1953-2026
Connie Diane Ney, 72, of Wichita, Kansas, passed away unexpectedly at home on April 11, 2026.
Born October 9, 1953, in Oakley, Kansas, to Walter L. and Florence P. (Keil) Popp, Connie began her childhood in Sharon Springs. Her family later moved to Hoisington and then Ness City before she finally made her home in Russell and graduated from Russell High School in 1971.
Connie continued her education at Fort Hays State University and graduated in 1975 with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Physical Education.
Connie had a deep love for animals, especially horses, and found great joy in everything connected to them—their care, their spirit, and the quiet companionship they offered. She also had a fondness for tending her plants, finding satisfaction in watching things grow. She was an avid reader, with books spanning nearly every subject that piqued her curiosity. She enjoyed meaningful conversations and traveling with friends, valuing connection and shared adventures.
Above all, Connie dearly loved her children and grandchildren. She will be remembered not for grand gestures, but for her readiness to help whenever she was needed and her steady presence—through regular phone conversations, meaningful visits, and faithfully showing up for birthdays, sporting events, concerts, and the many everyday moments that mattered most.
Most importantly, Connie loved God and continually sought to grow in her faith throughout her life.
She is survived by her children, Jessica (Micah) Berberich of Madrid, Iowa, and Jared (Audrey) Ney of Hoisington; their father, Kenny Ney of Hoisington; six grandchildren, Caleb, Cole, and Claire Berberich, and Reed, Jace, and Benn Ney; her sister, Linda (Doug) Tittel of Sharon Springs; her brother, Michael (Ann) Popp of Wichita; and two nieces and a nephew.
She was preceded in death by her father, Walter Popp; her mother, Florence Batt; and her stepfather, Walter Batt.
Family will greet friends on Friday, May 8th, 2026, at the funeral home from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.
Memorial service will be 11:00 a.m., Saturday, May 9th, at Nicholson-Ricke Funeral Home, with Father Warren Stecklein presiding. Inurnment will follow in Hoisington City Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to the American Heart Association or Golden Belt Humane Society in care of Nicholson-Ricke Funeral Home, PO Box 146, Hoisington KS 67544.
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