Benjamin Alfred Baxter

Benjamin Alfred Baxter, age 86 of Clay Center, Kansas died Sunday, April 21, 2013 at the Golden Living Center in Wakefield, Kansas. He was born on February 5, 1927 in Clay Center, Kansas, the son of Alfred and Bernice (Hemphill) Baxter. On February 5, 1946, he was married to Margaret Hedlund. She preceded him in death in 2009. He farmed for many years until 1970. He then worked as a custodian for the Clay Center school system for 20 years. He was a devoted husband, father and grandfather. He enjoyed many activities with his grandchildren, especially fishing. Benjamin was a member of the Clay Center Wesleyan Church and Ham Radio Operator’s Club of Clay County. Benjamin and Margaret were devoted to the church where they were YMWB and CYC Directors. They were honored for 34 years of never missing a Sunday night meeting for the YMWB. He was also a Sunday school teacher for over 40 years, music director for 20 years and sang in the church choir. He is survived by one son, Robert Baxter of Wakefield, Kansas; one daughter, Martha Hanson and husband John of Riley, Kansas; two brothers, Roy Baxter of Clay Center, Kansas and Warren Baxter of Shawnee, Oklahoma; eight grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by his parents, one brother, Allen Baxter and a grandson, Chris Baxter. A funeral service was held on Saturday, April 27, 2013 at the Clay Center Wesleyan Church with Pastor Rob Stewart and Rev. Kent Hedlund officiating. Music was furnished by nieces and nephews. Pallbearers were Doug Baxter, Mark Hanson, Steven Hanson, Nathan Hanson, Ben Hanson and Joey Hanson. Burial was in the Greenwood Cemetery in Clay Center, Kansas. A memorial has been established for the Benjamin Baxter Memorial Fund. The memorials will go to the Clay Center Wesleyan Church and an organization of the family’s choice.