Kenneth Oberhelman

Kenneth Alan Oberhelman, 71, of Bella Vista, AR., passed away Tuesday, February 24. He was born September 7, 1937 in Topeka, KS to Lyman Oberhelman and Ruby Storbeck Oberhelman. He is a graduate of Washburn Rural High School, served in the U.S. Army, and received a business degree from Washburn University in 1966.

He married Cherri Lee Bowers September 3, 1960 and resided in rural Topeka until 1995 when they retired to Bella Vista, AR. He was employed by Santa Fe for 31 years, retiring as the Director of Materials Management. He fully enjoyed his retirement spending time with family and friends, tinkering with his Model A, working with stained glass, and helping neighbors and friends with any projects they had. He was a member of the Highlands Methodist Church, Welcome Club, and member and past president of the Natural State Model A Club. He was a loving son, husband, father and grandfather.

Survivors include his wife of 48 years, Cherri Oberhelman; two sons and daughters-in-law, Kendall and Kimberly Oberhelman of San Antonio, TX and Don and D.D. Oberhelman of San Diego, CA; and two granddaughters, Kassidy and Karly. He was preceded in death by his parents, and brother Norman.

Cremation is planned. A memorial service will be held February 27 at the Highlands Methodist Church of Bella Vista at 1100 a.m. The family will also receive friends at a graveside service at Mount Hope Cemetery in Topeka on Saturday February 28 at 11: a.m. Penwell-Gabel Mid Town Chapel is assisting with arrangements. In lieu of flowers, please make contributions to dedicate a memorial walking trail bench and fruit tree to the Kenny Oberhelman Memorial fund c/o Arvest Bank, 1802 Forest Hills Blvd, Bella Vista, AR 72715.