Harold Townsend

Harold Loren "Hal" Townsend, 64, passed away on December 22, 2025 in Wichita, Kansas. He was born in Wellington, Kansas on May 19, 1961. Known to everyone as Hal and to his grandchildren as Papa, his loyalty, love, humor, and supportive nature enriched the lives of all who knew him. Hal's journey began in Wellington, where as a young boy he cultivated a love for fishing at every river in Kansas he could find. This adoration for the open water and the serenity of casting a line remained with him throughout his life, extending to his family as he relished taking them out on local lakes in his boat. Whether fish were caught or not, the good times they had together were treasures in their own right.
Hal's career was marked by dedication and meticulousness, starting with his work alongside his brother-in-law, Dean, installing and setting mobile homes for around 20 years. Following that chapter, Hal served as a Construction Foreman for his brother Dennis's company, Tri Cities Paint and Decorating, for an additional 20 years. His role allowed him to travel widely, meeting a diverse range of people and ensuring every job was done right for the customers. Yet, it was his home life that truly defined him. Hal was immensely proud of his family, with the accomplishments of his children and his grandchildren serving as his greatest achievements. His love was shown through gentle teasing, steady care, and time spent together. Hal's love for his family is what filled his heart and his days. A talker by nature, Hal never met a stranger and had an uncanny ability to make people feel comfortable around him.
Hal is survived by his wife, Rebena Townsend of the home; son, Jason Townsend and fiance Kelli Sykes of Park City; daughter, Mytzi Hays and husband Kyle of Wellington; grandchildren: Ellie, Jett, Cassius, Mazric, Asher, and Atlas Hays; sister, Nancy Driver and husband Dean Prindle of Wellington; sister, Karen Crowe and husband Richard of Enid, OK; sister, Janet Allen and husband Doug of Milan; brother, Richard Townsend and wife Cassie of Wellington; brother, Steve Townsend of Wellington; sister, Beverly Hoffine of Caney; brother, Gary Gorby of Caney; sister, Vanessa Read of Ipswich, Suffolk, England; brother, Rick Storey of Ipswich, Suffolk, England; sister-in-law, Linda Townsend of Wellington, and a large extended family. He was preceded in death by his father, Harold Townsend; his mother, Wauneta (Ashcraft) Townsend; brother, Dennis Townsend, and an infant sister, Carol Townsend.
A Celebration of Life honoring Hal will be held at 4:00 p.m., Saturday, January 24, 2026 in the Community Building at Sellers Park in Wellington.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a contribution to the WHS.CC Scholarship Fund. Contributions can be mailed or left with the funeral home.
As we remember Hal, 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, 1030 Mission Road, Wellington, Kansas.