https://www.midwest-cremation.com/

Midwest Cremation, Inc., 525 SE. 37th Street, Topeka, KS (2026)

09/01/2026

Elwyn Lowell Miller

Beloved Husband, Dad, Grandpa, and Great-Grandpa Elwyn Lowell Miller, age 91, entered the loving arms of His Lord and Savior on August 19, 2026. Elwyn lived in the Topeka, Perry, and Silver Lake areas for most of his life.

Elwyn was born in Miller, Kansas, on January 18, 1935, to Hiram and Lois Miller. He grew up on a farm and ran farm equipment from a very young age. He was the last to graduate from the one-room schoolhouse in Miller, a fact he proudly shared with his family on a tour of where he grew up. A natural tinkerer with a mechanical mind, Elwyn co-owned and operated Downtown Auto Service in Topeka, Kansas, for over 30 years. He also proudly served in the Army National Guard and retired from the Kansas Air National Guard.

Elwyn married the love of his life, Joan Miriam Lindbloom, on June 23, 1956. They shared a beautiful love story for over 56 years. Their union was blessed with two daughters, Kathy Fritz (Douglas) of Belleville, and Sheri Miller of Godley, Texas. He cherished his three grandchildren—Nathan Fritz, Christa Hodgson, and Jennifer Watkins. He and Joan attended every game, musical, and birthday of their grandchildren. Lovingly referred to as G-Gpa, he also doted on more of his favorite people—his great-granddaughters Faye, Felicity, Daphne, and Caroline. He referred to them as the “greatest thing that ever happened.” He often wore shirts proudly identifying himself as a Grandpa and later Great-Grandpa.

Elwyn was a man of deep faith. His love for Jesus and his family was abundantly clear. He modeled what true love was as he acted as a selfless caretaker for Joan until her death. He ended every conversation telling his family how much he loved them. He enjoyed being around kids, and he was very attached to his four-legged companions. His dogs Molly and Annie were well-loved! He’d always say, “God did good when he made kids and dogs!” A bit of a daredevil, he jumped out of a plane on his 80th birthday! His life was a testament to the power of faith, family, fun, and enduring love. His presence brought comfort, joy, and laughter to all.

Elwyn’s favorite passage in Scripture was Ephesians 4 where unity in the body of Christ and living as children of light is discussed. Verse 1 challenges us to “live a life worthy of the calling you have received.” Elwyn most certainly did. He leaves behind a legacy of love and faith that will continue to inspire and guide his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Though he is deeply missed, our family finds great peace and joy knowing he is in Heaven, reunited with his bride. What a joyous reunion that must have been!

Elwyn was preceded in death by his wife Joan, his parents, and his brothers Joseph and Byron. He is survived by his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and an abundance of people inspired by his life.

A private burial next to Joan will take place at a later date.

View Elwyn Lowell Miller's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

08/31/2026

Thomas Smith

Thomas Smith, 75, of Topeka, KS passed away Wednesday, August 26, 2026,

He was born January 17, 1951, in Topeka, KS the son of Wayne and Katheryn Nadene (Mendenhall) Smith.

Tom graduated high school while serving in the US Navy where he served for two years of active duty and another four years in the reserves.

He enjoyed music and played it all his life.

Tom is survived by a stepson, Kevin Bratt, a sister, Cynthia (Smith) Engroff and her husband Jerry and one grandson.

He was preceded in death by two sisters, Tess Spencer, Rosalie Ross and a brother Duane Smith.

Cremation has taken place. No services are planned.

View Thomas Smith's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

08/31/2026

Charles Franklin Ledford Jessepe

Charles Franklin Ledford Jessepe, 75, passed away peacefully on August 20, 2026, at Midland Hospice House.

Charles was born on September 15, 1950. Throughout his life, he worked as a mechanic for the railroad, dedicating many years to a profession that required hard work, skill, and commitment.

Charles shared his life with his wife, Leslie Louise Jessepe. Though words can never fully capture the life of a person, Charles will be remembered as someone who lived his life in his own way and whose presence touched those who knew him.

As we remember Charles, we honor the years he was given, the work he accomplished, and the memories he leaves behind. His life was one of value and meaning, and he will be remembered by those who had the privilege of knowing him.

Charles passed away peacefully at Midland Hospice House, surrounded by the care and compassion of those who attended to him in his final days.

He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

Cremation arrangements are under the care of Midwest Cremation.

View Charles Franklin Ledford Jessepe's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

08/31/2026

Judy Lynn Lotz

Judy Lynn Lotz, 75, of Topeka, passed away peacefully at home on August 27, 2026, with her devoted husband, John, by her side.

Born on July 30, 1951, to Herman and Christina Lehman, Judy was the youngest of 18 children. Being the family baby was a title she proudly held for 75 years, and one she never let her older siblings forget.

Judy and John were united in marriage on October 13, 1990, and shared 35 wonderful years filled with love, laughter, and companionship.

Judy is survived by her husband, John; her children, Michael Lehman and his husband, Peter; Donna Woods; Natalie Hatcher and her husband, Eric; and stepdaughter Lisa Hase-Jackson and her husband, Gary. She is also survived by her sisters, Louise Rahe and Ruth Simnitt; her beloved niece Geraldine, who was like a sister to her; seven grandchildren; and one great-grandchild.

If you knew Judy, you knew she was a die-hard KU basketball fan who also cheered enthusiastically for the Chiefs and Royals. She loved cooking and baking and rarely let anyone leave her home hungry. Her chocolate chip cookies, oatmeal scotchies, Kahlúa cake, macaroni and cheese, beef and barley soup, meatloaf, double-breaded pork chops, and baked mostaccioli will be remembered almost as fondly as the woman who made them.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

View Judy Lynn Lotz's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

08/31/2026

Darrell Keith Weaverling

Darrell Keith Weaverling, 94, went home to Glory on Sunday, August 23, 2026. He was one of seven children born to Arch and Vera Weaverling and was born on October 6 or 12, 1931 (that’s a story for another time) in Hunter, Kansas. He graduated from Mankato High School in 1952 and served in the Army during the Korean Conflict until 1954. He attained the rank of Sergeant and was a direction finder in the 49th Field Artillery. While bombarding a target for 24 hours straight, Darrell lost most of his hearing due to nerve damage. He was awarded the United Nations Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal, and the Korean Service Medal with 2 Bronze Stars.

Darrell married Shirley Lou Wilsman on July 11, 1954. He first saw her when she moved to Mankato and he loved to tell the story that after he laid eyes on her through the door of the 8th grade classroom, he told all of the high school boys, “She’s mine!” Darrell enrolled at Kansas State University on the GI Bill and they moved to Manhattan where he worked at Western Auto. They later moved to Topeka in 1960 and he took a job with Sears, Roebuck, & Co. He was a great salesman, and spent the next 30 years providing folks with their televisions and stereos. Darrell also had an early morning paper route for over 20 years, faithfully rising at 3:00 am and heading down to pick up his allotment of Topeka Capitol-Journal newspapers.

Darrell was a member of West Side Baptist Church for many years and later at Wanamaker Woods Church of the Nazarene. His closest friendships were formed from his church family. Darrell and Shirley took many wonderful trips with these friends and enjoyed a monthly dinner bridge club for years. He was a great bridge player, always looking to bid a slam. He also enjoyed playing golf and tennis. In his youth, he was a basketball star at Mankato High.

Darrell was a faithful husband, devoted father, and diligent provider. He was a wonderful story teller with a delightful sense of humor. He was a great role model to his family and will be sorely missed.

Darrell was predeceased by his wife Shirley, his parents, Arch and Vera, and his siblings: Betty Walker, Lois Hill, Robert Weaverling, Norma Beasley, Rex Weaverling, and Joyce Ann Weaverling. He was also predeceased by his granddaughter Amanda Olinger, grandson Noah Swickard, and his son-in-law Jeffrey Powell. He is survived by a myriad of nieces and nephews whom he loved dearly.

Darrell and Shirley have 3 children: Tamara (Jeff) Powell, Kurt (Melissa) Weaverling, and Amy (Mike) Swickard. They have 16 grandchildren: Josh (Emily) Powell, Jaymie (Casey) Moore, Jenna (Jonathan) Runyan, Joy (Billy) Davenport, Jeriel (Keith) Fine, Joanna (Joshua) Powell, Abby (Mike) Peoples, Faith Birtell, Caleb Powell, Amanda (Austin) Olinger, Savanah (Brandon) Weaverling, Garrett (Olivia) Swickard, Andrew Swickard, Sarah (Giovann) Thorne, Rachel (Tristan) Webb, and Noah Keith Swickard. They currently have 32 great-grandchildren: Halleigh, Hayden, and Hunter Powell; Clara, Jackson, and Miriam Moore; Emma, Thomas, Luke, Simon, Judah, and Josephine Runyan; Liam, Colton, Marshall, Sawyer, and Grayson Darrell Davenport; Charley, Paisley, Wesley, and Jeffrey Fine; Ellie, Ivy, Gideon, and Madison Powell; Milo and Jonah Peoples; Wyatt and Claire Olinger; Amelia Thorne; Harper and Whitley Webb.

Darrell trusted in Christ and is now enjoying his eternal reward with the love of his life, Shirley. Even as he aged and lost most of his sight, as well as his hearing, he did not complain and assured his children that he was fine, had no pain, and that the folks at Legend at Capital Ridge always treated him well. He had a great sense of humor, loved his K-State Wildcats as well as the KC Chiefs and KC Royals.

There will be a celebration of Darrell and Shirley’s lives at a later date.

Gifts in Darrell’s memory may be made to Disabled American Veterans, 9111 E Douglas, Suite 200, Room 210, Wichita, KS 67207.

View Darrell Keith Weaverling's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

08/31/2026

James Milton Meyer

James Milton Meyer, age 99, of Topeka, Kansas, passed away on August 25, 2026.

He was born on February 23, 1927, in Milwaukie, Wisconsin, to Jacob and Lulu Meyer.

Jim will be remembered for his faith, quiet strength, and devotion to his family. He is survived by his children, Michael Meyer (Carol Meyer), Diana Redmann (Michael Redmann), and Susan Gray, his grandchildren, Jessica Renyer (Matthew Renyer), Christopher Cleereman, Kristine Norton, Michael Redmann Jr. (Mikaela Redmann), grandson-in-law, Andrew Heath, and his great grandchildren Nate Heath, Jon Michael Heath, Dayla Wallace, Tristan Cleereman, and Mason Redmann, and sisters Shirley and Irene.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Johanna Meyer, daughter, Patricia Meyer, granddaughter, Kathrine Heath, daughter-in-law, Dianna Meyer, 5 brothers, Jacob, Raymond, Robert, Harold, and Elmer and 5 sisters, Peggy, Ruth, Lillian, Sophie, and Louella.

His family is grateful for the kindness and support shown during this time. A memorial service will be held on September 26th at Steak Grill Shelter in Gage Park at 12:30 on Munn Memorial Drive.

View James Milton Meyer's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

08/27/2026

Billie Jean Bonnett

Billie Jean Bonnett, 77, of Topeka, KS, was born July 4, 1949, in Blue Springs, MO, from the love of William and Cleo Lutes. If she was a boy, they would have named her Jr, so instead they named her Billie.

Billie was humble, loving, dedicated, strong woman. She always fought for what she believed in because she knew it was God's plan. Anyone that truly knew her knew that her heart was pure gold. Her gentle soul brought warmth to all that she touched.

Billie grew up in Blue Springs, MO graduating from Blue Springs High School and moved to St. Louis, MO to pursue her passion for nursing. She served the VA hospital for over 20 years. Her passion led her to the love of her life, Lewis Bonnett Sr. uniting in marriage, August 10, 1988. Her family was her heart, always bragging how proud she was of her children and grandchildren.

Growing up enjoyed days on the farm with her grandmother, wood making with her father, reading, writing, (so good her English teacher begged her to be a writer not a nurse) playing the guitar, and her love for God. To this day she still has her first Bible from her grandmother

Billie is survived by her children, twins Tia Marie Bonnett, Tio Diablo Bonnett, Ty Lewis Bonnett and Todd William Bonnett, two sisters Candy (David) Holden and Debbie McFarland

Two brothers Joe Sr and William Jr. Other survivors include her grandchildren, Abrielle Crystyle , Tyree Joshua, Jamelle Jr (Mel Mel), Alyssa Kaye, Tariq William, Taavi Marie Jean, Tyson Lewis, Ariel Jean, and soon to be introduced Amyra , and a host of other relatives

She was preceded in death by her parents William and Cleo Lutes, her husband, Lewis Bonnett, Sr. and a sister, Mary Anne Lutes.

Cremation has taken place. At a later date, Billie will be laid to rest with her late husband, Lewis, at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery, St. Louis, MO.

View Billie Jean Bonnett's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

08/26/2026

Tim Dennis McCracken

A wonderful man, Tim Dennis McCracken, age 73, passed from this life to eternity on August 5th, 2026. He courageously battled cancer until it was clear his only healing would be the ultimate kind.

Tim was a faithful, loving husband and dedicated father and a loyal and true friend. Since his passing, many people have reached out, especially neighbors and co-workers, who he helped in times of need. He was well liked and known for his non-judgmental nature and good humor. It was clear he had learned to put first things first and to live and let live. He loved well and was deeply loved by those who knew him best.

Tim was born Oct. 16th, 1952, in Wolf Point, MT, to William Burton “Bill” McCracken and Hope Elizabeth (Casey) McCracken and grew up there, as well as Cheyenne, WY, and finally Albuquerque, NM.

In Albuquerque, he played football (a sport he enjoyed since age 3 or 4) and graduated from Sandia High School. He then attended the University of New Mexico, primarily studying history, and graduated with a Bachelor's degree.

Tim was intelligent and always had a great work ethic, doing well both in business and physical labor. At age 21, he was the youngest manager of a Napa Auto Parts store. Later, he travelled the country “pounding nails” (framing structures), including the Motel 6 in West Topeka. He managed property in NYC for a few years and had interesting stories about his time there, reminiscing about the people, culture, and cuisine.

He arrived back in Topeka just before a severe ice storm, became friends with an older gentleman (his future father-in-law) who needed help renovating rental properties. He became a trusted employee and friend of the family. That was how he met Virginia “Gini” Annetta (McCall) McCracken (when asked how they met, he would jokingly begin, “it was a dark and rainy night” … before the actual story was told).

They were married a year later on July 20th, 1985.

Tim then worked at JF Glenn Inc. and then Century Office Products, Inc., where he was awarded employee of the year the same year his son, Joseph Jasper McCracken, was born. Six years later, another blessing, a daughter, Charity Hope (McCracken) Quiñonez, was born.

After about 15 years of marriage, Tim proposed to Gini again, and their marriage was blessed in a ceremony at Sacred Heart in Atchison, KS.

From the time Charity was a toddler to age 9, he worked from home, caring for her and developing his own rental business in Atchison, KS. He returned to Topeka so that Gini could help care for her elderly parents, selling the rentals and taking what would be his last new work venture, working as a federal employee at the Regional Submission and Processing Center in Kansas City, MO, where he made friends easily.

In 2021, he stepped into a new role as "Gramps" with the arrival of his grandson, Silas Joseph Quiñonez. In the hospital near his final days, he was asked his favorite thing to do, and he answered, playing with his grandson. He was a fun and loving grandfather who purchased too many race cars and always made his grandson laugh.

Tim spent his last days on earth at home, enjoying the company of family members, friends, and his pets and making arrangements for those he loved. On the day of his passing, he received his last rites with the priest of St. Matthew Catholic Church. Although he was a peaceful man in general, he was clearly at peace after that visit and even promised his spirit would return to “pick up” Gini at her time.

Tim is survived by his wife, Virginia Annetta “Gini” McCall-McCracken of Topeka, KS; his son, Joseph Jasper McCracken of Overland Park, KS; his daughter, Charity Hope Quiñonez, and grandson, Silas Joseph Quiñonez, both of Nashville, TN; as well as his brother, Kurt (Julie) McCracken, and close lifelong friends, Terrence “Terry” (Rhonda) Joseph Papen.

He also leaves behind nieces, nephews, and other extended family.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Harry and Lily Casey; his parents, Bill and Hope McCracken; and his sister, Mary (Charles) Ingram.

While Tim requested for no service to be held, the family will hold time to remember and celebrate him in mid-October.

Tim enjoyed reading throughout his life and passed on this love to his children and grandchild. A Little Free Library will be dedicated to his memory in Nashville, TN.

Some of his favorite charities were St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Easter Seals, Compassion International, and Disabled American Veterans/Paralyzed Veterans.

The family thanks you for your kind actions, words, thoughts, and prayers.

View Tim Dennis McCracken's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

08/24/2026

Kenneth "Kenny" Edward Brown

In Remembrance of “The Jokester”

Kenneth “Kenny” Edward Brown, a caring father, proud grandfather, hardworking man, and unforgettable presence in the lives of those who knew him, passed away on Thursday, August 20, 2026, at the age of 65.

Kenny was born on March 23, 1961, to Robert Lee Brown, Sr. and Lula Mae Brown (Mayfield), both of whom preceded him in death. He attended Topeka West High School and graduated in 1979. He was preceded in death by his brother, Robert Lee Brown, Jr., and is survived by his sister, Linda Brown.

Kenny was a hardworking man who wore many hats throughout his life. He worked as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) and in general maintenance, always willing to work hard and lend a helping hand. He was also a great cook who took pride in preparing good food for the people around him. Whether he was working, cooking, or simply spending time with family and friends, Kenny had a way of making his presence known.

Though life may not have always allowed him to be physically present in the ways a father hopes to be, Kenny cared deeply for his family and took great pride in the people his children became. He was the proud father of Rio Kyles, Toni Kyles, the late Joshua Kyles, and Kiara Owens. Their accomplishments brought him genuine happiness, and he never missed an opportunity to let others know how proud he was.

Beyond his work, Kenny knew how to enjoy life. Music and dancing were among his greatest joys. He had a way of bringing energy and laughter into a room, and he was often the life of the party. With his quick wit, playful sense of humor, and endless jokes, he could make people laugh even when they needed it most. He would often refer to himself as “The Jokester.”

Becoming a grandfather was one of the happiest chapters of his life. He adored his five grandchildren and was truly happy and proud to carry the title of Grandpa. His grandchildren brought a special light to his life and could always bring a smile to his face when he talked about them. He was also blessed with two great-grandchildren, adding another special generation to the family he loved so dearly.

He will be remembered not only for the roles he held in his family, but for the personality that made him uniquely himself—the music lover, the dancer, the hard worker, the jokester, the proud father, and the grandfather who was so happy to be one.

His life was filled with imperfect moments, joyful moments, difficult moments, and beautiful ones. Through it all, he left memories that will remain with those who knew and loved him for years to come.

Kenny may no longer be here to sing / dance to his favorite songs, tell one of his jokes, or celebrate another family gathering, but his laughter, his love of music, and the pride he had for his family will live on. May we all remember his love for family, friends, music, and laughter, and may he rest peacefully.

A celebration of life will be announced at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to help offset expenses may be made to Mario Kyles sent in care of Midwest Cremation, 525 SE 37th Street, Topeka, KS 66605.

View Kenneth "Kenny" Edward Brown's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

08/24/2026

Mary Esther Wolc

Mary Esther (Hulse) Wolc, age 66, of Topeka, Kansas, passed away on August 3, 2026.

A lifelong resident of Topeka, Mary attended Most Pure Heart and Hayden High School. She went on to pursue her interest in horticulture at VoTech and dedicated her career to service, eventually retiring from the VA Call Center. Mary enjoyed gardening, reading, and playing in a local pool league.

Mary is survived by her partner of 12 years, Jim Gish. She was preceded in death by her beloved son Brent Wolc and her parents Homer and Madeline Hulse.

A Celebration of Life will be held in the autumn, and a tree will be planted in her memory.

View Mary Esther Wolc's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

Midwest Cremation, Inc.

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