Gerald Ray Facklam

Gerald Ray "Gerry" Facklam, passed away at home in Great Bend, Kansas, on September 18, 2025, at the age of 88. He was born September 4, 1937, in Emporia, Kansas, the son of Alice and Orville Facklam. He graduated with the Class of 1955 from Emporia High School and received his bachelor's degree in 1959, then later his master's degree from Emporia State University.

Mr. Facklam taught vocal music for most of his career, first in Protection, then Oakley, and finally in Great Bend, all in Kansas. Following his retirement from teaching music in 1980, he taught 5th and 6th grade at Lincoln Grade School in Great Bend.

Gerry married the love of his life, Edna Ortega, on June 20, 1959, in her hometown of Chimayo, New Mexico. Edna cared for him to his final day, never leaving his side.

Gerald was a member of Trinity United Methodist Church in Great Bend and served as choir director for many years.

Gerald enjoyed many interests through the years. He turned a barren land near Cheyenne Bottoms into an oasis, full of flower gardens, private sitting areas, and water features. He created a setting enjoyed by so many at family and friend gatherings and weddings. Gerry was active in community theater, playing lead parts in several productions. He also shared his singing talents with others at weddings and community events. He once MC'd a Miss Kansas pageant.

Gerald's favorite place was anywhere he found himself on horseback riding through the Kansas prairies. He served as president of the Great Bend Saddle Club for several years and enjoyed leading trail rides through and around local hills and lakes. You would see him leading the club in community parades, oftentimes in costume for the occasion.

He was an avid reader and especially enjoyed books on American history. He was a docent at Las Golondrinas, a living history museum of early Spanish life in Santa Fe, New Mexico. He loved experiencing other cultures around the world, traveling to Europe, Belize, and Peru where he walked the stone paths of Machu Picchu.

Survivors include Edna, his wife of 66 years; his children, Gina Eldridge and husband Pat Eldridge, Brian Facklam (wife Erin who precedes in death), and his recently adopted daughter Alisa Orosco, her husband Joe, and their family; four grandchildren, Devin Eldridge, Taaron Deschner, Kaden Benker, and Elijah Facklam; two step-grandchildren, Rachael Castle and Spencer Johnson; nine great-grandchildren; brother, Jimmie Facklam and wife Ruthie; sister Margaret Mai and husband John; sister-in-law Diana Ortega; and numerous nieces and nephews. Preceding him in death was his faithful canine companion of 20 years, Doobie.

The family would like to thank all of Gerry's amazing care-providers over the last year including the loving hearts and hands from Clara Barton Hospital, Gentiva Hospice, Angels Home Health Care, The Good Samaritan Society, The Cancer Center, all of his physicians, and Alisa.

There will be no visitation as cremation has taken place. A celebration of life will be announced at a later date. Inurnment will take place at another time in Chimayo, New Mexico. Memorials have been designated to the Golden Belt Humane Society or Gentiva Hospice, in care of Bryant Funeral Home, 1425 Patton Rd., Great Bend, KS 67530.