John Lee Fose, a beloved member of WaKeeney, Kansas, peacefully departed from this life, surrounded by loved ones and under the care of Trego County-Lemke Memorial Hospital, on December 20, 2023, at the age of 67.
Born on October 11, 1956, in Longmont, Colorado, to Ralph and Luella (Hay) Fose, John's journey through life was marked by passion, dedication, and a heart full of warmth. His early years were spent in WaKeeney, where he attended school, and he eventually graduated from Trego Community High School in 1975.
John was the workhorse for the Trego Golden Eagle football team, where he earned the honorary name "Fabulous Fose." In 1974, he led the Eagles to a State Championship against Salina Sacred Heart. John went on to earn a scholarship and play football at Dodge City Junior College. Following his studies, John became an integral part of Deines Construction, contributing to the development of Trego, Gove, and Ellis County.
On May 21, 1983, John embarked on a new adventure by marrying the love of his life, Jean (Pfanenstiel) Fose. Together, they lived in WaKeeney, and John established his own business, J and J Contract Pumping, serving the oil fields in Western Kansas.
Wrestling held a special place in John's heart, and for 15 years, he dedicated his time to coaching for the WaKeeney Wrestling Club. His impact extended beyond the mat, as he imparted valuable skills for both wrestling and life to countless young minds.
Car racing was more than a hobby for John—it was a passion. From Hobby Stock to Stock Car and Modified classifications, he left his mark. In 1990, John achieved the pinnacle, becoming a National Champion in the Stock Car Division.
However, amidst the roar of engines and cheers of victory, John's heart belonged to his family. He took immense pride in the accomplishments of his daughters, Nicole (Mike) Kriegshauser of WaKeeney, KS, and Amber (Brandon) Johnson of DeWitt, NE, along with his cherished grandchildren, Ace, Kaden, and Rylee Kriegshauser, Easton Lariviere, and Blakeley Anderson. A true family man, he enjoyed quality time at the lake fishing with his grandkids and his beloved English Bulldog, "Boogie."
John is survived by his loving wife Jean, brothers Jay and Joel Fose, sisters Lorna Nutt, Lisa Fose, and Lana Dinkel. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph and Luella Fose, and brother Jerry Fose.
A memorial service to celebrate John's life will be held on Saturday, December 23, at 10:30 a.m. CST at Schmitt Funeral Home in WaKeeney, Kansas. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to the WaKeeney Wrestling Club. Contributions can be sent to Schmitt Funeral Home at 336 North 12th Street, WaKeeney, KS, 67672.
If attending the memorial service, the family requests that you wear anything racing, wrestling, or football-related. Friends and well-wishers are invited to share their memories and words of support by writing in the guest book, ensuring that John's legacy lives on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.