Harold Aubray KibbeYates Center, KS

At 28, his mother invited him to move to Quincy, Washington. Harold made the move and quickly fell in love with Washington State's natural beauty. He made Quincy his home for many years and eventually retired from Columbia Foods, a food processing company in Quincy. Harold took great pride in his work as a groundskeeper. He often shared stories about his job and the care he took in keeping the grounds beautiful. He had a special eye for beauty and found joy in making the world around him a little more beautiful.

Following his mother's passing and his retirement, Harold returned to Kansas to be closer to his nephew, Robert Winn. He settled in Yates Center, where he made new friends and became a familiar face in the community. Harold enjoyed his daily outings, whether walking or riding his bicycle around town. His mornings often began with a visit to the town square, where he greeted people with his big smile and a friendly wave. He had favorite stops along the way, including Cornerstone Bakery, where Ms. Jes lovingly prepared his hot tea with honey; the lumberyard, where he caught up on the latest news; the pharmacy, where he stopped to visit; and the Pizza Hut crew, who became like family to him. But above all else, Harold loved the Lord Jesus Christ. His faith was the foundation of his life, and he never hesitated to share Jesus' love with others. Although Harold never learned to read, he knew the Bible by heart and could quote his favorite Scriptures from memory. One of his favorite passages was John 3:16–17, which speaks of God's great love for the world and the gift of eternal life through His Son, Jesus Christ. These verses reflected the faith Harold carried in his heart and the hope he shared with those around him. Harold also loved music, hearing the Word of God, and fellowshipping with his church family at Cowboy Church and the Arena of Life. His love for the Lord showed in his conversations and how he connected with others.

Harold often spoke about being ready to go to heaven. His faith gave him deep, abiding hope, and he looked forward to being with his Savior and reuniting with his “beautiful mother and two darling sisters.” Harold leaves behind a legacy of faith, kindness, hard work, and friendship. He will be remembered for his BIG straw hat, warm smile, friendly waves around town, his love for the Word of God, and the many lives he touched along the way. Though he may no longer walk the streets of Yates Center, his memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. His life reminds us that a person does not have to be famous or wealthy to make a difference. Sometimes, the greatest legacy is found in a smile, a kind word, a faithful heart, and a life lived for Jesus.

Harold is preceded in death by his father, mother, two sisters, and one nephew. He is survived by one nephew, one niece, and numerous close friends. Harold's earthly journey has ended, but for a man who loved the Lord and looked forward to heaven, we can take comfort in the promise of eternal life through Jesus Christ.

No public service is planned at this time.  Cremation has been requested with Countryside Funeral Home 420 S. 20th St., P.O. Box 247, Fredonia, KS 66736