John Everett Thelander, 78, of Salina, passed away Saturday, October 10, 2020. He was born June 9, 1942 in Salina to Melvin and Edith (Applequist) Thelander.

John married Sharon Taylor on December 30, 1963. He owned and operated East Crawford Vickers from 1967-83 before farming fulltime. He was a member of First Covenant Church in Salina.

During his life he raced boats, drag raced cars, raced motorcycles, and more recently built hot rods. 

Survivors include: his wife of 56 years, Sharon; son, John R. Thelander (Kellie), of Salina; sister, Elaine Morse (Paul), of Marion; grandchildren, Kajsa Erickson (Alex), Jacob, Kaitlyn, Josiah (Emilee), Klaira and Karley Thelander; and great-grandson, Jeffrey.

He is preceded in death by his parents.

Visitation will be from 4-8 p.m. Wednesday, October 14, at Ryan Mortuary, Salina, with family present from 6-8.

Funeral services will be at 2 p.m. Thursday, October 15, at First Covenant Church, Salina, with burial to follow in Gypsum Hill Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to First Covenant Church for Men’s Ministries, in care of Ryan Mortuary.