Roy Draper

Roy Dean Draper was born July 14th, 1939 in Smith Center, KS, the youngest son of Clyde W. Draper and Velma L. (Nonamaker) Draper. He passed away on April 6th, 2021 at the Rawlins County Health Center in Atwood, KS.

Roy grew up on the family farm south of Kensington, KS. He spent most of his summers working for relatives on their farms in the area. This developed a strong work ethic. He graduated from Kensington High School in 1957. When he was 19, he was hired “right off the tractor” by the Kansas Department of Transportation. He spent the next 44 years with KDOT until he retired in 2003. His work led him and the family to live in Phillipsburg, Norton, Goodland, and finally Atwood.

Roy married Mary (Plymesser) Draper March 18th, 1960 in Phillipsburg, KS. To this union three children were born, Laurie (Steve) Kastens of Rawlins County, Linda (Joe Samson) Wright of Atwood, Jason (Rubylee) Draper of WaKeeney, 9 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren. Roy and Mary were married for 58 years. Their love was a great example for their family.

Roy was preceded in death by his parents Clyde and Velma Draper, an infant sister Valta Jean Draper, brother-in-law Francis Hoffman, brother-in-law Gary Plymesser, sister-in-law Sandra Plymesser, and his beloved wife Mary Draper.

He is survived by his children, brother Donald (Marilyn) Draper of Elizabeth, CO and sister Ellen Hoffman of Lincoln, NE.

Roy had many hobbies and passions throughout his life. He loved athletics regardless of which sport or kids were playing. He enjoyed camping and relaxing at the lake with Mary. After Mary passed in 2018, he started attending Country music dances. He appreciated the old-style music and new friends he made including Sally Hudson, who became a dear friend and dance partner.

There will be a viewing at Baalmann Mortuary, Atwood, on Thursday, April 8, 2021, from 5-7 p.m. The funeral service will be at the United Methodist Church, in Atwood, Friday, April 9, at 10:00 a.m., with interment in Fairview Cemetery, Atwood. Memorials are suggested to the USD 105 Athletic Department or the organization of the Donor’s choice and may be sent in care of Baalmann Mortuary, PO Box 391, Colby, KS 67701. For information or condolences visit www.baalmannmortuary.com