Kenneth Alvan Beltz

Kenneth Alvan Beltz, of Elk Creek, Missouri was born July 21, 1932 to Leroy and Ruth (Redding) Beltz.  He departed this life on July 20, 2020, one day short of his 88th birthday.

Over his 88 years Kenneth enjoyed three professions, he joined the US Navy in 1952. After finishing his time in the navy, he returned home and met his wife of 62 years, then moved to Kansas City where he worked as a fireman for the Kansas City Fire Department.  After seven years Kenneth convinced Viola it was time to move back to the farm.  The home place was the land he loved raising cattle and a family.

Kenneth was the founding member of the laid back cowboys.  He was a permanent fixture at the local sale barn.  Usually listening more than talking, but always ready to give advice

Kenneth was preceded in death by his parents, Leroy Elmer Beltz and Ruth Pearl (Redding) Beltz; three brothers, JC, LeRoy and George Beltz; and one sister, Geneva June Coats.

Kenneth is survived by his wife, Viola Mae (VanCamp) Beltz of the home; four children, Kenneth John Beltz of Elk Creek, Sheila Mae Long and husband, Scott of Cabool, Rex Alvan Beltz and wife, Cindy of Slater, Rocky Darwin Beltz and Melissa Cunningham of Elk Creek; brother, John Beltz and wife, Jeannie of Willow Springs; brother-in-law, Jim Coats of Mtn. Grove; sister-in-laws, Alda Ruark of Elk Creek, Hazel Dreves of Richman, MO and Caroline VanCamp of Clinton, MO.  

Also surviving are grandchildren, Donald “Joey” Long of Henderson, NV, Shelby Conn and husband, Matt of Seymour, Chaney Redding Beltz and wife, Tara of Vienna, MO, James Davis Beltz and wife, Danielle of Vienna, Caleb James Pemberton and wife, Meg of Cape Girardeau, Reid MacKenzie Long and wife, Katie of Solo, Reagan Mae Long of San Antonio, TX and Carson Andrew Long of Cabool; great grandchildren, Gavin Wayne Conn, Redding Wayne Beltz, Wesson Grandville Long, Grady James Beltz and Holt Robert Beltz; Glenn Beltz his favorite nephew and many other nieces and nephews.  

Interment took place at Clear Springs Cemetery with military honors on July 23, 2020.  Memorial donations may be made to Clear Springs Cemetery Fund.  

Condolences may be expressed at www.yarbermortuary.com.