Kenneth Max Roper

Kenneth Max Roper, age 83, passed away on August 13, 2026. Upon his passing he was surrounded by Glenna, Kathy, Sheila and Sophia. Succumbed to lung cancer after a 7 month battle, together again with the loved ones that went before him. Ken was born February 10, 1943 in Ashland, Nebraska to Harry and Frances (Owens) Roper.

Ken was a kind, loving and helpful man who never met a stranger. He was always there to lend a hand or advice when needed. He was known as "Corky" by family and friends. He married Lois I. Roper on August 22, 1971 until her passing on October 22, 2015. On January 27, 2018 he married Ann (Ocker) Roper and they were together until his passing.

He was a member of First Wesleyan for several years. Pastor Mark Hamel was adored by Lois and Ken as well as many others.

In his earlier years he enjoyed hunting with family members and friends. His past times included building RC Airplanes, NASCAR, watching his favorite football team, The Washington Redskins (he slept through most games). In his elder years he was shooting pool with friends at the senior center more regularly.

In his late 20's he was a sewing machine mechanic for many years in Chanute, Kansas. He tried truck driving for a short time and decided that wasn't for him. He worked at Coleman for several years in Wichita until he was laid off. He always said he was a "jack of all trades, but a master at none". He started his own business in construction until retirement and then he dabbled a little to keep busy.

He is predeceased by his son, Gary Baucom; his grandson, DJ Epperson III; his parents, Harry and Frances Roper; his siblings, Edward Frank and Verna Mae "Joy" (Roper) Ardery.

Ken is survived by his daughters: Lisa Epperson (son-in-law Don Epperson II), Glenna Woodard, Kathryn Love-Hoffman, Sheila Dooley and Mary Mitchell (son-in-law Curtis Mitchell); his sons: Stacey Roper, Larry Baucom and Steve Ocker (daughter-in-law Maria); his 26 grandchildren; many great and great-great-grandchildren; his niece, Roxanne Hiner and her family; his nephew, Robert Ardery and his family.

Visitation will be held at Resthaven Mortuary, 11800 West Highway 54, Wichita, KS 67209, on August 20, 2026, from 9:00 am to 10:00 am. The Funeral Service will follow at Resthaven Mortuary on August 20, 2026, beginning at 10:00 am. A Committal Service will take place at Resthaven Gardens of Memory, 11800 West Highway 54, Wichita, KS 67209 in the Garden of Gospels on August 20, 2026, following the funeral service.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospitals.