Sophie A. Sipes

Sophie A. Sipes, Topeka, 94, died Friday, October 15, 2010 at Lexington Park Nursing Facility.

She was born July 10, 1916 in Topeka, KS, the daughter of Peter and Mary (Schwerdt) Artzer.  At the age of two her parents died during the flu epidemic.  After their deaths she was raised by her grandmother and aunts.         

She married Leo “Lee” Sipes, Sr. on June 15, 1935 in Topeka, KS.  He preceded her in death on September 8, 2002.  She was also preceded in death by a son, Lee Sipes, Jr. February 17, 1995, three brothers, George, Clarence and Paul.  Sophie and her husband owned and operated Lee’s Lunch, Lee’s Little Chef Restaurant and Sipes Liquor Store. 

Sophie attended St. Joseph Catholic Schools and was a graduate of Topeka Catholic High. She was a member of Mater Dei Assumption Parish where she served as Eucharistic Minister for over 20 years, She was a member of Daughters of Isabella Little Flower Circle #503, the over 55 Club and the Red Hat Society.  She volunteered for Let’s Help, Friendly Visitors, the Red Cross and Catholic Social Services.  She loved playing cards and was an avid letter writer to friends and family.

She is survived by a son; Tim Sipes and his wife Janet, Clearwater Beach, FL, grandchildren; Shelly and Ryan Sipes and his wife Brooke, and one step great grandson.

Sophie will lie in state after 2:00 p.m. Wednesday at Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home where a Daughters of Isabella Rosary will be prayed at 5:00 p.m. followed by a Parish Rosary at 5:30 p.m.  Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 10:00 a.m. Thursday at Assumption Catholic Church.  Interment will follow in Mount Calvary Cemetery.

Memorial contributions are suggested in lieu of flowers to Sisters of Charity in Leavenworth, in care of Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home, 800 SW 6th Ave., Topeka, KS 66603.