Michael Andrew Armster

Michael Andrew Armster, 54, of Topeka, bounced into this world on December 7, 1968 in Lakenheath, England. From then on, his sisters loved to introduce him as "my baby brother".

Eventually Michael's family returned to the United States and settled in Salina, KS. His warmth and wit instantly drew people to him, and his art of cherishing new experiences and engaging with new people made him a friend to everyone. After graduating from Salina Central High in 1986, he followed his basketball scholarship to Cowley County Community College in Ark City, KS, then received another basketball scholarship and played for Southwestern College in Winfield, KS. It was during that transition that Michael was struck with schizophrenia and spent his life battling the illness - full of hope that one day he would regain his footing. About a decade later, he fulfilled one of his life's goals by finishing his college education and earning his Bachelor's Degree from Washburn University. Michael stayed in Topeka and grew his network of friends through his many spoken word poetry readings in a variety of cool coffee shops.

Michael was a voracious reader, connessuer of music, and self-annointed "foodie". He was a devoted and unabashed Christian who lived his faith in how he moved through the world and treated others. He was the the 4th and final child - the only boy - and at 6'5",  he was nicknamed "Big Mike". But by far, the biggest part of him was his heart.

Michael Andrew Armster died in his home on May 15th, 2023.

Michael is survived by: His parents Dorothy L. Armster (Wichita, KS), Franksin Armster (spouse to Ingrid Armster of Tucson, AZ). His sisters Rev. Michelle E. Armster (Wichita), Dr. Cynthia D. Armster (Chicago, IL), and Deborah Armster Winchel (spouse to Gary L. Winchel of Olathe, KS). And his nieces and nephew Sobenna A. Worrill (Chicago, IL), Mercy Michelle Winchel (Olathe, KS), and Khary York Starks Armster (Hyattsville, MD).

A memorial service for Michael will be 2:00pm, Saturday, May 27, 2023 at the Lorraine Avenue Mennonite Church, 655 S Lorraine St. Wichita, KS  67211.

Rest well, Michael. You are missed. You are loved. 
You are free.