Allen Brungardt

Allen Edward Brungardt, age 81, of Hays, Kansas passed away Thursday, January 22nd, 2026, at the Good Samaritan Society, Ellis. He was born June 27, 1944, in Hays to Edward and Cyrilla (Meis) Brungardt.

Allen married Gloria (Baier) on May 9th, 1964, at Saint Joseph's Catholic Church in Hays. He retired in 2009 after 43 years as a route salesman for the Jewel Tea Company. Known by many as “The Jewel Tea Man” Allen was a familiar and welcome sight driving his van throughout Hays and the surrounding areas. His easygoing humorous nature made him someone people genuinely enjoyed being around. Allen was always willing to lend a helping hand assisting family, friends and neighbors in whatever they needed. He was known for being quite a jokester, with his quick wit bringing smiles and laughter to those who knew him best.

Allen was always on the go. He loved golfing, bowling, fishing, hunting, traveling and spending time with friends, however his greatest joy was his family, especially his grandchildren and great grandchildren. He rarely missed an opportunity to attend their activities and was proud to support them in all they did.

Allen was a member of Saint Joseph's Catholic Church and an active member of the Saint Joseph's 3rd degree Knights of Columbus Council #1325. He truly enjoyed participating in fundraising efforts including selling raffle tickets, the Tootsie Roll drive and always looked forward to the annual golf tournament.

Allen’s battle with Alzheimer’s during his final years did not diminish the bond and love shared with his family. His kindness, laughter and love will always be remembered.

He is survived by his wife, Gloria of Hays; his children, Jeff Brungardt (Tiffany) of Sioux City, Iowa, Jerold Brungardt (Amy) of Hays and Kerri Dreher (Steve) of Hutchinson; his siblings, Lorraine Brungardt of Hays, Elmer Brungardt (Patty) of Hays, Earl Brungardt (Shirley) of Hays and Lorrinda Schmeidler (Neal) of Wichita; 10 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren.

Allen was preceded in death by his parents, a granddaughter, Kirsten Brungardt, a great granddaughter, Hazel Ramage and a brother-in-law, Gilbert Brungardt.

Funeral services will be 10:30 AM Saturday, January 31, 2026 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Hays. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.

Visitation will be Friday 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM with a combined rosary and parish vigil service at 7:00 PM. Saturday visitation will be from 9:30 AM – 10:00 AM all at Keithly Funeral Homes and Crematory-Brock’s Chapel 2509 Vine Hays, KS 67601.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the St. Joseph’s Knights of Columbus Council #1325 or for Masses in Allen’s memory.

Please share memories and words of comfort on Allen’s tribute page at www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com