John Kanelakos, 59, Remembered After Overnight Search Ends In Rural Cowley County Watershed East Of Silverdale On May 6, 2026
John Kanelakos, 59, was found dead on May 6, 2026, after an overnight search in a rural watershed east of Silverdale in Cowley County, Kansas.
Deputies began searching around 2:45 a.m. after a property owner found a pickup truck nearby with its engine still running and no driver present.
Search teams later found boots near the water, which shifted attention toward the watershed as boats, search dogs, mounted units, and dive teams joined the effort.
At about 10:30 a.m., the dive team located Kanelakos in the water, and authorities pronounced Kanelakos dead at the scene.
Officials said early information suggests Kanelakos may have entered the water while trying to rescue a calf, though they have not confirmed that detail.
Authorities said an autopsy will determine the exact cause of death, and the inquiry remains ongoing.
Memorial and funeral service details will be announced later by family members.
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