Michael Marnach

Retired MCI Lieutenant Michael D. Marnach, Sr., age 71, of Topeka, KS, passed away with his beloved family by his side on Thursday, March 17, 2022, at the University of Kansas Health System-St. Francis Campus.

Mike was born the son of Elmer and Patricia (Reynolds) Marnach on June 24, 1950, in Emmetsburg, Iowa.

Mike enlisted in the United States Marines in January of 1968, during the Vietnam War. While serving in Vietnam, he received numerous accolades for his service. Mike was honorably discharged from the Marines in April of 1972, achieving the rank of Corporal. Upon his return from service, Mike joined the Kansas Army National Guard in 1972, retiring as First Sergeant in 2002. He then served as Sergeant of Arms for the Vietnam Veterans of America-Kansas State Council. Mike was proud of his service to his country, and he was always willing to lend a hand for his fellow Vietnam and service comrades.

It was in 1972, Mike started his career with law enforcement. He served in different police departments throughout the State of Kansas. In 1985, he started his final career with the Kansas Highway Patrol, moving up the ranks as a Motor Carrier Inspector. On September 8, 2020, Mike retired as MCI Lieutenant from the Kansas Highway Patrol after serving 35 years with the State of Kansas. He will be known for his hard work, dedication, and willingness to serve.

Mike married Lori G. Morrow on March 8, 1991, in Topeka, KS. Together, they shared 31 years of marriage.

In his spare time, Mike enjoyed fishing, hunting, camping, working, and socializing. He liked to watch K-State sports and the Kansas City Royals. Spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren, brought him the greatest joy.

Survivors include his loving wife, Lori Marnach; two daughters, April Soendker and her husband Patrick, Courtney DeForest and her husband Kriss; four grandchildren, Lexie, Trista, Bayleigh & Kason; six siblings, Cheryl, James, Wayne, Larry, John & Chad; as well as many friends, colleagues, and servicemen.

He was preceded in death by his parents; grandson, Kristopher DeForest, Jr., and two brothers, George and Richard.

 Mike will lie in state from 2-8:00 P.M., on Thursday, March 24, 2022, at the Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 1:00 P.M., on Friday, March 25, at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 227 SW Van Buren St., Topeka, KS 66603. Burial with military honors will follow at Memorial Park Cemetery-Topeka.

Memorial contributions can be made in Mike’s memory to the Vietnam Veterans of America State-Kansas State Council. Contributions can be left or mailed to the funeral home.

To share a memory or to leave condolences, please visit, www.brennanmathenafh.com.

Arrangements entrusted to Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home, 800 SW 6th Avenue, Topeka, KS 66603.