Ardis Claypool

Ardis Ann (Hawkinson) Claypool, 73, a resident of Marquette, KS, passed away on Sunday, December 17, 2023, at Ascension Via Christi St. Francis Hospital in Wichita, KS, following complications from a surgical procedure.

Born on February 26, 1950, in Lindsborg, KS, Ardis was the beloved daughter of Arthur E. and Halcey Juanita (Godfrey) Hawkinson. In 1968, she graduated from Marquette High School and married Richard M. Claypool on July 27, 1968, in Marquette, KS. The couple had two children, Terri A. Claypool and R. Michael Claypool II.

After dedicating several years to the McPherson County Treasurer’s office, Ardis chose to embrace the role of a stay-at-home mom. In 1977, a temporary position at Kanopolis Lake, initially expected to last a few weeks, turned into a remarkable 36-year career. She retired from the US Army Corps of Engineers in 2013, embracing a life of leisure.

Ardis was a member of the Smoky Valley Saddle Club and served as a former board member of the Marquette Senior Center.

Known for her unwavering work ethic and deep love for nature, Ardis worked side by side with her husband on the family farm. Even after retirement, she continued to savor moments by the lake and on the farm. In the past year, she embraced the role of a part-time resident in Sarasota, FL, basking in the sun, cherishing the outdoors, and enjoying the lifestyle of a snowbird.

Ardis was preceded in death by her husband, Richard M. Claypool; daughter, Terri A. Claypool; parents, Arthur E. and Halcey Juanita (Godfrey) Hawkinson; and her brother, Gerald T. (“Ted”) Hawkinson.

She is survived by her son, Michael Claypool (Kansas City, MO); brothers, Warren Hawkinson (McPherson, KS) and Earl Hawkinson (Denver, CO); sister, Linda Decker (Pittsfield, IL); and numerous nieces and nephews, all of whom she held dear.

A memorial service will be held at 3:00 PM, Thursday, December 28, 2023, at the Marquette United Methodist Church with Pastor Brenda Hogan officiating.  A celebration of life reception will follow. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to Marquette United Methodist Church or the Marquette Learning Center in care of Stockham Family Funeral Home, 205 North Chestnut, McPherson, KS 67460.