Arthur “Art” Johann Hamilton, 98 , formally of Oberlin, Kansas died Thursday, October 29, 2026 in Salina, Kansas. He was born May 30, 1928 in Oberlin, Kansas to Archibald and Lola (Koehler) Hamilton.

He graduated from Decatur Community HS in 1947 where he played multiple sports. He received a track scholarship to KU, but transferred to Fort Hays State after one semester to play football and run track/field. While in college at Fort Hays State College he met Wilma Horner and they married December 17, 1950 in Goodland, Kansas.

He served in the Korean War from 1952-1956 in the USAF, stationed at Edwards AFB in the accounting department. After being discharged, he completed his business degree at Ft. Hays State. He and Wilma moved to Oberlin where they raised their three children and to help his father run Hamilton Oil Company and later expand the business to include fertilizer and propane. He and Wilma eventually retired to Bella Vista, Arkansas in 1993. In 2022 he moved up to Salina, KS to be closer to family.

He enjoyed wood working, golf, bowling, square dancing, cards and traveling. He was a Mason for over 70 years, Oberlin Country Club president for two years, president of Good Sam’s Travel Club for two years, and Oberlin Rotary Club president for two years. He belonged to the Methodist Church in Oberlin, and the Presbyterian Church in Bella Vista, AR.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Wilma; daughter, Linda and her husband Randall Abla; and sister, Mary and her husband Darrell Landau. Art is survived by a daughter, Marsha (Randal) Kinder; and son. Rohn (Kris) Hamilton. His grandchildren are Melissa Abla, Machelle (Caleb) Zook, James (Jordan) Abla, Aaron and Brett Hamilton, and Emily (Ryan) Bonilla. Great grandkids include Kennedy and Kade Zook, and Bennet, Nora, and Callan Bonilla. He leaves behind many wonderful nieces, nephews, and friends.

His graveside services will be determined at a later date. The burial will be at the Oberlin Cemetery, Oberlin, Kansas.

In lieu of flowers memorials can be made to the donor’s choice in honor of Arthur.