Neil Warden

Robert Neil Warden, affectionately known as Neil, passed away on April 19, 2025, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, at the age of 76. Born on June 10, 1948, in Eads, Colorado; he lived a life marked by dedication to his work, devotion to his family, and a deep appreciation for the simple joys that brought him happiness.
Neil pursued higher education at Pittsburg State University and Fort Hays State University. Though just three hours shy of earning his bachelor's degree, he carried with him a wealth of knowledge and experience that served him well throughout his professional life. He worked as a plumbing parts salesman and later as an Occupational Safety Manager-roles in which he was known for his reliability and strong work ethic.
Family was at the heart of Neil's world. He is survived by his sons, Cale Warden and wife Sherri of Deerfield, Kansas, and Dylan Warden and wife Courtney of Hesston, Kansas, Children, Sarai (TL) Strickland of Willis, TX, Amanda (Troy) Michel of Lakin KS. He also leaves behind his brother Trent Warden of Deerfield; sister Pam McBride of Garden City; Lyndel Taylor, lifelong companion and friend ; Grandchildren Beau and Kylie Warden of Hesston and Elise Warden of Deerfield, KS, Jocelyn Warden of Wichita, KS, Phoenix Younie of Angleton TX, Talan Jamison of Las Vegas, NV, Clay Michel of Deerfield, KS, Willow Mangum of Tyler TX, Tiahna Blackett of Kansas City, KS, Dawn Strickland of Searcy, AR, as well as many nieces, nephews, and friends who will deeply miss him.
Neil was preceded in death by his father Elra "Shorty" Warden; mother Georgia Jean Warden; brother Leigh Warden; sister-in-law Shirley Warden; brother-in-law Dennis McBride; and grandson Gannon Warden and niece Misty Warden.
To those who knew him best-especially his grandchildren-he was lovingly known as "Pops," a title he wore with pride. Whether cheering from the sidelines at their sporting events or simply spending time together, Pops was a constant source of encouragement and love. Neil found joy in life's quieter moments. He loved fishing trips that offered peace and reflection, afternoons spent golfing with friends under wide Kansas skies, lively poker nights filled with laughter and camaraderie, and watching his grandkids play sports-a pastime that brought him immense pride.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Wednesday April 30th, from 4:00 pm-6:00 pm (come and go) at the Kearny Senior Center located at 305 Kansas St., Lakin, Kansas 67860. Friends and family are invited to gather in remembrance of Neil's life while enjoying some of his favorite desserts-including cake and peach cobbler-in honor of the sweet moments he shared with so many. Condolences may be posted at www.garnandfuneralhomes.com
Memorials are suggested to Neil Warden Memorial Fund in care of Garnand Funeral Home, Box 91, Lakin, Ks. 67860