Kenneth A. Veltman, 90 years old, of Salina, passed away Friday, March 13, 2026, at the Salina Presbyterian Manor.
Kenneth was born in Abilene, KS to Arnold F. & Helen (Smith) Veltman on April 24, 1935. He was a graduate of Abilene High School.
On October 6, 1956, he was married to JoAnn (Hutchison) in Salina. They were married for 69 years. To this union a daughter, Kerry Ann, was born.
Kenneth owned & operated Veltman Transport, a fuel transport company which was established & operated in Abilene by his parents. After his father’s death Kenneth acquired the business. For 42 years, Ken delivered fuel to his many Central Kansas customers. Always with a smile, rarely with a complaint & even in inclement weather, Ken never missed a day driving down the highways of Kansas. In 2000 Ken parked his truck and retired.
Kenneth leaves behind his wife JoAnn; daughter, Kerry Chaput; grandsons, Chad (Sara) Chaput & Matt (Kristen) Chaput; great-grandchildren; Bria Byerley, Emma Chaput, Ella Chaput & Easton Chaput; and a sister, Rosanne (Roger) Cox. He also leaves his Presbyterian Manor “family” which he had formed close bonds with.
Kenneth is proceeded in death by his parents & son-in-law, Mike Chaput, who was more like a son.
Kenneth’s funeral will be held on Friday, March 20, 2026, at 10:30 am at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church. Burial will be in the Roselawn Memorial Park Cemetery, Salina.
In lieu of flowers or memorial contributions, do random acts of kindness in memory of Ken.
“Be kind & compassionate to one another.” Ephesians 4:32
The family would like to extend their appreciation to all the Presbyterian Manor employees, and a special “Thank You” to the Assisted Living staff for the care that was given to Ken.
For more information or to leave condolences go to www.ryanmortuary.com.