Ella Gertrude Kresky

Ella Gertrude Kresky of Salina, Kansas passed away peacefully on September 10, 2025, at Salina Regional Health Center after a brief illness.  She was surrounded by her family at the time of her passing.  Ella was very energetic 92-year-old and still living a full and joy filled life from her home at the time of her passing.  

Ella was born January 21, 1933, to Pete and Gertrude Christner on a farm near Lost Springs, Kansas. She was baptized April 6, 1947, in the Evangelical United Brethren Church in Lost Springs, KS. Living in rural America, Ella grew up on a farm without electricity and indoor plumbing. While growing up, she discovered the life-long hobbies of singing and playing the piano and organ. As an adult, she was a member of the Staccato Notes and the Dizzy Fingers music clubs. 

Upon graduation from high school, she moved to Salina, Kansas, where she was employed at Southwestern Bell Telephone. She soon met the love of her life, Bob Kresky, and they married in 1953. Life began in a small apartment, moving to a new home in 1958, then another new home in 1960. This home became the family hub for the remainder of Ella’s life. Bob passed away in 1997. Ella and Bob had a remarkable marriage. They were not just husband and wife – they were best friends. Until her last breath, Ella fondly remembered their many trips around North America, visiting 49 states and most of Canada.  

Ella and Bob started their family in January 1955. They were blessed with 3 sons. At that time, Ella became a full-time home maker, a role which she proudly fulfilled. She was a Room Mother for all 3 boys during grade school and was involved with PTA from grade school through high school.

As the children progressed through high school, Ella decided to return to the workforce.  She worked 13 years for USD 305 in food service.  After that, she worked for Salina Regional Health Center for many years as a cook until her retirement in 2005, at the age of 72. Then, Ella turned her talents to volunteering at the Information Desk until 2020. Many among us have either eaten her cooking or have been greeted by her happy smile at Salina Regional.

Ella was very involved in her church, working funeral dinners and Wednesday night suppers into her 90’s, as well as having served on the Fellowship Committee. She also enjoyed crocheting and being a part of the TLC prayer groups. Ella’s strong faith and her involvement brought much joy to her life.

Ella had many hobbies throughout the years. Besides those already mentioned, she also enjoyed oil painting and ceramics. She was a voracious reader and, of course, she greatly enjoyed keeping up with her friends – even when COVID pushed her to learn Facebook and Zoom.  

Ella was known for her positive attitude, helpfulness, being accepting and kindhearted. Her energy and spirit were known to many. Her joyful presence will be sorely missed.

Family was a constant theme throughout Ella’s life. She was the glue that held us all together. She had a sympathetic ear for all. Christmas Eve is THE holiday for the Kresky family, with all gathering together for Ella’s legendary chicken noodle soup. This was followed by attending church service.  

Ella was preceded in death by her husband, Bob, in 1997, her parents Pete and Gertrude Christner and her brothers Harold Christner and Leroy Christner.  

Ella is survived by her 3 sons, Steve (Debbie) Kresky, Tim (Kathy) Kresky, and Dana (Kari) Kresky, her grandchildren, Courtney (Zack) Kempke, Ryan Kresky, Brandon (Leslie) Kresky, Melissa Kresky, Jacob Kresky, Connor Kresky and great grandchildren Christina Kempke and Thomas Kempke, Mackenzie Kresky, and Robyn Kresky, a brother Wendel (Debi) Christner, many nieces, nephews and friends.  

Visitation will be held from 4 to 8 PM, Friday, September 12 at Ryan Mortuary in Salina, Kansas.  The family will be present from 6 to 8.  The funeral service will be held at 1 PM, Saturday, September 13 at United Methodist Church of the Cross in Salina, Kansas.  Following the funeral, a grave-side service will be conducted at the Highland Cemetery in Minneapolis, Kansas, where Ella will be laid to rest beside her husband Bob.  

Memorials can be made to the United Method Church of the Cross or the Emergency Aid Food Bank, both in Salina, Kansas.

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