Walter E. Thomas

Walter E. "Walt" Thomas, 82, Topeka, died October 12, 2011 at his home. Walt was born April 29, 1929 in Topeka the son of Opal D. (Johnson) and Lester L. Thomas. He served in the United States Army National Guard during the Korean Conflict. He was employed at Seaman School District #345 in the Food Service Department, he retired in 1990. After he retired he pursued his hobby of model railroading. He and his wife enjoyed ballroom dancing until his health began to fail. Walt met Betty Wolford in Junior High where they dated and were married June 15, 1950, sharing 61 years together. She survives. Other survivors include three children, twins, Daniel R. Thomas of Hutchinson and Diane K. Rose (Leroy) of Garden City, and Cheryl Buckles (Larry) of Topeka. Seven grandchildren, three step grandchildren, two great grandchildren and five step great grandchildren also survive. He was preceded in death by his parents and a special daughter-in-law, Laura Thomas on June 24, 2000. Walt will lie in state after 2:00 p.m. Sunday at Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home where the family will receive friends from 2:00 until 4:00 p.m. Funeral service will be 11:00 a.m. Monday at the funeral home. Interment will follow at Mount Calvary Cemetery. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Helping Hands Humane Society or to the Topeka Rescue Mission sent in care of Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home, 800 SW 6th Ave., Topeka, KS 66603. Online condolences may be left at www.brennanmathenafh.com.