Joseph Michael Ames

Joseph Michael Ames, 79, passed away Monday, June 18, 2018 in Wichita, KS. He was born February 17, 1939 in Winfield, KS, the son of Arthur Malone Ames and Juanita Irene (Hodge) Ames He is survived by his wife Sharon Higley Ames who still resides in their home in Moline. He is also survived by his daughter Julie Ames McElroy and son, Michael Ames, granddaughters, Alexa McElroy, Amanda McElroy Stoafer, Ashlynn McElroy, Abby McElroy, Ciera Ames Wilson and grandson, Jake Ames; great grandchildren, Elijah Rodriguez, Ezra McElroy and Gracie McElroy. He is preceded in death by his parents, Arthur Malone Ames and Juanita Ames Hodge, his brothers Robert (Bob) Ames and Mahlon (Red) Ames. Joe graduated from Emporia State University in 1963 with a Bachelor’s in Business Administration. He started his career with Boeing in Wichita, but his true calling was with the State of Kansas as a Social Worker, devoting 30 years of service. Joe had a love of music and singing. He was the worship leader at the United Methodist church for numerous years and continued his singing at Howard Twilight Manor and Pleasant Valley Manor on a weekly basis. He provided so much joy to the residents and staff. Joe was a man who never knew a stranger and always had a smile on his face. He overcame great obstacles in his life and continued to always have a sweet spirit about him. He was a blessing to all those he came in contact with. He was a very proud father and grandfather and never failed to always remind them how proud he was. The legacy he leaves behind will always be remembered and cherished. Funeral services will be held Friday, June 22, 2018 at 11:00 AM at Countryside Funeral Home in Howard, with Pastor Susan Galvan officiating, burial to follow at Moline City Cemetery. Visitation will be held Thursday, June 21, 2018 from 5-7 PM at the funeral home. Online condolences may be left at: www.countrysidefh.com. Memorials have been suggested to either the Moline United Methodist Church or the Pleasant Valley Nursing Home and may be left with or mailed to the funeral home. Services are entrusted to: Countryside Funeral Home 206 E. Washington, P.O. Box 1233, Howard, KS 67349

Joseph Michael Ames

February 17, 1939 - June 18, 2018