Eldon Kadel

Eldon Ray Kadel, 89, passed away October 23, 2019 at M.C. Hospital, Beloit Kansas.  He was born March 1, 1930, on a farm at Hunter, Kansas to Elmer and Lizzie (Cordwell) Kadel.  He attended Lincoln schools and was a 1948 graduate of Lincoln H.S where he played football, basketball and track.  He enlisted in the Army and proudly served in the Korean War. Following his honorable discharge, he attended Emporia State University where he graduated with a degree in education followed by his masters degree. Eldon taught in Greenleaf, KS prior to moving to Beloit in 1959 where he taught at the Beloit High School, the NCK Vocational Technical School, finishing his career at the Beloit Youth Center in 1990.

On August 9, 1953 at Simpson, Ks., Eldon married Arlene Vernon, and she survives at the home.  Arlene and Eldon were privileged to celebrate their 65th wedding Anniversary in 2018. They were the parents of Michael Kadel (Mary) of Independence, Ks., Patricia Smith (David), Susan Newell (Shawn) of Mankato, Ks., Sharon Eck (Doug) of Beloit, Ks., and Kelly Kadel (Jeannette) of New London, IA.  He is also survived by his brother Jesse of Boulder, CO., 17 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren and his church family. Eldon was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Everett and Delmer, and daughter Patricia.

Eldon was an avid sportsman enjoying both hunting and fishing. He also enjoyed singing and performing with Arlene and her brothers, and was especially fond of playing his banjo ukulele, harmonica and musical saw for various community organizations and nursing homes. He was renowned for his gardening skills and supplied his family and friends with an abundance of produce every year. One of his greatest loves was following his grandchildren and great-grandchildren's activities and was a source of encouragement for them and their achievements. He especially looked forward to his daily coffee group which convened every morning at Gray Drug and Fountain. An active member of the VFW, Eldon was honor guard participant and helped judge the annual essay contest. He also served on the Silver Haired Legislature, KNEA and was a board member of the Area Agency on Aging for many years.

A celebration of life will be held October 28, at 11:00 a.m. at the First Presbyterian Church in Beloit.  Cremation was chosen so there will be no visitation. Memorials may be given to the Presbyterian church or Solomon Valley Hospice of Beloit.