George M. “Max” Ridler, age 91, of Hays passed away Tuesday, September 15, 2015 at Via Christi Village, Hays. He was born February 15, 1924 in Coffeyville, KS to Arthur Arnold and Gladys (Walton) Ridler. He graduated from Labette County High School in 1941. He married Frances Herrman June 28, 1944 in Hutchinson, Kansas.

Max was a retired Navy Chief Petty Officer with over 20 years of service. During his service to our country he received numerous medals including the Navy and Marine Corp Commendation Medal which is our Nation’s highest non-combat award given. He received this award for helping to rescue a fighter pilot from his plane. He also worked at the Hays Post Office after his retirement from the Navy and he worked there until 1974. He was a member of the Hays American Legion, The Hays VFW where he served as commander. He was also a member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church.

He is survived by his wife, Frances of Hays; three sons, Robert and wife Melody of Mannsville, NY, James and wife Donna of Buffalo, MN and Randy and wife Pam of Castle Rock, CO; five grandchildren, Marcella Keiwitt, Christopher Ridler, Michael Ridler, Ryan Ridler and Lance Ridler as well as 6 great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a daughter, Gladys Carey.

Funeral services will be 11AM Monday, September 21, 2015 at the Kansas Veterans’ Cemetery in WaKeeney.

Visitation will be Sunday 6 PM – 8 PM and Monday 9:45 AM – 10:15 AM at Brock’s-Keithley Funeral Chapel and Crematory 2509 Vine Hays, KS 67601.

A combined parish vigil and rosary service will be at 7 PM Sunday at the funeral chapel.

Condolences may be sent by guest book to www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com or emailed to [email protected].