Greg McKinley, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend passed away on February 1, 2025, at his hearts favorite spot-his family farm, the very place he grew up and called home.  His passing at that cherished land, right where his heart was, is a fitting testament to a life well lived.  He was an unmistakable presence, a source of laughter and a man who never knew a stranger.  Greg's steady force brought warmth and joy to all who knew him, and his legacy will live on in the hearts of his family and friends.

Greg was born November 27th, 1959, in Elkhart, Kansas, but he was raised and spent his life happily north of the river, where he built deep roots in the community he loved.  He was a man of unwavering loyalty, kindness and a sense of humor that could bring a smile to anyone's face.

Greg contributed over 25 years of his life working at COOP while dedicating over 30 years as a volunteer firefighter.  He was a valuable hired hand at various farms, a Seaboard maintenance man, drove trucks for multiple trucking companies, including his favorite the Robertson.  He was always the first to lend a helping hand, never turning down an opportunity to assist a friend, neighbor, or even a stranger in need.  His work ethic, resourcefulness, dependability and willingness to offer his time made him irreplaceable.

Greg had a passion for helping others always showing up when someone needed a hand, no matter the time of day.  He loved people with his whole heart, never hesitating to go out of his way to support friends, family and even strangers.  Whether it was fixing something, offering counsel (solicited or not) or simply being there, Greg's kindness and generosity left a lasting impact.

He also knew how to have a great time and lived life exactly the way he wanted to.  Greg loved drinking good whiskey, cracking jokes and giving people a hard time-often all at once.  His sharp wit and mischievous sense of humor made every moment spent with him unforgettable.  His signature look was unmistakable:  well-worn overalls or coveralls, always broken in just right, paired with one of his many fun hats.  Whether it was a unique find from an auction or a silly hat that made people laugh, Greg wore them all with pride, adding to his one-of-a kind charm.

A lifelong music lover, Greg enjoyed any song with a good guitar.  Whether it was country, bluegrass, rock and roll, or anything in between, if it had strong strings and a great sound, he was all in.  He never passed up an opportunity to attend a concert, always embracing the energy and soul that live music brought.

He found joy in the simple things:  sunrises, sunsets, arrowhead hunting, searching for artifacts at DM auctions, tinkering with anything that needed fixing, a good book and simply enjoying the good company of those he loved.

Greg McKinley lived life on his own terms-full of love, laughter and a little bit of mischief.  He left this world just as he lived in:  unapologetically himself.

His is preceded in death by his parents, LP and Velda Fay McKinley; his brother, Bob McKinley; his daughter, Jazlin McKinley; his granddaughter, Nevaeh McKinley-Coen; his sister-in-law, Janice McKinley and his father-in-law, Richard Ochoa.

Greg's legacy lives on through his loving wife, Missy McKinley and his children:  Cristan and Nat Ball, Breanna and Chris Aranda, AJ and Mica McKinley, and Justin McKinley.  He also leaves behind his brothers, Wes McKinley, David McKinley, Charlie and Wilda McKinley, his sister-in-law, Louise Quintana-McKinley, Jim and Connie McKinley, his mother-in-law, Shirley Ochoa, and his sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Heather and Brent Cook.  Nieces and nephews far and wide.

His greatest pride and joy was being Pappy to his grandchildren:  Presley Aranda, Silas Ball, Saul Ball, Paisley Aranda, LD Ball, Lillian Ball, Paxley Aranda and a soon-to-arrive grandchild.

Ride high, Pappy.  You will always be loved and never forgotten.