Arnold P. Kratky, 68 of Wilson, passed away on Saturday, Jan. 25, 2020 in Clearwater, Kan. He was the son of Paul and Emma (Adamek) Kratky, born on May 29, 1951 in Topeka, Kan. Arnold grew up in Wilson and graduated with the class of 1970, he then attended a vocational agriculture school out of Beloit for two years.
Following his education Arnold went right to work owning a tow truck business, a mechanic shop, and later in life, working with heavy machinery as an operator. Arnold enjoyed staying busy with building, fixing, and hauling.
He worked hard, and liked to play even harder. Known for his talents in the demo derby world as #747, you could rarely catch him away from his mechanic shop, a demo car, or shooting trap. Arnold was a talented trap shooter and traveled to many competitions over the years, earning many awards, including trophy guns, plaques and more.
He was a jack of all trades and enjoyed his adventures, some of which included obtaining a pilot’s license and scuba diving. He was also an avid hunter and monster truck fan, but above all, his pride and joy were his grandchildren, Kolten and Brantley.
Arnold was a good-hearted man who worked hard, enjoyed life and cherished his family and friends. Although he was taken from us far too soon, we know that those we enjoyed and loved, we can never lose, for all that we love deeply becomes a part of us. We can smile because he lived and left us with cherished memories that will live forever in our hearts.
He is survived by his daughter, Afton (Jed) Jones of Clearwater; and grandchildren, Kolten and Brantley Jones.
Arnold is preceded in death by his parents, Paul and Emma Kratky; and sister, Agnes Lamar.
A funeral service will be at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 1, 2020 at the funeral home in Wilson. Visitation will be from 2 to 8 p.m. Friday with family receiving friends from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the funeral home. A private family inurnment will be at the St. Wenceslaus Cemetery at a later date.
Memorials are suggested to the American Legion Post #262 or ClearPath Hospice of Wichita and may be sent in care of Plumer-Overlease Funeral Home, PO BOX 533, Wilson, KS 67490.