Robert W. Tew

Robert Wayne Tew, 80, of Topeka, passed away Friday, January 22, 2010 at Stormont-Vail Health Care.

He was born December 27, 1929 in Topeka the son of Earl Wayne and Mary Margaret  (Mills) Tew.  Robert graduated from Topeka High School in 1947.  He served in the United States Navy from 1948 until he was discharged February 5, 1952.  While serving in the navy he also was a medic with the United States Marines for a period of time.

Robert was employed by the City of Topeka as a fireman from 1953 until he retired in 1990 as a District Chief.  In 1962 he established the Tew Insurance Agency with Shelter Insurance retiring in 2006, however, he continued to be involved working with his son, David, in the agency.

Bob enjoyed boating, fishing, family activities and spending time with his grandchildren.

He was a member of Most Pure Heart of Mary Catholic Church, Knights of Columbus Council #534 and Capital Post #1 of the American Legion.

Robert was married on November 26, 1953 to Patricia M. Linehan at Assumption Catholic Church.  She survives.

Other survivors include his children, Jim Tew and his wife Debbie of Independence, KS, Cindy Barber and her husband Mike of Topeka, David Tew and his wife Shonn of Topeka, six grandchildren, Jennie Watts and her husband Tim, Stephanie Tew, James Tew, Anthony Barber, Haley Tew and Jack Tew.  Four great grandchildren, a sister Mary Tolin of Topeka and numerous nieces and nephews also survive.  Robert was preceded in death by a brother Harry, a sister Betty Farr and a nephew Robert Tolin.

Mr. Tew will lie in state after 2:00 p.m. Monday at the Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home where the family will receive from 6:00 – 7:00 p.m. and a Prayer Service will be held at 7:00 p.m.  Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 a.m. Tuesday at Most Pure Heart of Mary Catholic Church.  The Last Alarm ceremony by the Topeka Fire Department will be held at the church following the mass.  Interment will follow in Mount Calvary Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to the American Lung Association or the charity of the donor’s choice and sent in care of the funeral home, 800 SW 6th Ave, 66603.

Online condolences to www.brennanmathenafh.com.