Vernon F. Rinke

April 1, 1935 - December 26, 2020

Vernon F. Rinke, 85, of Medicine Lodge, KS, died Saturday, December 26, 2020. He was born on April 1, 1935 in Medicine Lodge, KS, the son of Joseph R. Rinke and Gertrude (Rausch) Rinke. On June 11, 1960, he married Charlene Ann (Fischer) Rinke. She preceded him in death on March 4, 2000. Vernon was a mechanic and worked for the Barber County Highway Department for over 35 years. He loved to fish. He was a member of the Holy Rosary Catholic Church, Medicine Lodge, KS and the Knights of Columbus. He was a U.S. Navy veteran. Surviving are four children, Kimberly (Steve) Allen of Haysville, KS, Bryon Rinke (Max Thompson) of Winfield, KS, Andrew Rinke of Hoisington, KS, and Stephanie (Rex) Skiles of Eldon, MO; Grandchildren, Matt (Amy) Allen, Courtney Allen, Kaitlyn (Patrick) Longbine, Jacob (Courtney) Skiles, Mallory (Andrew) Leiker, and Morgan (Cody) Barklage; Great-Grandchildren, Madison, Mason, and Matthew Allen, Kash and Brooks Longbine, Avery and Laurel Skiles, Olivia, Ethan, and Ian Leiker, and Truman Barklage. Vernon was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Gertrude, his wife, Charlene, and ten siblings. Graveside services will be held on Wednesday, December 30, 2020 at 10:00 a.m. at Highland Cemetery, Medicine Lodge, KS with Father Mark Brantley presiding. Military honors will be conducted by the U.S. Navy Honor Guard. Memorials may be made to the Knights of Columbus or the Alzheimer’s Association, in care of Larrison Funeral Home, 120 E. Lincoln, Medicine Lodge, KS 67104.