Oren Delaney born April 3, 1920 on a farm near Fredonia, Kansas died at his home in Wichita, Kansas at the age of 92 on April 10, 2012. He was preceded in death by his wife Frances, son Dwayne, daughter-in-law Trudy, brother, Damon and sister, Dema Griffin. He was survived by children, Charles (Debbie) of Rose Hill, Kenneth of Homa, Louisiana, George Reuben (Marlene) of Wichita, 12 grandchildren and 33 great grandchildren, and sister, Goldie Sisson of Fredonia.

Oren was a World War II veteran: First Class Battery C 143rd Field Artillery Battalion from 1940 to 1945. He served in the Pacific and the Philippines until he was honorably discharged.

Oren married Frances in 1946 in Wichita. They lived in Climax, Colorado for a year before returning to Wichita where they settled and started their family. Oren joined the Operative Plasterers' and Cement Masons' union as an apprentice and worked until he retired in 1985. He was the last surviving union member in Wichita.

Oren spent the next 25 years farming and gardening in WaKeeney, Kansas, "The best years of my life!" Oren is well known for his watermelon patch, vegetables, and sense of humor. He made friends wherever he went and always felt welcome in WaKeeney. His family would like to thank the people of WaKeeney for their large hearts and for making WaKeeney his home away from home.

Services will be held Monday, April 16, 2012, 10:30 am at Schmitt Funeral Home in WaKeeney, Kansas with Reverend Bob Gleason of Asbury Methodist Church, Wichita officiating. Visitation will be on Sunday from 5-7 pm at the funeral home. Memorials may be sent to Harry Hynes Memorial Hospice.

Oren was down to earth, easy going, and well respected. He is loved and will always hold a special place in our hearts.