Kenneth A. Dekat USAF Lt. Col. Ret.

Col Dekat was born November 8, 1945 in Sabetha Kansas to Emmanuel and Ann Dekat.

He graduated from Kansas State University in 1967 and was a distinguished AFROTC graduate with a B.S. in History and Political Science. In 1970, he received his Juris Doctor from the Saint Louis University School of Law. That same year, he was ordered to active duty as a captain in the Judge Advocate General's Department.

Over his 28 years of service, he served at George AFB, CA; Howard AFB, Canal Zone, Republic of Panama, Scott AFB, IL; Ellsworth AFB, SD; the Office of the Staff Judge Advocate, Headquarters Air Force Manpower and Personnel Center, Randolph AFB, TX, and the General Law Division, Office of the Judge Advocate General, Washington DC; then returning and retiring from the Air Force Military Personnel Center as chief, military personnel law.

His decorations include the Air Force Meritorious Service Medal with three oak leaf clusters, the Air Force Commendation Medal with one oak leaf cluster, and the National Defense Service Ribbon.

He married Rufina B. Rojas in June 1976, and was a beloved and devoted husband for 27 years. He was a wonderful and dedicated father with wisdom and patience for his sons. Col Dekat dedicated his life to his family, his country and to God.

After retiring, he chose to continue to serve his country by counseling the country's veterans. He always made himself available to anyone who had a need.

His father, Emmanuel Dekat, preceded him in death.

He is survived by his wife, Rufina; sons, Guillermo S. Dekat of Anchorage, and Daniel A. Dekat of Dallas; and mother, Ann Dekat.

The family would like to extend their gratitude to friends, Gary and Rita Pasierb and physician, Dr. Gary Schwartz.