Jack O. Ekey passed away at his Kansas City, MO, home on August 23, 2008 after a lengthy illness. Jack was born in Hays, KS on July 16, 1928, to Richard E. and Nellie B. (Smith) Ekey. He graduated from Hays High School and attended Fort Hays State University. He served in the US Army at Fort Bliss, TX, in the Criminal Investigation Division from 1951 to 1953.

After military service, he joined his father in managing Ekey Studio and Camera Store in Hays. Jack married Marilyn Karlin on February 12, 1955 in Hays. He was active in the Jaycees, holding local, state and national offices. He served on the Hays City Commission from 1965 to 1969 and as mayor in 1966. He also served on the city/county planning commission for several years. The Ekeys relocated to Kansas City, MO, in 1986, where he was employed by One Hour Photo, The Missouri River Queen and Van Deusen Photography.

He is survived by his wife, Marilyn, of the home; one son, Bill (Betty) Ekey, Odessa, MO; two daughters, Pamela Ekey, Theodosia MO and Patricia (Mike) Berning, Overland Park, KS; nine grandchildren, two great-grandchildren; and one sister, Thyliss M. Binter, Fort Myers, FL. He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Faunt and Sam; and one sister, Twyla.

Visitation will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday August 27 at Marts Memorial Services, 14 Westport Rd., Kansas City. Graveside services will be at 12:30 p.m. Thursday, August 28, Veterans National Cemetery in Leavenworth, KS.