Ken A. Krien

Ken Krien, a lifelong resident of Cheyenne County, Kansas was peacefully called home on Monday, April 13, 2026, at The Cedars Courts in McPherson, Kansas.

Ken was welcomed to the world on February 4, 1940, in a sod house in rural St. Francis, Kansas, the son of John G. and Frances M. (Loyd) Krien. Throughout his life, progress came one hard-won step at a time, with his family’s home not having electricity until he was 9 years old. In 1958, Ken secured the heavyweight state wrestling title and graduated from St. Francis High School. Ken proudly served seven years in the Army Federal Reserve. On August 20, 1960, he was united in marriage to Sherry D. Applegate at the Applegate Farm in rural Bird City, Kansas. Ken, who lovingly referred to Sherry as “his bride” throughout his life, began their union in St. Francis where they welcomed two children, Kerby and Kim. In 1972, they built their lifelong home in Bird City, and their family grew with the arrival of Kandee and Kody.

Ken’s humble beginnings shaped his life early on and the lesson he later passed on to his own family: with perseverance and an unstoppable work ethic, the American Dream was possible. Ken established Krien Farm Supply, building it into a respected chemical and fertilizer business serving northwest Kansas. A natural leader, he poured his time into Bird City for decades—serving on the City Council and later guiding the community for 14 years as mayor. As part of his lifelong service to others, Ken was a member of Shriners International and the American Legion. He was a founding board member of Western Plains Energy and he helped create a longstanding community tradition of Bird City Santa Day. Ken’s heart was forever at the farm, where there was always another project waiting. A master craftsman, he could do it all. Ken enjoyed traveling the country with his bride and never missed an opportunity to treat his grandkids to ice cream. Followed by the love for his family was his love for hunting. His legacy will quietly live on through his family and community.

He is survived by his loving wife and best friend of 65 years, Sherry; his four children, Kerby Krien (Canda) of Bird City, Kansas, Kim Eissler (Charlie) of Ranchester, Wyoming, Kandee Schneider (Michael) of McPherson, Kansas, and Kody Krien (Penny) of St. Francis, Kansas; his siblings, Loyd Krien and Lois O’Dell; eight grandchildren, Chase Krien (Lisa), Afton Huck (Grant), Jake Eissler (Hannah), Hayden Schneider, Perrin Schneider, KC Krien, Adam Krien, and Ellee Krien; three great-grandchildren, Farrah Huck, Marrin Huck, and Aden Krien; along with many extended relatives and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his siblings, Ronnie Krien and Karen Postier.

A private family gathering to celebrate Ken’s life will be held in McPherson where he spent his final month. A gathering in Cheyenne County is being considered for a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made to Bird City Century II Foundation and mailed to either of the following:

1. ·Bird City Century II Foundation, P.O. Box 174, Bird City, KS 67731
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3. ·Stockham Family Funeral Home, 205 North Chestnut, McPherson, KS 67460
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When available, an online link will be posted for those wanting to give memorials electronically.