Foster Dieckhoff died unexpectedly on January 31, 2013. He was born October 21, 1948 in Stuttgart, Kansas to Ray and Eileen Dieckhoff. He was raised on the family farm in Phillips County, Kansas where he acquired his life-long love of nature and all things mechanical. He graduated from Fort Hays State University with a degree in mathematics. After completing his Master's degree in mathematics from Kansas State University, he went on to work on his doctorate in mathematics until he was recruited for employment with the Kansas Department of Administration in 1974.

Foster moved to Kansas City in 1978 to accept a position as Manager of Research & Development with the City of Kansas City, Missouri Human Resource Department. He remained with the City until his retirement in 2003 as Manager of Finance & Administration of the Convention & Entertainment Center. Foster married his best friend, Anita Rodarte in 1984 and they remained sweethearts until his death. Foster and his wife loved touring on their bicycles throughout the United States, and parts of Europe and Asia. His many friends enjoyed and will miss his infectious laugh, humor, wit and keen intellect. While he enjoyed travels all over the world, he remained proud of his roots as a farm boy. His many passions and talents included gourmet cooking, science, antique tools, and unraveling mechanical challenges.

Foster was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Ken Dieckhoff, sister Raleen Dieckhoff and brother-in-law, John Rodarte. Survivors include his wife Anita, and his in-law family, mother Pat Rodarte, father Robert Rodarte, brothers Bob Rodarte and Jim Rodarte, sisters Christina Greenbaum and Marguerite Hogan as well as his beloved nieces and nephews.

Graveside services will be held at 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, February 6, 2013 in the Emmanuel Evangelical Lutheran Cemetery, Stuttgart, Kansas, with Pastor Shelley Klingensmith officiating. A celebration of life will be held in Kansas City at a date and location to be determined.

Friends may sign the register book from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday at the Olliff-Boeve Memorial Chapel, 1115 2nd Street, Phillipsburg, Kansas 67661. The casket will remain closed.

Memorial contributions may be made to Foster Dieckhoff Memorial Fund to be designated at a later time.