Junior John Hultgren, 75, of White City, Kansas passed away Friday, March 21, 2014, at his residence.
He was born August 23, 1938 in White City, to Alfred and Edna (Timm) Hultgren.
Junior grew up and spent his entire life in White City. He graduated from White City High School and then became a self-employed businessman. He started his own welding business at the west edge of White City, working at creating and repairing many things for local farmers. He then began a custom combining and haying business, with a couple of employees, for several farmers in the area in the late 1960’s. That soon grew into leasing of ground at Ft. Riley for haying which he did for many years, along with his father, cousin, sons and several other employees. He bought and tore down buildings for salvage at Ft. Riley as well. In the early 1970’s, he took over a house moving company from Dr. Bowers in Council Grove. That soon became his full time occupation, lasting until his retirement 2 years ago. Junior was known by many people in a 100 mile radius of White City for his moving abilities.
Junior served his community as a volunteer fireman and city councilman. He owned the Huskie Hangout for several years, because he said it helped “to keep the kids off the streets”.
Junior’s work, family, friends and KU Basketball were what he was most proud of. He truly never met a stranger.
He was preceded in death by his parents, wife Cleta, daughter Sherri Hultgren and sister Darlene Peatling.
Junior is survived by his special friend Sue Metcalfe, of the home; sons, Dale Hultgren, of Salina and John Hultgren and wife Sherry, of Chapman; three grandchildren, Tylor and fiance' Samantha Goebel, Chance and Justin Hultgren; sister, Nessie Brown and husband George, of Kansas City; and a host of friends.
Memorial contributions may be made to Dickinson County Home Health and Hospice or to Junior Hultgren Memorial Scholarship Fund. They may be sent in care of Penwell-Gabel, PO Box 273, Council Grove, KS 66846.