William Jack Kays passed away on February 16, 2015 in Kennewick, Washington. He was born on January 18, 1931 to Leland and Helen Kays in Ellensburg, Washington. Jack married Kay Grove on February 3, 1955 and raised three daughters, Rhyll, Carol and Lori. In 1949 he graduated from Kittitas High School. Jack served in the Army as a lineman in Korea in 1951 and 1952. Twice enemy shells landed in front of him but both were duds. His nickname was "Trapper". He began his career with Northern Pacific Railroad in 1955 and retired as a switchman in 1993. Jack was an avid storyteller and enjoyed debating current affairs. He was known to switch positions if the conversation lagged. He loved to debate religion, politics and economics. His hobbies included trapping, rock hunting, playing poker and traveling to Jackpot, Nevada. Jack was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his wife, Kay; his daughters, Rhyll (Stewart) Sharpe of Kennewick; Carol (Tim Henle) of Snohomish; Lori (Scott) Sanders of Kennewick; nine grandchildren and six great-grandchildren; and dog, Jethro. A memorial service will be held on Friday, February 20, 2015, 1:00 p.m., at Mueller's Tri-Cities Funeral Home, located at 1401 S. Union Street, Kennewick, WA. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Humane Society.