Kiola Marie Ryks (née Kell), 70, passed away peacefully on September 17, 2024, in Olathe, Kansas. Born on March 2, 1954, in Fort Riley, Kansas, Kiola spent her early years moving around a bit. Some of the places she lived as a child included Aschaffenburg, Germany; Ft Polk, LA; Fort Ord, CA; Baumholder, Germany; Fort Benning, GA and back to Fort Riley, KS. She graduated from Junction City High School in 1972.
Kiola's career was diverse and community-centered, reflecting her multifaceted skills and interests. She held various positions at Kaw and Colonial theaters in Junction City, where her love for the arts was evident. Her meticulous nature shone at McCall Pattern Company in Manhattan, KS, where she worked in pattern cutting. Her technical skills were further applied at Electrowire in Junction City, assembling wiring harnesses, and at Mobile Traveler, also in Junction City, where she crafted cabinets and later managed payroll and accounting. Her career also included roles at the Defense Finance and Accounting Service in Fort Riley, Russell Stovers Chocolates in Abilene, Bell Taxi in Junction City, and finally at Farmer's Insurance in Olathe, KS, where she worked as a claims adjuster.
Kiola was a kind-hearted and gentle soul who always looked for the positive in every situation. Described as sweet and kind, she was fiercely protective of her family, embodying the spirit of a 'mama bear' when it came to their safety. An animal lover at heart, Kiola especially had a soft spot for dogs, loving every one she met. Her warm, loving nature extended beyond her immediate family to her friends and community members.
Kiola is survived by her devoted husband, Larry Ryks; sons, John (Christi) Vickers, Joey Vickers, and Kevin (Krystal) Vickers; stepchildren, David (Carina) Ryks and Mary Ryks; brothers, Dennis (Linda) Taylor and Donald (Vickie) Kell; sisters, Terry (Jeff) Hill and Tami Barnes; brothers-in-law Verlin, Dewey and Kelly Ryks; sister-in-law Janelle Ryks; uncle, Roy Glessner Jr.; 19 grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. She was preceded in death by her parents, Donald E Kell and Betty Jean Kell; daughter, Leslie Fargo; grandson, Liam O'Brien; and numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in Kiola's memory may be made to the American Cancer Society or your local Humane Shelter, honoring her compassionate spirit and her enduring support for those in need. Her legacy of kindness, protection, and love will continue to inspire all who knew her. A visitation will be held on Wednesday, October 16, 2024, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. followed by a graveside service at White City Cemetery in White City, Kansas.