Donald Joseph Deters

 Donald Joseph Deters, 84 of Topeka, passed away Monday, September 1, 2008 at Stormont-Vail Health Center.

He was born November 13, 1923 in Axtell, one of thirteen children born to Henry Francis and Cora Rose (Stueve) Deters.  Don served in the United States Army during WW II.

Don was employed by the United States Postal Service before he retired.  In his leisure time Don enjoyed woodworking, fishing and reading.

He was a member of Mater Dei Parish, The Smithsonian Institute, AARP of Kansas, the Kansas Historical Society, and Capitol Post # 1 of the American Legion.

Don was married to Rosemary C. Noll on January 17, 1956 in Topeka.  She preceded him in death on October 21, 2007.

Survivors include:  brothers and sisters-in-law, John and Annemarie Deters of Colorado Springs, CO, Frank and Myra Deters of Gardner, Charles and Mary Lou Deters of Topeka and Bill and Kathy Deters of Hedgesville, WV; sisters and brothers-in-law, Kathleen and Arnold Miller of Edgerton, MO, Betty Miller of Linn Valley, Marjorie Bergmann of Mulvane, Tom Quaney of Burlingame and Andy Durkes of McLouth.  Rosemary’s sister and brother-in-law Rayonna and John Savage of Alma also survive. 

Don was also survived by many nieces and nephews.  He and Rosemary were called on to be godparents to many of them.  To some of them, Don and Rosemary became like a second set of grandparents.

Don will lie in state at Mater Dei’s Assumption Parish on Saturday morning after 9:00 a.m. where the family will receive friends until the service hour.  Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday at 10:00 a.m. at the church.  Interment will follow in Mount Calvary Cemetery where military honors will be provided by the Ft. Riley Honors Team. 

Memorial contributions are suggested in his memory to the American Cancer Society or the American Heart Association and sent in care of Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home, 800 SW 6th Ave., Topeka, Kansas  66603.

Online condolences to www.brennanmathenafh.com.