Buddy Ray East

Buddy Ray East, 78, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, December 31, 2025, in Garden Plain, Kansas, surrounded by his loving family and supportive caregivers, following a long battle with chronic illness.

Buddy was born on July 12, 1947, in Anthony, Kansas, to Floydia June (Welch) East and Vivian “Bud” East. He was raised on a farm in Waldron, Kansas, where he developed a lifelong appreciation for hard work, family, and the values of rural life. Buddy attended high school in Hazleton, Kansas, where he met his future wife and the love of his life, Corrine Archuleta. They were married in 1965 and began their life together.

In 1966, Buddy and Corrine moved to Wichita, Kansas, where they raised their three children and built a life rooted in dedication, perseverance, and love. Although Buddy’s heart never left his country upbringing or his longing to return to farm life, he found his passion in the HVAC and heating and air conditioning industry. He was mentored by and worked for his oldest brother before earning his HVAC Master License and starting his own business. He proudly operated that business for 40 years before retiring in 2019.

Buddy was a devoted husband, a loving father, a proud grandfather, and a loyal friend to many. He will be remembered for his kind, gentle, and generous spirit—a legacy that will live on through the many lives he touched and the cherished memories he leaves behind.

Buddy was preceded in death by his wife of 58 years, Corrine (Archuleta) East; his parents, Floydia and Vivian “Bud” East; and his brothers, David and Gerald East.

He is survived by his three children: Cathy Rankin (Dean) of Wichita; Allen David East-Hendryx (the late Patrick Hendryx) of Scottsdale, Arizona; and Suzann Wright (John) of Wichita. He is also survived by his sister, Lura Sue (East) Reeves of Topeka; his brother, Clinton “Clint” East (Becky) of Attica; his grandchildren, Kristin Smet (Corey) of Wichita, Lauren Damman of Wichita, Marie Wilson (Josh) of Wichita, Taylor Bell of Garden Plain and Henry Damman (Samantha) of Wichita; and his much-adored fifteen great-grandchildren.

A Celebration of Life ceremony to honor Buddy will be held at a later date. Family and friends will be notified.

In lieu of flowers, and as a lifelong patriot and strong supporter of the armed forces, the family asks that donations be made in Buddy’s name to his favorite charity, the Wounded Warrior Project.