Kenneth "Cricket" L. McCartney

Kenneth "Cricket" L. McCartney, a beloved husband, father, and friend, passed away on October 6, 2023, surrounded by the family that meant the most to him. He was born on January 29, 1939, in Angola, Kansas to Frank "Bub" and Addie (Taylor) McCartney. Kenneth was the oldest of four children and embraced his role throughout his life.

Kenneth's early years he was also known as "Tine' by his family as his brother was "Tip; his sisters were "Peach" and "Punk". Even as a young child, he helped with the family chores and learned the value of resourcefulness. He had a frugal nature and could stretch a nickel into seven cents like no one else. Kenneth often asserted confidently, "I know what I'm doing," as he forged his own path through life.

Kenneth's elementary years were at the rural Angola school, and he attended graduated from Labette County High School. It was during this time that he established himself as a driven individual with a strong work ethic.

Following his education, Kenneth served his country with honor and distinction. As a young man, he joined the US Army and later continued in the Army Reserves until receiving his honorary discharge. While in the Army, he developed his culinary skills as a cook—a talent that his family continued to benefit from. 

At the young age of 15 Shirley Holderbaum met Kenneth and they shared a mutual attraction to each other. After a 2-year courtship the two were married on June 5, 1959, in Coffeyville at Shirley’s parents’ home. They had just celebrated 64 years of marriage.

After concluding his military service, Kenneth embarked on a fulfilling career journey. He was owner/operator of two semis’ after returning from Texas.  A job at Aptus became available where he worked for several years and retired from Kopco Inc. in Caney, Kansas. His dedication to his work was apparent to all who knew him.

Outside of work, Kenneth loved fishing, it held a special place in his heart—it was his absolute favorite pastime. Often accompanied by his son, he would spend countless hours casting lines into the waters. His family sometimes wondered if he was fishing for the fish or if the fish were fishing for his pole. They fondly recall the times when many of his poles inexplicably ended up at the bottom of the lake, until they discovered pole life jackets. Apart from fishing, Kenneth also enjoyed camping while living residing in Mesquite, Texas for 15 years. He was an avid deer hunter, and football watcher; he cheerfully supported the Dallas Cowboys. One Christmas, he surprised his family by dressing up as Santa Claus—it was so unexpected and brought joy his children.

Kenneth was a man of few words but expressed his deep love for his family through actions and affectionate nicknames. His razzing and nicknames were a testament to the bond he shared with his loved ones—they knew they were truly loved and liked by him. He leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories.

In addition to his wife, Shirley J. (Holderbaum) McCartney, Kenneth is survived by his sons Mike McCartney (and wife Tammy) and Terry McCartney (and wife Kimba). He was a proud grandfather to Nick McCartney, Kenny McCartney, Savannah Covone, Nicki Spears, and Misty Woollard. His great-grandchildren include Zach, Colin, Bridget, Brexton, and Anna McCartney; Odin and Oliver Covne; as well as Audrey and Kalyee Woollard. Kenneth is also survived by his brother-in-law Tom Newton and sister-in-law Carolyn McCartney and a host of nieces, nephews, and friends.

Kenneth's parents Frank "Bub" McCartney and Addie McCartney preceded him in death, also at rest is his brother Clifford "Tip" McCartney and sisters Lola "Peach" Newton and Laura Walker (and husband Steve).

A visitation will be held on October 9th at Ford-Wulf-Bruns Chapel, 2405 Woodland Ave. in Coffeyville from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM. The funeral service will take place on October 10th at Lewark Church of God, 902 Lewark, also in Coffeyville at 10:00 AM.   The family request Memorial Contributions be made payable to Shriner's Children's Hospital or Wounded Warriors and may be left in care of the chapel.  To leave a message of condolence, share a memory or view live streaming of his service visit www.fordwulfbrunschapel.com .