Beta Theta Pi - University of Kansas

8 M E M O R Y A N D O U R M YS T I C S H R I N E ALU MNI U P D AT E S Robert Banker '49 entered the Mystic Shrine on May 16, 2023. Following graduation, Bob began a 42-year career with Black and Veatch Consulting Engineers and was a partner when he retired. He was also an active member of Second Presbyterian Church for 74 years, serving as a Deacon, Elder, choir member, and in various other capacities. Bob developed some of his closest lifelong friendships through a singles group at the church, including future wife Nancy Reckewey, whom he married in 1955. Many of his fondest memories were days spent at his cabin at the Wauhillau Outing Club in Cherokee County, Okla. Following Nancy's death in 2017, Bob was especially grateful for the community of friends he made at Lakeview Village and for the companionship of Ann Ford, who was a special person to him. He is survived by daughter Beth and son Bill. Bob's family will remember him as a man of integrity, commitment and reliability, gratitude, and generosity. Hal E. Cleavinger '53 entered the Mystic Shrine on September 16, 2022. While at KU, he played football, made lifelong friendships at Beta house, and met Suzanne. He and Zannie spent 58 years together until her death in 2013. He was fortunate to find love again at the age of 85 and married Vergie in 2015. He spent many years working as a trust officer in various banks in Topeka, Kan., Sterling, Ill., and Goshen, Ind. When he retired, he and Zannie moved to North Carolina so he could enjoy golfing and spending time with his family. Hal was very friendly and could easily strike up a conversation with anyone. He loved the outdoors, golfing, and gardening, and he built a deck on every house they lived in. He is survived by Vergie and her three children, Chris, Donna, and Pat, and his four children, Kristi, Rus, Susan, and Teri. Delos "Dee" Lander '57 entered the Mystic Shrine on July 31, 2022. He was born September 23, 1935, in Wichita, Kan., attended Central High School in Tulsa, Okla., and graduated from KU in 1957 with a bachelor's degree of arts. He was married to Lois for 65 years, and they shared Delos, Engrid, John, and Sarah. Dee Ketchum '62 entered the Mystic Shrine on March 26, 2023. Dee leaves behind a legacy of devotion to family, faith, and community. He was a multi-talented individual, excelling in sports, education, and tribal leadership. Dee's love for his family was evident, cherished as a gift from the Lord. His passion extended to coaching, business, and service to the Delaware Tribe. Dee enjoyed 30 years of quality time at Grand Lake, Okla., from boating to golfing and powwows with his family. He also served as a deacon at First Baptist Church in Bartlesville, Okla. Survived by his wife, two daughters, five grandchildren, and nine great-grandchildren, his impact is felt by many. Dee leaves behind a loving family and a community enriched by his presence. Alan Phares '63 entered the Mystic Shrine on September 15, 2023. For 17 years, Alan worked at the Institute of Logopedics/Heartspring. His roles showcased his passion for helping those with special needs. It was during this time he met the love of his life, Loretta; they married in 1963. Following his tenure at the Institute, Alan became Director of the Wichita Business College for five years and later a financial planner, from which he retired in 2004. Alan and Loretta settled into a cozy house, where they raised children Rod, Tim, and Christy. They also opened their home to children from the Institute. Alan considered his most significant achievement to be the formation of a Boy Scout Troop at the Institute for the clients with cerebral palsy. Alan's life was enriched by his family, including his grandchildren. He was their biggest cheerleader at events. Throughout multiple health challenges over the years, Alan always maintained an optimistic spirit, reminding us to embrace life with humor and courage. Alan leaves behind a legacy of service, love, and laughter and will be dearly missed. Philip Ridenour '65 entered the Mystic Shrine on June 13, 2023. Phil's life journey was marked by resilience and dedication. His childhood, punctuated by his father's military service and malaria, shaped his early years. A standout student and athlete, he pursued English at the University of Kansas before transitioning to law. Phil's legal career spanned decades, marked by notable contributions and widespread recognition. Beyond his professional achievements, he was deeply involved in his community and cherished family life with his wife, Patricia, of nearly six decades. Phil's diverse interests and unwavering humor enriched the lives of those around him, leaving a legacy of positivity and love. Phil is survived by his wife, aunt, two sisters, three children, nine grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. Martin Pryor '83 entered the Mystic Shrine on December 2, 2023. He loved his alma mater and endowed the Martin R. Pryor Scholarship to support Oklahoma students aspiring in business at KU. After graduating, he earned his MBA at Southern Methodist University, where he met the love of his life, Megan. Martin and Megan were married in 1987 and moved to Connecticut later that year, where Martin was a VP at J.P. Morgan then a Managing Director at Citigroup and other banks in the NYC area. They welcomed Justin in 1993, Lauren in 1995, and Mitchell in 1999. Martin loved his children immensely and spent many years coaching and cheering them on. Martin was an avid golfer and was passionate about spending time on the course. While he was a truly exceptional player, he always welcomed and encouraged new players and shared his love of the game freely. Martin exemplified a life well-lived and leaves a legacy of deep family commitment, unwavering kindness, and unconditional love for his family and friends he called family.

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