Final Salute

Harry Anthony Droste, 69, of Wichita, KS, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, August 30, 2024, at his home. Born March 12, 1955, in Dodge City, KS, he was the son of George P. and Anna (Pfannenstiel) Droste.

Harry attended Sacred Heart School and Dodge City High School before joining the United States Seabees. He completed his basic training in San Diego, CA, and was assigned to the US Navy Seabees Mobile Construction Battalion No. 3. After a year-long deployment in Diego Garcia, he returned to Dodge City and worked as a welder in various manufacturing roles.

In 1995, Harry married Sandra Cravens, and the couple made their home in Wichita. He founded Derby Welding and Trailer Repair in 1996, establishing a reputation for quality work and dedication throughout the Wichita area.

Harry was preceded in death by his parents, George and Anna Droste; his brothers Dennis and Lawrence; and his sisters Shirley and Rosalee. He is survived by his loving wife Sandra; his siblings Robert J. Droste (Sue) of Bryan College, TX, Ruth Hartwick (Bruce) of Overland Park, KS, and his sister-in-law Vickie Sandlin-Lanckriet (Jim) of Julesberg, CO; his children Dawn R. Hickey (Dan) of Mulvane, KS, and Cole M. Trent (Amanda) of Leon, KS; and his cherished grandchildren Racy, Paige, Treasure, Brooke, Derek, and Jakob, as well as four great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

Harry will be remembered for his unwavering work ethic, and his dedication to his family.  A memorial service will be held at Kansas Veterans’ Cemetery in Fort Dodge, KS. on September 6 at 2 pm.  Honors will be performed by the Navy Funeral Honors Burial Detail and the Southwest Kansas Veterans Funeral Honor Guard.  There will be a gathering afterwards at the Fort Dodge Eisenhower Hall.

He will be dearly missed by all who knew him.