Galen Jay Graff

On January 28, 1941, Galen Jay Graff was born to his proud parents, Gail and Eva Graff in Coldwater, Kansas. Galen attended Southside Grade School in Kinsley, Kansas where his father was principal and teacher. After completing his high school education at Kinsley High School, he attended Emporia State Teachers College where he received a double major in math and science. He accepted a teaching position at Kinsley High School teaching algebra, chemistry and physics. When Kinsley unified with Offerle School system, he taught junior high math and coached junior high girls' basketball, was track coach and helped coach the wrestling team. Along with teaching career he helped his dad farm. They grew dry land wheat and alfalfa with old machinery that also kept Galen busy repairing. Galen also helped two aunts with their farming. He retired from teaching after teaching for 31 years. He continued farming until a few years ago.

On June 10, 1962, Galen married Rosetta Nystrom at the Kinsley Methodist Church. They had three children.

Galen enjoyed working on the farm, talking and joking with his friends, watching the junior high and high school sporting events and attending as many events as possible.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Eva and Gail, and a son, Michel Jay. He is survived by his wife, Rosetta, daughter Miriam, son, David and cousins, nieces and nephews, two sisters and one brother.

A private service was held on Monday, April 29, 2024. A celebration of Galen's life will be at a later date.

Memorials may be given to USD#347 athletic department of the Edwards County Historical Society in care of McKillip Memorial Funeral Home, Kinsley.