RUSSELL — Michael Glenn Folkerts, 55, passed away Sept. 18, 2023, at Hays Medical Center in Hays, Kan. He was born Oct. 25, 1967, in Larned, to Glenn and Derinda (Murphy) Folkerts. 

A longtime Great Bend resident, growing up on a farm near Timken, Mike worked in the manufacturing industry for many years, specifically in quality control for GBI. However, he recently discovered and embraced his career passion as a paraprofessional for USD 407 in Russell. Mike was known to have a spirited love for all things related to nature, spending any spare time he had at Lake Wilson, Cheyenne Bottoms, Quivira Refuge, and Rowe Sanctuary in Gibbon, Neb. He was an avid photographer, being able to capture the perfect sunset and any rare bird or wildlife that would happen by. Mike also had a keen interest in most sports, but had a life long enthusiasm for the Dallas Cowboys. Above all, Mike cherished time spent with his family and friends.

Survivors include his parents, Glenn and Derinda Folkerts of Great Bend; two daughters, Kyleene Folkerts of Great Bend and Alexis Folkerts of Hays; a sister, Lori Kohls of Great Bend; and nephew Jayce Kohls of Great Bend.

Friends may sign the register book from 4 to 8 p.m., Sunday, Sept. 24, 2023, with family to receive friends from 5 to 7 p.m. Memorial service will be held at 10:30 a.m., Monday, Sept. 25, 2023, at Heartland Community Church, Great Bend, with Pastor Troy Miller presiding. Inurnment will be in the Great Bend Cemetery North. Memorials have been designated to the Fort Hays Foundation to benefit the Kansas Wetlands Education Center at Cheyenne Bottoms, in care of Bryant Funeral Home. Condolences may be sent and notice viewed at www.bryantfh.net

Funeral arrangements provided by

Bryant Funeral Home

1425 Patton Road

Great Bend, KS.  67530

Great Bend (Kan.) Tribune, Sept. 21, 2023