Galen Gwynn Hughbanks

Galen Gwynn Hughbanks, age 88 of Anthony, Kansas, passed away Sunday, April 19, 2020. He was born on November 19, 1931, the third child of James Frank and Vivian Esther (Hunt) Hughbanks of rural Crisfield, Kansas, in western Harper County, Galen experienced the Great Depression and Dust Bowl during his childhood years. Schooling began at Alfalfa Valley and later Camp Creek, which was located on the same section as his grandparents' farm. Highlights included plays, track and baseball.

Chores took up much of the youngsters' time and energy, and from a young age they were milking twice a day. As a graduate of Attica High School Class of '49, athletics were a highlight and the teams enjoyed great successes. He enjoyed attending the AHS annual reunion.

Working after graduation he built fence near Sharon, Kansas, helped build the Anthony Farmer's Coop north elevator then enrolled at Southwestern College.

As the Korean Conflict loomed, he enlisted in the United States Navy and, upon completion of boot camp at San Diego, was assigned to the Navy Transport Branch at Moffett Field VR 25 near Mountain View, California. Galen served in the South Pacific during nuclear testing, then again served stateside until being honorably discharged as a yeoman first class.

Educational achievements included a bachelor's degree from Kansas State University, master's degree from Colorado State University and post-graduate work at Oklahoma State University. Galen's teaching and coaching career began in Boulder, Colorado, continuing in Sharon and Harper Kansas and as administrative outreach coordinator with Pratt Community College.

In 1953, Galen was united in marriage to Joy LaNell Bates in Mountain View, California. She passed in 1954.

In 1958, Galen and Bonnie Jo Anne Hutchison were united in marriage at Nunn, Colorado. The Galen Hughbanks family farm near Anthony began in 1962 when they purchased their home where he lived until his passing. A lifelong student of the Bible, Galen faithfully guided his family and others, enjoying many friendships centered around church communities.

Galen was preceded in death by his siblings; Monroe Hughbanks, Beverly Hurley, Roger Hughbanks, Fineas Hughbanks.

Galen is survived by his wife, Bonnie of the home; sons Scott Hughbanks (of Anthony, Kansas) and Kyle (Trina) Hughbanks (of Alva), daughters Linda (William) Kroupa (of Lincolnville, Kansas) and Janell (Russell) Pollom (of Spring Hill, Kansas); grandchildren Clark and Raleigh Kroupa; Jessica, Sam and Wyatt Pollom; Ridge, Sabrina and Savannah Hughbanks. Also surviving are siblings James (Donna) Hughbanks (Denton, Texas), Harold (Gerry) Hughbanks (Attica, Kansas), Karen (Dave) Smith (Hedville, Kansas), Sandra (Bob) Kurt (Rose Hill, Kansas), Tipton (Anita) Hughbanks (Attica, Kansas), Teresa (Jerry) Whitney (Enid) and extended family and friends.

A private family burial will be held at Forest Park Cemetery. Friends and family may sign the registry either at the funeral home or online at http://www.eldrighofffuneralhome.com.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Hopewell Presbyterian Church, Friendship Meals or Cal Farley's Boys Ranch of Amarillo, Texas, in care of the funeral home at 115 S. Bluff Avenue, Anthony, Kansas 67003.

The Hughbanks family has entrusted the care of Galen to the Eldringhoff Funeral Home of Anthony.