GALATIA — Benjamin Anthony Kolas, Jr., 82, passed away July 31, 2025, surrounded by family at his home in Galatia, Kan. He was born on Feb. 4, 1943, in Elizabeth, New Jersey, to Benjamin Sr. and Edithe (Knott) Kolas. On March 23, 1963, he married Raylene Dee Grindstaff in Inglewood, Calif. She passed on Oct. 4, 2012.

An area resident since the mid-1980s, Benjamin operated water control for the City of Hoisington Water Plant. Prior to that, he proudly served his country for 27 years in the United States Navy. He was a former member of the Hoisington VFW and American Legion Post 286. Benjamin enjoyed hunting, fishing, boating, and was known for his orneriness. He cherished time spent with family, especially his grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Survivors include two daughters, Raylene Guertin of Galatia, and Toni Scott and husband Daniel Jr. of Otis; four grandchildren, Benjamin Lee Matthew Kolas, Robert Hersel Kolas, Justin Miles Scott, and Daniel Lee Scott, III; eight great grandchildren, Maddie Kolas, Jaylin Kolas, Bentley Kolas, Libby Kolas, Connor Scott, Raylene Kolas, Zidra Kolas, and Erza Scott; brother, Richard Kolas of South Carolina; three nephews, Ricky Kolas, Kevin Kolas, and Bobby Kolas; and numerous loved ones. He is preceded in death by his wife; parents; and brother, Robert Kolas.

Cremation has taken place. Visitation will be held on Friday, Aug. 15, 2025, from noon to 8 p.m., with family receiving guests from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., and military honors presented by the United States Navy Honor Guard at 6 p.m., all at Nicholson-Ricke Funeral Home. Memorials have been designated to Wounded Warrior Project, in care of Nicholson-Ricke Funeral Home, PO Box 146, Hoisington, KS 67544. Condolences may be sent and notice viewed at www.nicholsonrickefh.net.

Funeral arrangements provided by

Nicholson-Ricke  Funeral Home

P.O. Box 146

Hoisington, KS 67544

Great Bend (Kan.) Tribune, Aug. 2, 2025