Way Elmer Eikleberry, 80, died unexpectedly June 17, 2023, at his home.  He was born March 8, 1943, in Salina, to Ray Oren and Maude O. (Manon) Eikleberry.

Way graduated from Salina High School and worked as an insurance salesman and at Gregory, Inc.  He was one of a kind with his magnetic personality.  Way enjoyed playing Santa Claus for the holidays and singing with his wife, Becky, all throughout Kansas. Above all, Way's faith and family were his greatest priorities.  Way was a member of Journey@South Hutchinson, where he was known for his "Jesus Joy".  In addition, he loved his family unconditionally, and spread his love to the foster children he and his wife took care of in their home.

On June 5, 1964, he married Rebecca "Becky" Thomas, in Kingman.  They recently celebrated 59 years of marriage.

Way is survived by: Becky; children, Steven Eikleberry, Stacie Chambers (Doug), Shana Eaves (David Hartsfield), Scott Eikleberry (Tiffany), and Bethany Eikleberry; grandchildren, Hannah Chambers, Bryan Eikleberry, Austin Eikleberry (Miranda), Sean Eaves, Sachin Chambers, Connor Eaves, Sarah Eikleberry, Rebekah Chambers, Alex Chambers, Emily Chambers, and Athena Featherby; great-grandchildren, McKenna and Kynzlee Eikleberry and Jesse Featherby; bonus daughter, Ambra Curtis and her children, Izzy and Zayden; sister, Lora Rae McKinness (Bob); and a brother, Jay Eikleberry (Mary).

He was preceded in death by:  his parents; sister, Iva May Cook; and a granddaughter, Cherith Brooke Eaves.

Celebration of Life service will be 11:00 a.m. Thursday, June 22, 2023, at Elliott Chapel, with Pastor Joshua Haver officiating.  Private family inurnment will take place in Fairlawn Burial Park, Hutchinson.  Friends may sign his book from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Wednesday at Elliott Mortuary. The family will greet friends from 10:00 a.m. until service time Thursday at Elliott Mortuary.  Cremation has taken place.

Click here to view Way's Celebration of Life Service.

Memorials are suggested to Mennonite Friendship Communities, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS  67501.