Thane Kenneth Blakesley, age 77, of Ulysses, Kansas, died Saturday, April 27, 2024, at Western Prairie Senior Living Community in Ulysses. He was born September 5, 1946, in Garden City, Kansas, the son of William Kenton and Iris Lorea (Allmon) Blakesley.
After high school graduation, Thane served in the United States Navy. After his honorable discharge he returned to Ulysses. He married Zetah Verhoeff on March 29, 1984, in Ulysses. Thane was a welder, worked for the Kansas State Highway Department, and retired from the City of Ulysses as a truck driver. He enjoyed watching rodeos and old western movies and television shows. Over the years, Thane and Zetah always had Boston Terrier Bulldogs.
Thane is survived by his daughter, Iris Schwindt and husband Kim of Ulysses; sister, Judy Clifft of Stuart, Oklahoma; three grandsons, Kenneth Schwindt and wife, Stephanie, Kody Schwindt and wife, Laci, and Aaron Schwindt and wife, Celine; eight great-grandchildren, Tori, Keean, Konnor, Mason, Oakley, Sonny, Killan, and Eislee; and many nieces and nephews.
Thane is preceded in death by his father, William K. Blakesley; mother, Iris L. Brollier; wife, Zetah Blakesley; brothers, Robert and Keith Blakesley; and sister, Eunice Comer.
A private family graveside, with military honors, will be held at a later date at the Ulysses Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be given to the Ulysses Animal Shelter in care of Garnand Funeral Home, 405 W. Grant Ave, Ulysses, KS 67880. Condolences may be posted at www.garnandfuneralhomes.com.