Russell Wesley Ibbetson

R. Wesley Ibbetson, 85 of Cherryvale, Kansas passed away on Wednesday, June 11, 2025, in Bartlesville, Oklahoma.

Russell Wesley Ibbetson was born on July 25, 1939, in Rose, Kansas the son of Russell Leon Ibbetson and Clara Settlemyer Ibbetson.

Russell's contributions to the field of agricultural science and his deep-rooted commitment to farming profoundly impacted both his profession and his community.

Educated at Yates Center High School, Russell graduated in 1957 before pursuing his higher education at Kansas State University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Dairy Cow Management in 1962, followed by a Master of Science degree in Animal Nutrition in 1972. These academic achievements laid the foundation for a distinguished career that included roles as a Dairy Scientist at the SEKS Experiment Center and a dedicated employee at the Coffeyville Post Office, alongside his passion for farming.

Russell was united in marriage to Patricia Ann Christmas, in Yates Center Kansas on August 10, 1963, and they were married for 61 years. Patricia survives at the home.

In addition to his professional endeavors, Russell was an avid writer, along with enjoying gardening and pecan picking, which reflected his love for the land he cherished. His role as a farmer was not merely a job; it was a way of life that he embraced with pride and passion. Russell was a member of the Church of Christ, for over 70 years.

Russell leaves behind his beloved wife, Patricia Ann Ibbetson, and his children: Thomas Ibbetson of Wichita, Kansas; Paul Ibbetson of Wichita, Kansas; James Ibbetson of Mound Valley, Kansas; Jonathan Ibbetson of Ozark, Missouri; and Amy Ibbetson of Wichita, Kansas. His legacy continues through his grandchildren, Evelyn, Violet, Colton, Iris, Clara, Erik, Christopher, Samantha, Albani, and Niana.

He is also survived by his siblings: Leona Smith of Yates Center, Kansas; Ron Ibbetson of Phoenix, Arizona; Richard Ibbetson of Yates Center, Kansas; and David Ibbetson of Yates Center, Kansas. Russell was preceded in death by his parents, Russell Leon and Clara Settlemyer Ibbetson.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Wickham Family Funeral Home in Cherryvale, Kansas. A funeral service will take place on Thursday, June 19, 2025, at 10:00 AM at the Church of Christ in Cherryvale, Kansas, followed by graveside at Buffalo Cemetery at 2:00 PM.

Memorial remembrances to the Cherryvale Food Bank, may be mailed or left at Wickham Family Funeral Home & Cremation Service, 216 E. 4th St., Cherryvale, Kansas 67335.