Harold J. "Boots" Blazek, age 85, died Tuesday, October 8, 2013 at Woodhaven Care Center in Ellinwood, Kansas. He was born June 2, 1928 at Claflin, Kansas the son of Joseph and Amelia (Galliardt) Blazek. Boots, a lifelong Claflin resident, graduated from Claflin High School and also attended Salt City Business College. He served his country in the United States Army during the Korean Conflict. He was a lifetime member of VFW Ralph B. Praeger Post #8668 in Claflin, and the American Legion in Holyrood, Kansas. Boots enjoyed watching sports, golfing, spending time with his family, and his dog, Mindy. On January 11, 1959 he married Nedra Clay at Great Bend, Kansas. Survivors include his wife, Nedra Blazek, of the home; two sons, Mark Blazek and wife Becky of Salina, Kansas, Joe Blazek of Great Bend, Kansas; one daughter Kristi Blazek and husband Greg Burkhart of Palmer Lake, Colorado; four grandchildren, Sara Brownfield, Molly Skeen, Patrick Blazek, and Tyler Blazek. He was preceded in death by his parents; two sisters, Helen Mullenix, and Clara Mullenix. Funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, October 11, 2013 at Nicholson-Ricke Funeral Home, Hoisington, Kansas with Reverend Don Fisher officiating. Burial will follow at Claflin Cemetery with military graveside rites conducted by the Ft. Riley Honor Guard. Friends may call Thursday, October 10, 2013 from 2:00 until 8:00 p.m. at Nicholson - Ricke Funeral Home, Hoisington, Kansas. Memorials are suggested to Claflin Recreation Commission or Wounded Warrior Project in care of Nicholson-Ricke Funeral Home, P.O. Box 146, Hoisington, Kansas 67544.