his great advice with me, I referred to him as a mentor or mine. He also shared his interest in the Shocker basketball team. I was wondering why I had not seen him lately, and a co-worker shared this sad news. Debbie the cashier