Kevin Dittemore

Kevin Dittemore, born on September 7, 1955, in Liberal, Kansas, passed away on November 4, 2025, in Wichita, Kansas. He leaves behind a legacy as a passionate chef, dedicated family member, and a uniquely humorous individual.

Kevin's love for cooking led him through a remarkable career where he not only worked as a chef in various restaurants throughout Wichita but also owned and operated several successful establishments in both Kansas and Missouri. His culinary creations were a testament to his creative spirit and deep appreciation for the art of food. He took immense pride in introducing others to his innovative cuisine and enjoyed every opportunity to share his passion with those around him.

In addition to his culinary pursuits, Kevin was a lifelong learner who earned a Master’s degree in Chemistry from Emporia State University. His inquisitive nature drove him to constantly explore and understand how things worked, and he extended this knowledge to those who were eager to learn. Kevin had a rich inner life that included hobbies such as reading from Scientific American and Smithsonian magazines, where he stayed updated on advancements in science and history.

Kevin's personality was one of a kind, marked by a dry and unique sense of humor. He had a talent for making others laugh unexpectedly, often leaving them in wonder at his witty observations. One memorable instance occurred during a routine medical appointment when, asked about what he had for lunch, he replied matter-of-factly, “12 Mickey-Dees,” leaving his physician momentarily speechless until family members clarified his jest. Another time, when the doctor requested to ‘give him a hand’ in moving to the examining table, Kevin amusingly quipped, “No, I need a foot!” This was Kevin in his purest form—full of charm and laughter.

Kevin is survived by his brother Carl Dittemore and his brother Dirk Dittemore, along with their respective families: sister-in-law Pat Ukena Dittemore and sister-in-law Kim Jew Dittemore. He is also survived by his nephew Kyle Dittemore and his fiancé Maelle Collin; niece and nephew-in-law Emily Dittemore and Joseph Tortorelli; niece and nephew-in-law Allison Dittemore and Ryan Cerutti; nephew and niece-in-law Cole Dittemore and Leah DelRosario; niece Clare Dittemore; and his grandnephews and grandniece, Luke, Leo, and Lucia Tortorelli, and William and John Cerutti. Additionally, close friend Sam Ullum will cherish fond memories of Kevin.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents Fenn and Sadie (Brown) Ward, his grandmother Myrtle (Mink) Dittemore-Morehead, his father Harold Eugene Dittemore, his mother Kathryn Moyne (Ward-Dittemore) Boyle, his stepfather Hugh Halsey (Hal) Boyle, and his uncle and aunt Gerald and Beulah (Ward) Stutz.

Kevin Dittemore’s presence will be greatly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy as a chef, a thinker, and a humorist will live on in the hearts of those he touched throughout his life.

A private family service has been held.