Roger Franklin Sells

Roger Franklin Sells passed away Saturday, March 9, 2013 at his home in WaKeeney, Kansas at the age of 66. He was born March 26, 1946 in Topeka, Kansas, to Lee Franklin and Ione Laura (Conable) Sells. Roger married Velda Grecian May 28, 1968 in WaKeeney, Kansas. They were blessed with three children: Roger, Jr., Mindie and Lee. Roger went to school in Smith Center and graduated in 1964. He then attended Electronic College in Denver until 1965 when he enlisted in the US Navy. He was stationed on the J.F. Kennedy Aircraft Carrier as a Chief Petty Officer. In 1969 he was honorably discharged and went to work for Jerry Mai as a meat cutter in WaKeeney. He then was a city cop at night and went to Fort Hays State University during the day. Roger became the Sheriff for Trego County for 4 years and then worked in the oilfield as a Roughneck for ten years. If you asked Roger what his profession was he would say he was a baker, which he developed a passion for while owning his bakery in Burlington, Kansas. He then went on to manage the bakery department for HyVee for several years before he retired. Along with baking, Roger enjoyed fishing, and in his younger years, bow hunting and dirt track racing. He was a KU basketball fanatic and had great appreciation for all sports. Roger cherished the time with his grandkids and was always excited to watch their sporting events. Survivors include sons Roger “Bub” Sells, Jr. and wife Tana of Russell and Lee Sells and wife Tina of WaKeeney; daughter Mindie Killmayer and husband Tom of Brunswick, MD; 10 grandchildren, Phillip Killmayer, Chelsea Sells, Morgan Killmayer, Nicholas Sells, Teghan Sells, Alex Killmayer, Taylor Sells, Gillian Killmayer, Tanner Sells and Reed Killmayer; brother-in-law, Steve Walker; nieces and nephews Kelly, Kevin and Kerri Mason and Kim Bloss; and one great-grandchild on the way. Preceding Roger in death were his parents, Lee and Ione and sister Terry Walker. Roger was an honest, humble, and hardworking man who was especially appreciated for his genuineness and witty sense of humor. He will be missed by all who knew him. Reception: V.F.W.