Eugene Artzer Sr.

Eugene J."Gene" Artzer Sr., 85, of Topeka passed away January 7, 2012 at his home. He was born June 3, 1926 in Topeka the son of Albert and Veronica (Allendorf) Artzer. Eugene served in the United States Army during WWII. Eugene was a carpenter for many years before he retired. He enjoyed fishing, camping and visiting a special niece Caroline "Little One" (Wero) McKinn in Phoenix, AZ. For over fifty years Eugene played Santa Claus for the Knights of Columbus, Eagle?s Lodge and the German Club. He was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church, Knights of Columbus Council #2608, Philip Billard Post #1650 of the VFW, American Legion Post #400, Carpenter?s Local #1445 and Aerie Eagle?s Lodge #4319. Eugene was married to Mary Jo Otney on May 3, 1943 in Topeka. She preceded in death on December 28, 2000. A son Eugene Artzer Jr. died on November 20, 2011 and four grandchildren, John Garvey, Karl Lewis, Tate Adams and Mary Jo Artzer also preceded him in death. Survivors include six daughters, Donna (Wayne) Garvey, Veronica (Ted) Lewis, Mary Ann Alfrey, Nancy (John) Burghart, Jerri (Earl) Blassingame and Christine Artzer all of Topeka, a daughter-in-law, Nancy Artzer of Millington, TN., and one brother Wilbert (Betty) Artzer of Topeka. Seventeen grandchildren, twenty-seven great grandchildren and seven great great grandchildren also survive. Eugene will lie in state after 4:00 p.m. on Tuesday at St. Joseph Catholic Church where a Parish Rosary will be prayed at 6:00 p.m. and a Knights of Columbus Rosary will be at 6:30 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday at St. Joseph Catholic Church. Burial with military honors provided by Philip Billard Post #1650 of the VFW will follow in Mount Calvary Cemetery. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to St. Joseph Catholic Church sent in care of the Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home, 800 SW 6th Ave., 66603.