Gilford C. Hale, 78 years of age, of Concordia, passed away Sunday, October 4, 2026, surrounded by his family, peacefully at his home in Concordia.
He was born on May 22, 1948, in Concordia, Kansas, to James and Rosie (Jewell) Hale.
Gilford graduated from Concordia High School in the Class of 1968. He went on to graduate from NCK AVTS Beloit Campus, with a Diesel Mechanic Degree.
Gilford served in the United States Army from 1969 until 1971 and was stationed in California and Germany. He was a Tank Mechanic while in the Army. He was honorably discharged.
He married Juanita Barajas on April 7, 1969, at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church in Concordia, Kansas. To this union two children were born, Valerie and John.
He was a member of American Legion Post #76 of Concordia.
Gilford retired in 2010 from Cloud County Road & Bridge Department as a diesel mechanic, where he worked for 15 years. Prior to that Gilford worked as a diesel mechanic for Boogaarts Scrivner for 40 years as a diesel mechanic. Gilford also was a reserve firefighter for the Concordia Fire Department.
He enjoyed fishing, playing cards, crafts, woodworking, gardening, cooking, and working on all sorts of vehicles and doing small engine repairs. He was an avid KC Chiefs and Kansas City Royals fan, always cheering them on to victory. Most of all, he loved spending time with his beloved family and friends, especially his pet dogs Maddie and Ollie.
Gilford is survived by his daughter, Valerie (Roger) Hamilton of Scandia, KS; a son, John Hale (Christine Ward) of Concordia, KS; several nieces, nephews and cousins; three sisters-in-law, Vicky Waggoner (Les), Salina, KS; Teresa Winter (Casey), Great Bend, KS; Christina Crump, Concordia, KS.
He was preceded in death by his wife Juanita and parents James and Rosie, a sister Geraldine Bunch, and two brothers Theodore Hale and George Hale.
Visitation will be held on Sunday from 4-6 p.m., October 11, 2026, at the Chaput-Buoy Funeral Home, Concordia, Kansas.
A Graveside Celebration of Life Service will be held on Monday, October 12, 2026, at 10:00 a.m., in the St. Concordia Catholic Cemetery, Concordia, Kansas, with Jason Grogan as the Celebrant.
Military Honors will be provided by the local Concordia American Legion Post #76 and Ft. Riley Big Red One. Immediately following the graveside service, the family has invited everyone back the American Legion where a luncheon will be served with continued fellowship.
The family suggests memorials be made to Gentiva Hospice in care of Chaput-Buoy Funeral Home, PO Box 606, Concordia, KS 66901. For online condolences please visit www.chaputbuoy.com.
