Gilford C. Hale, 78 years of age, of Concordia passed away Sunday, October 4, 2026, surrounded by his family, peacefully at his home in Concordia.
He was born on May 22, 1948, in Concordia, Kansas to James and Rosie (Jewell) Hale.
Gilford graduated from Concordia High School in the Class of 1968. He went on and graduated from NCKAVTS Beloit Campus, with a Diesel Mechanic Degree.
Gilford Served in the United States Army from 1969 until 1971 and was stationed in California and Germany. He was a Tank Mechanic while in the Army. He was honorably discharged.
He married Juanita Barajas on April 7, 1969, at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church in Concordia, Kansas. To this Union two children were born, Valerie and John.
He was a member American Legion Post #76 of Concordia.
Gilford retired in 2010 from Cloud County Road & Bridge Department as a Diesel Mechanic where he worked for 15 years. Prior to that Gilford worked as a Diesel Mechanic for Boogaarts Scrivner for 40 years as a Diesel Mechanic, retiring in 2010.
He enjoyed fishing, playing cards, crafts, woodworking, gardening, cooking, and working on all sorts of vehicles and doing small engine repairs. He was avid KC Chiefs and Kansas City Royals Fan always cheering them on to victory. Most of all he loved spending time with his beloved family and friends, especially his pet dogs Maddie and Ollie.
Gilford is survived by his daughter, Valerie (Roger) Hamilton of Scandia, KS; a son, John Hale (Christine Ward) of Concordia, KS; several nieces, nephews and cousins; three sisters-in-law, Vicky Waggoner (Les), Salina, KS; Teresa Winter (Casey), Great Bend, KS; Christina Crump, Concordia, KS.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Juanita, and parents, James and Rosie, a sister, Geraldine Bunch and two brothers, Theodore Hale and George Hale.
Visitation will be held on Sunday from 4-6 p.m., October 11, 2026, at the Chaput-Buoy Funeral Home, Concordia, Kansas.
A Graveside Celebration of Life Service will be held on Monday, October 12, 2026, at 10:00 a.m., in the St. Concordia Catholic Cemetery, Concordia, Kansas, with Jason Grogan as the Celebrant.
Military Honors will be provided by the local Concordia American Legion Post #76 and Ft. Riley Big Red One. Immediately following the graveside service the family has invited everyone back the American Legion where a luncheon will be served and continued fellowship.
The family suggests memorials made to Gentiva Hospice in care of Chaput-Buoy Funeral Home, PO Box 606, Concordia, KS 66901. For online condolences please visit www.chaputbuoy.com.