Thursday, November 5, 2009

Former Kansas Gov. William Avery, who served one term in the Statehouse in the 1960s, has died. He was 98.

Gov. Mark Parkinson's office said Thursday that Avery, a Republican who served as governor from 1965-66, died Wednesday night. He served for 10 years as a congressman from the 2nd District before running for governor.

Born Aug. 11, 1911, Avery grew up on the family farm in Wakefield. After graduating from the University of Kansas he returned to Wakefield to farm and raise livestock.

Avery entered politics as a local school board member after a stint as a pilot in World War II. He then served in the Kansas House from 1951-55 before being elected to Congress.

Funeral services haven't been announced by the family.