Louis “Lou” Laverne Ketron, born August 26, 1943, in Wichita, KS left for his eternal home on July 17, 2025, in Wichita, KS after a battle with liver disease. He was the eighth child of Lewis Albert Ketron and Dorothy Laverna (Miller) Ketron.
Lou was affectionately known as “Pa” to most. His journey on earth was marked with a loyal and hard work ethic, unwavering ability to help anyone with most tasks. He was an electrician by trade, retiring from the local school district after more than 20 years of service. Lou loved working on his property “the farm,” tooling around on his tractor or lawn mower up until a week prior to his departure.
His passing has left a void in the hearts of his family, friends, and many more whose lives were touched by him. We ask that you remember him not for the way his life ended, but for the way it was lived, and for the profound impact it had on the lives of those who had the pleasure of knowing him.
Lou is survived by his dedicated wife of 57 years, Diana Kay (Tiller) Ketron, his son Chris (Kimberly), his daughters Lori/Wally (Shannon) Campbell, and Shana (Don) Padgett; his grandchildren Jacob (Andrea) Campbell, Marissa (Russell) Gardner, Morgan Padgett, Skyler Ketron and Samuel (Adrienne) Ketron; along with his great-grandchildren Vaelin and Autumn Gardner, all local; sister-in-law Bonnie Ketron of Arkansas; and a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins who shared in his spirit.
Additionally, Lou was preceded in death by his siblings Albert, John, Gloria, Lessie, Ramona, Blondie, and Clifford all of whom he had close relations although they were spread across the country. At a young age his family moved to Coeur’d Alene, ID. At the age of 17 Lou enlisted in the Army and served from 1960-1965 in Worms, Germany. When separated from the service he landed back in Wichita, KS where he eventually met his love and friend Diana.
Lou, along with several of his siblings, conducted endless hours of research and were especially proud of their Native American Heritage; he even changed his racial status to Native American. Lou was a “tough” straight shooter only expecting the best from his three children. He was especially proud of Chris being the first Bachelorette graduate from his family. He loved that his youngest daughter Shana, the cosmetologist, was talented and opened her own salon. Lastly, his daughter Wally (Lori), the first to obtain a master’s degree serving as a registered nurse. Lou loved to have a monthly family day where his children, grandchildren, and great children would gather to enjoy each other’s company. He may have been most proud to be a great-grandfather.
The Celebration of Life service to honor the life of Louis Laverne Ketron will be held on July 24, 2025, at 1 p.m. at Hillside Funeral Home, 2929 W. 13th St. N., Wichita, KS. The viewing starts at noon with service beginning at 1 p.m. Graveside services to follow at Kechi Township Cemetery, 6499 N Hillside Ave. Wichita, KS. A reception will follow the service at HAP McLean Park Community Building, 6801 N Hydraulic, Park City, 3-5 p.m.
As one of the greatest Chiefs football fans, Lou will forever wear his red and gold, so we ask that you wear your Chiefs attire or red to the service in his honor.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to your favorite nonprofit in memory of Pa.
Although Lou’s physical presence may no longer grace our lives, his spirit will continue to inspire and uplift us. May his memory be a blessing, and may we carry forth his legacy of love and compassion in all that we do.
