Clarence Victor ‘Butch’ Krom, Jr., 76, passed away Feb. 14, 2026, at his home in Great Bend, Kan. He was born on Dec. 23, 1949, in Great Bend, to Clarence Victor, Sr., and Margaret (Ward) Krom. On Jan. 1, 1967, he married Peggy Read in Great Bend. She passed on Dec. 17, 2007.

A lifetime Great Bend resident, Butch had a multitude of careers. His working years started at Gibson’s Discount Center, then in the oil field, followed by Great Bend Packing Plant, Kansas Doors, and most recently Superior Essex. He enjoyed fishing, hunting – particularly coyotes and vermin, drag racing, hobby cars, and motorcycle riding, especially with his family.

Survivors include two daughters, Lisa Reif and husband Anthony of Omaha, Neb., and Leslie Taylor and husband Nick of Great Bend; four grandchildren, Rashelle Turner, Colby Barton, Taylor Lindberg, and Liam Reif; four great grandchildren; uncle, Ed Ward of Chase; nephew, Richard Ward and wife Rachael of Great Bend; significant other, Linda Bray of Great Bend; and beloved dog, Harley. He is preceded in death by his wife; parents; brother, Leon Ward; and sister, Sharon Ward.

Funeral service will be at 10 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 19, 2026, at Bryant Funeral Home, with Pastor Daniel Vandenburg presiding. Visitation will take place from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2026, with family receiving guests from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., all at Bryant Funeral Home. Memorials have been designated to the Golden Belt Humane Society, in care of Bryant Funeral Home, 1425 Patton Rd., Great Bend, KS 67530. Condolences may be sent and notice viewed at www.bryantfh.net.

Funeral arrangements provided by

Bryant Funeral Home

1425 Patton Rd.

Great Bend, KS 67530

Great Bend (Kan.) Tribune, Feb. 17, 2026