Theodore E. “Ted” Hutchcraft, 75, of Highland, died Saturday evening, January 17, 2015, at Wathena Nursing and Rehabilitation Center.

Ted was born at Paradise, KS, October 24, 1939, one of four children of L.E. “Ed” and Blossom Elliott Hutchcraft. He grew up in the Nacoma community and went all the way through school where he was very active in sports. Ted worked with his Dad starting at an early age to learn the carpentry trade. Not only when he came home from college did he work in carpentry, when moving to Highland he worked when he could helping Lawrence Lewis. Ted graduated from Fort Hayes Teachers College with a bachelor’s degree and later had several hours towards a master’s degree. His first and only teaching assignment was at Highland starting in the fall of 1961 where he taught mathematics of all types. Through the years, he was very active with the school youth in sports of all types including cross country, summer track, and summer baseball. At one point, he served as assistant principal of Highland High School. Ted was devoted to the Highland youth not only in sports, but especially when it came to math. If someone was having problems, it was not uncommon to find Ted at school early, spending lunch hours, or after school to help students understand and able to succeed. Even after he retired in 1998 after 37 years of services, he still did substitute teaching for the next 3 years.

Mr. Hutchcraft was a longtime member of Highland Christian Church. He was a charter and dedicated member of Highland Lions Club where he had served as secretary for many years; and also had served as district governor. He was active with the Highland Senior Citizens Center; BPOE #1741, Hiawatha Elks Lodge. When teaching, he was a member of professional organizations NEA and KNEA. While in college, he belonged to Tau Kappa Epilson Fraternity.

Survivors include a brother Douglas Hutchcraft of Ottawa, KS; two sisters: Marlene Phillips of Mulvane, KS, Delores Hocker of Midlothian, TX; and a host of other relatives and friends. Also surviving are special friends the Larry O’Bryan family of Highland.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and an infant son Grant E. Hutchcraft, August 13, 1970.

Friends may call at Chapel Oaks Funeral Home in Highland from 12 noon Tuesday until 7 that evening, with cremation to follow.

A Memorial celebration of Ted’s life is planned for 1 p.m. Wednesday, January 21, at the Highland Christian Church. Jerry Petering will officiate, with J.B. Skaggs assisting. Private inurnment will be at a later date at Highland Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to USD #111 Foundation at Highland which may be sent in care of the funeral home, PO Box 33, 66035. A special message may be left at www.chapeloaksfuneralhome.com