Kenny Micek, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend to many, passed away on November 13, 2024, at the age of 82. Kenny was born on January 23, 1942, to Victor and Gertrude (Prochazka) Micek and grew up on the family farm 9.5 miles north and 4 miles west of Atwood, Kansas. As the second of five children, he shared his early years with his siblings, Virgil, Virginia (who passed in infancy), Judy, and Joyce.
Kenny attended a one-room schoolhouse, “The Bohemian Center,” near the farm, completing grades one through eight. He later graduated from St. Joseph’s Military Academy in Hays, Kansas, now Thomas More Prep-Marian, and served in the United States Army Reserves. Though he attended Kansas State University, his passion for hands-on work led him to Southeast Community College in Milford, Nebraska, where he studied electronics. After graduation, he turned down a job in Denver, Colorado, and instead chose to return to the family farm to work alongside his father. Kenny was known for his skill with cars and farm equipment, one of his proudest achievements being the building of an award-winning 1923 Model T Roadster, which he built with his close friends, Skip McCain and Glen Haller.
On October 28, 1972, he married Pauline J. Arnold of Colby, Kansas. Together they raised five children—Kimberly, Jacqueline, Jennifer, Matthew, and Simon—creating a family bound by love, laughter, and faith. He worked tirelessly on the farm, providing for his family and setting an example of devotion, integrity, and kindness. Kenny was a man who found joy in life’s simplest pleasures and shared his joy with everyone he met.
In 2007, Kenny and Pauline retired from farming and moved to Atwood, Kansas, where their home became a welcoming place for friends and family gatherings. Kenny continued to be a servant to the community of Atwood. A skilled carpenter, he generously shared his talents and time. During his life he volunteered in countless ways and served on the Rawlins County Hospital Board for many years. As a lifelong member of the Knights of Columbus, Kenny held several key posts, including Grand Knight, District Deputy, and State Warden, serving his Catholic faith with deep commitment.
Kenny’s faith was at the heart of all he did. He was a dedicated parishioner, attending Sts. Cyril & Methodius near the farm, later St. John Nepomucene near Beardsley, and finally, Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Atwood. He served as a lector, Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion, and participated in numerous ministries, living out his faith as a light to others.
In recent years, Kenny found joy in driving the activity bus for Rawlins County Junior-Senior High School, cherishing the opportunity to support local youth and spend time with his grandchildren. His last day was spent doing what he loved—driving students to their activities. After parking the bus one final time, he passed peacefully, having enjoyed his favorite vanilla ice cream.
Kenny was preceded in death by his parents, Victor and Gertrude; his sisters, Virginia and Judy; his granddaughters, Hannah, Sarah, Theresa, and Bella Rose; his grandsons, Alex and Daniel; and his sister-in-law, Barbara. He is survived by his loving wife, Pauline; his children and their spouses—Kimberly Shirley, Jacqueline Hanson (husband Brian), Jennifer Sabatka (husband Kasey), Matthew (wife Melissa), and Simon (wife Kassidi); his brother, Virgil; his sister, Joyce, and her husband, Larry; and 24 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren.
Kenny’s life was a beautiful testament to kindness, faith, and service. His warm spirit, joyful humor, and endless generosity made him a bright light to all who knew him. His legacy lives on through his family, his faith, and the many lives he touched. He will be dearly missed and remembered with love.
