Loren Dean Reusser, a longtime fixture of Kansas education, athletics and community service, died peacefully on July 17, 2026, in Wichita, surrounded by family. He was 93.
Reusser was born December 9, 1932, in Walton, Kansas, to Abraham C. and Mabel Reusser. Known to friends by the nickname “Drip,” he built a reputation across the Hesston and Newton communities for his faith, work ethic, and sharp sense of humor. Family members say he approached every stage of life with the same energy and drive, never appearing to slow down even as he aged.
In 1954, he married Peggy Stout, and the couple spent 70 years together before her death. Their marriage produced three daughters, seven grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren, a family that gathered at his bedside in his final days.
A Career of Teaching, Travel and Reinvention
Reusser’s professional life took him through several roles in education. He taught at Hesston College before spending three years as a missionary in Taiwan starting in 1966. After returning home, he worked as a business manager at Tabor College and later taught at Eastern Mennonite College and Bethel College, where he also coached cross country and track athletes.
At age 54, Reusser made an unexpected career change, becoming an over-the-road truck driver. He stayed behind the wheel until he was 86, a choice family and friends say reflected his belief that it was never too late to try something new.
His faith remained central throughout his life. As a devoted Mennonite, he was active in his church and supported organizations including the Mennonite Central Committee, often saying that faith was meant to be lived out through action rather than words alone.
A Familiar Face at Bethel College Games
Beyond the classroom, Reusser became something of a local celebrity at Bethel College sporting events. He was known for tending his garden between games and for handing out fresh kettle corn to fans, often tossing bags into the crowd with the same enthusiasm he brought to everything else.
That devotion did not go unnoticed. Bethel College Athletics posted a tribute on Instagram calling him a true pillar of the program and one of the greatest supporters Thresher Nation has known.
The post noted that his impact would continue to be felt for generations. Comments poured in from former athletes and fans, with many calling him the heart of the Threshers and thanking him for his decades of support.
Reusser was preceded in death by his wife, Peggy, and daughter Sharon. He is survived by daughters Judy Reusser and Susan Pechanec, along with grandchildren and great-grandchildren across the family.
A funeral service will be held at Faith Mennonite Church in Newton, Kansas, on July 31 at 10 a.m. Instead of flowers, the family is asking for memorial donations to Faith Mennonite Church, Bethel College, or the Mennonite Central Committee in honor of his lifelong commitment to faith, education, and service.
