Mitch Lee Dougherty

Mitchel ‘Mitch’ Lee Dougherty, 67, of Russell, Kansas, passed away Wednesday, January 21st, 2026 at the Hays Medical Center in Hays, Kansas surrounded by his family.

Mitch was born September 3rd, 1958 in Hoisington, Kansas. He was one of three children born to William (Bill) and Betty (Hilgenberg) Dougherty. He grew up in Dorrance, Kansas and graduated from Russell High School in the Class of 1976. He then attended Kansas University, walking on to the KU football team as a punter.

Mitch was united in marriage to Audrey Ptacek on October 17, 1981 in Russell. This union was blessed with two daughters, Kathleen and Bethany. They later divorced in 1995 and remained close friends. Mitch took great pride in his daughters and was always ready to offer encouragement, love, and support.

Mitch spent the majority of his life working in the oil field. He started out working for Mahoney Implement then working for Murfin Drilling on pulling units, then later with Continental Oil as a pumper, and ultimately an independent contract pumper. He also helped his father on the family farm for many years. He enjoyed the outdoors; hunting, fishing, trap shooting, slow pitch softball and playing golf. But it was his daughters and grandchildren that brought the biggest smiles to his face.

Becoming a grandfather brought him immense joy, and he cherished every moment spent with his grandchildren, whether it was sharing stories, attending activities, or simply enjoying time together. His love for his family was constant and evident.

After being diagnosed with COPD, Mitch faced the disease with remarkable strength, courage and resilience for many years. Ultimately deciding on quality of life, rather than quantity. Although he will be dearly missed by his family, he is now pain free and restored to the Mitch we knew and loved.

Mitch’s surviving family include his daughters, Kathleen Cook (Matt) of Hays, Kansas and Bethany Remus (Nolan) of Cawker City, Kansas; sisters, Vicki Scott of Russell, Kansas and Joetta Steckman (Leroy) of Russell, Kansas; former wife, Audrey Dougherty of Russell, KS; and three grandchildren, Ace Remus, Vale Remus, and Thea Cook.

Mitch was preceded in death by his parents; and two brothers-in-law, Randy Powell and Howard Scott.

The family will be conducting private services at a later date. Cremation has been selected by the family. Condolences may be sent to Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary, who is in charge of these arrangements.