Earl Lynn Vines, 78,  passed away April 7, 2025, at Sterling Village in Sterling, Kansas. He was born on March 6, 1947, to Chester D. Vines and Gladys Mae Hollaway in Great Bend, Kansas.

After high school Earl enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1967, where he proudly served in Vietnam as a combat medic. After being honorably discharged from the service, he was employed at Larned State Hospital. Upon leaving there, he went to work for Hutchinson High School as a Special Education Para until he retired in 2013. Earl spent his retirement enjoying time with Pat and the grandchildren whom he loved dearly, of which he was especially close with Timothy, his little man. He was a proud Grandpa.

Earl is survived by his beloved long time companion Patricia Gianakon and her children whom he loved as his own; Alexa (Robert) Cross of Hutchinson, Tina Gianakon of Hutchinson, Matthew (Brittni) Gianakon of Goddard, grandchildren;  Dylan Cross, Kendra Cross, Timothy Gianakon and Hailey Gianakon and great grandson Niko Cross.

He was preceded in death by his parents and sisters, Charlotte Ebert, Dalyne Gomez, and Marsha Pederson.

A memorial service will be held at a later date.