Dewey Lee Claypole

Dewey Lee Claypole, a long-time resident of Wellington, Kansas, passed away on October 1, 2024, at the age of 84. Dewey was born on November 20, 1939, in Caldwell, Kansas. He was a dedicated and hardworking man. Dewey married his beloved wife, Shirley Nigh, on November 18, 1966, and they shared many cherished years together until her passing in 2012.
Dewey served in the United States Army from March 1963 to February 1965. During his time, he was stationed in Europe for more than a year and achieved the rank of sharpshooter due to his exceptional marksmanship skills. Professionally, Dewey retired from Learjet in 2001 after a career as an aircraft machinist. Following his retirement from Learjet, Dewey continued to serve his community by working as a road grader for various townships in Sumner County from 2001 to 2018.
Dewey is survived by his step-sons Larry Janney, Cecil Janney, Tom Janney, and Steve (Kim) Janney. He leaves behind his grandchildren Shelley Janney, Shawn Janney, Dane (Ashley) Janney, Christine (Lance) Bacon, Tyler Janney, Levi Janney (Sydney), Natasha Gurley, Kayla Janney, Nicholas (Paige) Janney, as well as 18 cherished great-grandchildren. Dewey is also survived by his nieces, Virginia Green and Pam Wolfe, his sister-in-law, Carolyn Claypole, and several other family members and friends. Dewey was preceded in death by his parents, George and Opal (Work) Claypole, his wife Shirley J. (Nigh) Claypole, his brother Donald L. Claypole, his sister Roberta D. Claypole, and his daughter-in-law, Janet Janney.
A graveside memorial service for Dewey will take place on Monday, October 7, 2024, at 10:00am at Prairie Lawn Cemetery, 1422 E Harvey Ave, Wellington, Kansas, 67152. Cremation has taken place and there will be no visitation.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be given in his name to the Avenue of Flags, PO Box 245, Wellington, Kansas, 67152. Contributions can be mailed or left with the funeral home.
Dewey will be remembered for his hard work and dedication to his community. We invite you to share a memory, leave condolences, or sign his digital tribute wall at www.cornejofuneralhome.com. Arrangements by Cornejo Funeral Home + Crematory, Wellington, Kansas. Your stories and photos are a testament to Dewey's life and will be cherished by his family.