Obituaries

Arthur E. “Art” Palmer, 87, passed away in Topeka on June 14, 2026. A lifelong resident of Kansas, he was born in Emporia, Kansas, on November 18, 1938, to Robert O. Palmer and Mary (Whitney) Palmer. Art was raised on a cattle ranch in Chase County, Kansas and graduated from elementary and high school in Strong City, Kansas. He received his BBA degree from Washburn University in 1960 and his JD from Washburn University School of Law in 1963.

Art practiced law in Topeka, Kansas for over 57 years. He was an Assistant Attorney General of Kansas after graduation from law school and practiced with the firm now known as Goodell, Stratton, Edmonds & Palmer from 1964 until his retirement in November 2020. He was Managing Partner of the firm for over 20 years. He was a member of the Topeka, Kansas, Missouri, and American Bar Associations. He was a Fellow of the American Bar Foundation, past president of the Kansas Bar Foundation, and past president of the Topeka Bar Association. He served for 24 years as a member of the Kansas Board for Discipline of Attorneys and was the Board Chair for 10 years. In 1997, he was admitted to practice before the Supreme Court of the United States. He was a member of the American Judicature Society, Defense Research Institute and Kansas Association of Defense Attorneys. He served as president of the Capitol Civitan Club and Downtown Topeka, Inc. In 2005, the Topeka Bar Association awarded him its “Warren W. Shaw Distinguished Service Award” for exemplary service to the legal profession.

He was married to V’Ann Stotts and they were later divorced. He was then married for over 30 years to Mary McCandless Stephens Palmer. Mary predeceased him in December 1999. He was later married to Leila Rae Pierce Hawks Palmer for over 21 years, who predeceased him in 2024. He was predeceased by his parents, his brother Carl Palmer and his son, John R. Palmer. Art is survived by his daughters, Audri S. Mays (Eugene), Burlington, Kansas, Stacy Stephens Beckett (William), Summit, New Jersey; stepdaughters, Richelle Hawks (Stephen Wagner), Little Falls, New York, Melanie Hawks, Salt Lake City, Utah; seven grandchildren: Paige Medlock (Kent), Maree Ritter (Patrick Terry), William Arthur “Will” Beckett (Anna), Tyler R. Palmer, John James “Jack” Beckett, Brooke Beckett, Tierney Cyren; six great grandchildren: Chloe Medlock, Mackenzi “Mac” Medlock, Maya Holding, Harper Medlock, Arthur Beckett and George Beckett; and his niece Whitney Griggs (Alan).

As a very young boy, and a young man growing up on the ranch, Art participated in all the physical ranch work and cattle drives. In high school he played football, basketball, and baseball and was an Eagle Scout. He enjoyed big band music, played the trumpet in a dance band and competed in bronc riding in rodeos. He really liked the dances after the rodeos!

Art was beloved by his family. He was a strong steady presence of support - available and frequently sought out for advice, which he often delivered bluntly, or with a quick home spun quip that went right to the heart of the matter. In his free time, Art was a voracious reader, enjoyed attending his grandchildren’s and great grandchildren’s sporting events and attending or watching the Royals, Chiefs and Washburn games. He loved time with family, riding horseback in the Flint Hills, and a T-bone steak. Although he treasured his ranch day memories, he often said that one of the great advantages of being a lawyer was that the work was inside and involved no heavy lifting.

He will be remembered for his love and support, his quick sharp wit and breadth of knowledge. He will be greatly missed and lovingly remembered always.

At Art’s request he was cremated, and no services will be held. Art is memorialized in the Garden of Faith section at Mount Hope Cemetery in Topeka and his final resting place will be in the Stoehr Elmdale Cemetery in Elmdale, Kansas in the heart of his beloved Flint Hills.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Kansas Bar Foundation, 1200 SW Harrison St., Topeka, KS 66612, or to Washburn University Alumni Association and Foundation, 1700 SW College Avenue, Topeka, KS 66621.

Joseph Megerman, 49, died peacefully at his home in Overland Park, KS, on Wednesday, June 3, 2026. Funeral services will be at 11:30am Friday, June 5, 2026, at Louis Memorial Chapel with burial to follow at Sheffield Cemetery. To join the service by zoom, please use the link below.

Joseph was born on May 3, 1977, in Kansas City, Missouri, to Charles and Esther Megerman. Joseph graduated from the Hyman Brand Hebrew Academy, received his B.A. in History at the University of Missouri (M-I-Z-Z-O-U), and his J.D. at Cardozo School of Law. Passionate about justice and the Sixth Amendment, Joseph dedicated his legal career to public defense, serving indigent clients in both the Kansas City and Harrisonville offices of the Missouri State Public Defender for more than two decades.

Joseph attended Camp Ramah in Wisconsin from 8th through 12th grade and returned as a counselor for his freshman and sophomore years of college. At Ramah, he was affectionately known as "Shmeggie" by campers and staff alike. Joseph was a founding member of the "pretty good 12", which rechartered BBYO's Twos AZA #2 in 1994, where he served as the first Minister of Fun, Religion, and Fun Religion, he served as President of the MU Deuteron AEPi chapter, from 1997-1998, and he was President of Beth Israel Abraham and Voliner Synagogue (BIAV) from 2013-2015.

Joseph met the love of his life, Alice, at the Kansas City Public Defender's Office. They shared 15 wonderful years of marriage and built a beautiful family together, raising daughters Golda and Orli. As the only son and brother, Joseph was an important member of the Megerman family, and was deeply loved by his parents and sisters, Rachel, Eliana, and Shira.

Joseph made lifelong friends wherever he went. He was known for his intellect, quick wit, infectious laugh, and great sense of humor. A devoted fan of the Kansas City Royals and Chiefs, he also loved science fiction, karaoke, podcasts, and with his signature moves, dancing like no one was watching. Whether as a friend, lawyer, uncle, brother, son, husband, father, or member of the Jewish community, Joseph brought warmth, humor, and authenticity to every relationship. There was truly no one like him.

He is preceded in death by his father, Charles Megerman; father-in-law, Bob Wasson; brother-in-law, Michael Coleman; and nephew, Mikey Coleman.

Joseph is survived by his beloved wife, Alice; daughters Golda and Orli; his mother, Esther Megerman of Overland Park, Kansas; his mother-in-law, Arthea Wasson of Sedalia, Missouri; his sisters, Rachel Coleman of Kansas City, KS, Eliana Megerman (Michael Merdinger) of Modi'in Israel, and Shira Megerman of New Haven, Connecticut; his sisters-in-law Emily Greer (Matt) of Monroe, North Carolina, and Thea Carlyle (Kevin) of Kansas City, Missouri; and several nieces and nephews.

The family is deeply grateful to the BIAV community for its unwavering love and support, and to all of his friends across the globe who meant so much to him.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions to Beth Israel Abraham & Voliner Synagogue or the Hyman Brand Hebrew Academy.

Paula Huff, Topeka, Kansas, passed away at her home on May 28, 2026.

Paula was born in Great Bend, Kansas, the daughter of Elmo and Lola (Kellogg) Merritt.

She graduated from Fort Hays State University. After graduation, she married Jerry Huff at her parents' home in Great Bend, Kansas.

Survivors include her husband, Jerry Huff; son Kristopher Huff, and two brothers, Robin Merritt and Jon Merritt.

She is preceded in death by both her parents.

Above all else, Paula was a pillar of strength who lived her life for others. She possessed a rare combination of a fiercely creative mind and a servant’s heart. Her professional life reflected her dedication to her community; channeling her love for children into her role as the Director of Admissions at Topeka Collegiate School and her talent for community building as the Director of the Topeka Bar Association

Paula believed in action when she saw a need. She was a staunch advocate for those facing hardships, and she frequently used her incredible culinary skills as a form of comfort, delivering home-cooked meals or sweet treats to anyone navigating a tough time. Her generosity extended into her volunteer work; she assisted with Sunday school at Western Hills Church and became a vital part of the community at Presbyterian Manor. There, Paula shared her love of music by singing, occasionally giving sermons, teaching crafts, and offering a listening ear to residents and always a warm touch.

As a gifted artist, Paula’s hands were rarely still. She was a master of many trades—basket weaving, wood burning, painting, and organizing—possessing the unique ability to create absolutely anything she envisioned. More than just creating art, Paula loved the joy of teaching her hobbies to others, leaving behind a legacy of creativity, kindness, and unwavering support.

She is deeply mourned and will be missed beyond measure by her family, friends, and the community she served so beautifully. Her passing comes far too soon, leaving behind a wealth of cherished memories.

In lieu of flowers, we ask that you please make a donation in her honor to help support the communities she loved. https://www.gofundme.com/f/honoring-the-legacy-of-paula-huff-a-mission-of-comfort   

William Fredrick Ebert III, 76, of Topeka, Kansas, passed away peacefully on Thursday, June 4, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on August 25, 1949, in Kansas City, Missouri, William “Bill” was the son of Bill Jr. and Ruth Ebert, brother to Rich Ebert, and brother-in-law to Joyce Ebert. Bill was a wonderful son, brother, husband, and dad. He loved his family with all of his heart. Bill grew up in Topeka, Kansas, and was a born leader. The kind of person who always set out to make a difference. He graduated from the University of Kansas (Rock Chalk!) and dedicated his professional career to helping families through difficult times through mediation and communication, not just law, but authenticity and kindness. He was highly respected for his integrity, honesty, and compassion. He was a good man.

Beyond his professional achievements, William was a man of great character, warmth, and humor. He spent his free time mostly with family, cooking, watching KU, the Chiefs, and the Royals, and loving everyone. His heart was the biggest!

William is survived by his wife, Suzanne; his children, Christine (John), Virgil, and Nathan; stepsons Chris and Preston (Claire); his grandchildren, Lily, Faith, Lincoln, Chance, Holly, and Willa; and his sibling, Richard Ebert (Joyce). He was preceded in death by his parents, William Fredrick Ebert II and Ruth Ebert, his oldest son, Malachi Ebert, and youngest daughter, Veronica Ebert, (having fun together, no doubt).

Visitation will be from 1 to 2 p.m. with a celebration of William’s life, where memories will be shared to follow at 2 p.m. on Thursday, June 25, 2026, at Kevin Brennan Family Funeral Home, 2801 SW Urish Road, Topeka KS, 66614.

No flowers, no money… just come and remember William “Bill” Ebert. Share stories with us, laugh with us, and celebrate the amazing human we all loved!

Condolences may be sent online at www.kevinbrennanfamily.com

Link to obituary at https://www.kevinbrennanfamily.com/obituaries/william-fredrick-ebert-iii/#!/Obituary

Thomas Michael Wasinger, age 74, of Hays, Kansas passed away Saturday, May 2, 2026 in Winter Park, Florida.

Services are pending at this time and will be announced by Keithley Funeral Homes-Brock's Chapel 2509 Vine Hays, KS 67601.

Memories and words of comfort may be left on Tom's tribute page at www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com.

It is with great sadness, and even greater gratitude for a life so well lived, that we share the passing of Dennis Lee Gillen, who died peacefully in his sleep on Tuesday.

Born in Kingman, Kansas, Dennis lived a life defined by love of family, deep faith, service to his community, and genuine joy in the people and pursuits he cared about most.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Paul and Delores Gillen; his beloved first wife, Colleen (Dullea) Gillen, whom he married on August 8, 1970, and who passed away in 2009; and his stepdaughter, Lacey Garrison, who passed away in 2020.

Dennis was proud to call Kansas home. A graduate of Washburn University, where he earned both his undergraduate and law degrees, he built a highly respected legal career in Wichita. In 1979, he founded his own law firm with his partner, Spencer Depew, and became known not only as an accomplished attorney, but as a trusted counselor, leader, mentor, and friend to many.

His professional achievements were numerous, including serving as President of the Kansas Bar Association, but those who knew him best will remember how much he cared about giving back. He served as a board member of Guadalupe Clinic, was active in the Wichita Wagon Masters, and served as president and longtime member of Crestview Country Club.

His Catholic faith remained an important part of his life, and he was a devoted member of Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church and later St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church.

More than any title or accomplishment, Dennis was a devoted family man. He took immense pride in his children and grandchildren and found his greatest happiness in watching them grow, succeed, and build families of their own.

He is lovingly survived by his sister, Mary Jane Stankiewicz; his children, Cara Horn (Brian), Austin Gillen (Kimberly), Leigh Lytle (Patrick), and Kate Gillen (Nate Bahr); and his cherished grandchildren, Olivia, Jude, Micah, Harvey, Truman, Gigi, Colin, Emma, Paul, and Liam.

He is also survived by his beloved wife, Lana Gillen, whom he married in 2011; and by her children, Bethany Thimesch (Ryan), Kaley Tiesmeyer, and Kenley Tiesmeyer (Blake) and Todd Garrison, Lacey’s widower, along with his treasured step-grandchildren, Hadley, Harper, Raegan, Cadence, Brecklyn, and Memphis.

Dennis celebrated life in many ways— cheering on Wichita State Shockers men’s basketball, traveling to attend multiple Olympic Games, spending time on the golf course with good friends, and gathering with family whenever he could.

He will be remembered for his steady presence, sharp mind, generous heart, and unwavering love for his family and friends. We will miss his wisdom, his humor, and the pride he took in all of us, but we are forever grateful for the example he set and the life he shared.

His legacy lives on in the family he loved so deeply.

Rosary will be at 2:00 pm; Funeral Mass will be at 2:30 pm, Friday, April 10, 2026, at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church.

A memorial has been established with: Guadalupe Clinic, 940 S. St. Francis, Wichita, KS 67211.

Services in care of Downing & Lahey Mortuary – East Chapel.

Evelyn Zabel Wilson, 66, of Topeka, passed away Saturday, April 4, 2026 after a courageous battle with ALS.

She was born December 6, 1959, in Smith Center, Kansas, the daughter of Clarence and Phyllis (Hermanns) Zabel. She graduated from Smith Center High School. Later graduating from Bethany College in Lindsborg and earning her law degree at Washburn University School of Law in Topeka. She practiced law in Topeka and northwest Kansas before becoming a judge.

Evelyn proudly served as a Justice on the Supreme Court from January 2020 to July 2025, when she resigned following her diagnosis. Before that, she served as a district judge in the 3rd Judicial District from 2004 to 2019. She served as the district’s chief judge from 2014 through 2019.

Mrs. Wilson was a member of Grace Episcopal Cathedral in Topeka.

Evelyn married Mike Wilson on September 20, 1986 in Athol, Kansas. He survives. Other survivors include children, Keri (Matt) Houts and Greg (Lisa) Wilson; grandchildren, Payne, Gabe & Ella Houts and Olivia & Lane Wilson; and siblings, Christy Masleid, Deb Weltmer, and John Zabel.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

Evelyn enjoyed spending time with her family and friends and was a proud member of the "Fab-Five" alongside close friends Leslie, Natalie, Cindy and Susie.

Evelyn's wishes were to be cremated. A memorial service will be held at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, May 23, 2026 at Grace Episcopal Cathedral, 701 SW 8th St, Topeka, KS 66603. Her final resting place will be at Saint John Lutheran Cemetery in Athol, KS.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Justice Evelyn Wilson Scholarship at Bethany College, here.

Link to obituary - https://www.dovetopeka.com/obituaries/evelyn-wilson

Robert Royden Laing Jr. – known to most as Bob and to many as Bobby or Bob, Jr. – passed away peacefully at home in Bonner Springs, Kansas, on March 9, 2026, surrounded by the family he loved so deeply.

Bob was born on April 5, 1958, in Kansas City, Kansas, to Robert and Norma Laing. Immediately after his birth in Kansas City, Norma returned with him to Chicago, while his father completed medical school there. In the early 1960s they returned to Bonner Springs, and in 1966 the family spent time at Sheppard Air Force Base in Wichita Falls, Texas. It was there that Bob began playing football for the Bears – with his dad as one of his coaches – sparking a lifelong love of football and sports that would follow him from little league all the way through college.

Eventually the Laing family returned to Bonner Springs, where Bob grew up as the eldest of four siblings. He attended Bonner Springs High School, graduating in 1976. While there, he competed in several sports, including football and wrestling, and excelled in track and field for the Bonner Braves, throwing discus and shot put.

After high school, Bob attended Dodge City Community College (1976-1977) and Idaho State University (1977-1979) on football scholarships, playing starting center, before continuing his education at Washburn University. He graduated in 1980 with a Bachelor of Business Administration and later earned his law degree from Washburn and a Master's in Tax Law at Southern Methodist University.

Bob went on to practice law in a wide range of areas, including general civic practice, family law, business and corporate law, and several other specialties. He was a member of both the Kansas and Missouri Bar Associations. Bob was the kind of attorney people trusted – not only for his knowledge, but for his calm demeanor and steady advice.

Bob was deeply involved in his community. He served on the Bonner Springs City Council and on the Lake of the Forest Board of Directors, always willing to lend his time and perspective when it came to improving the community he loved.

Sports remained one of Bob's lifelong passions. He was a dedicated Kansas Jayhawks basketball fan, holding KU season tickets for many years and attending multiple NCAA tournaments. Eagle-eyed fans spotted him several times on the cover of Sports Illustrated amongst the tournament crowds. For many years, when baseball season began, you could count on Bob being at the Kansas City Royals Home Opener. Bob was also a devoted Kansas City Chiefs fan. During any televised sport, when Bob's favorite team scored or made a stellar play, he loved the tradition of ringing the bell – at his home and those of several neighborhood friends.

Bob also loved the open road. Riding his Harley-Davidson motorcycle, he made countless trips with his beloved "motorcycle gang," collecting stories and miles in equal measure.

The outdoors was another place where Bob felt at home. He was an avid duck and goose hunter, with occasional pursuits of pheasant, dove, and turkey across the fields, marshes, and woods of Kansas and Missouri. In 1999 he became a founding member of the Napier Hunt Club in Holt County, Missouri, where he spent countless hours in the marshes and formed friendships that lasted a lifetime. Those friendships led to a once-in-a-lifetime dove and duck hunting trip to Argentina.

For 35 years, Bob hosted friends from across the country in Chamberlain, South Dakota, on the third weekend of October for three days of pheasant hunting and the camaraderie that always followed. The hunting was good – but the stories afterward were often better.

Bob was a proud member of Ducks Unlimited and the Monkey Club, and he valued the opportunities and friendships that came with both. He had a mellow character and a wonderfully dry sense of humor that could sneak up on you when you least expected it.

He loved traveling with his daughter, family, and friends and enjoyed sailing, boating, and snow skiing. He also had a soft spot for dogs, and many loyal companions joined him throughout the years – King, Jake the Dog, Boomer, Buddy, P, Clay, Coco, Snoop Dogg, Slim Shady, and Drake – each of whom held a special place in his heart.

Bob loved his family deeply. As the oldest of four children, he was often the encourager and steady supporter during difficult times. But he was also the one responsible for plenty of mischief. When Bobby walked into a family gathering, everyone knew the shenanigans were about to begin. He especially loved getting his nephews and niece riled up and laughing.

Bob was a devoted husband – cherishing Jennifer throughout their decades-long relationship – as well as father, son, brother, nephew, uncle, great-uncle, cousin, and friend. His love for them all ran deep and steady, and that love was returned many times over.

He was preceded in death by his father, Robert Laing Sr.; his grandparents; several aunts and uncles; and the many beloved dogs who undoubtedly greeted him first upon their reunion.

He is survived by his wife Jennifer Cloud; his daughter Lauren Patrice Laing; his mother Norma Laing; his siblings Sheryl Laing, Julie Holland (Rob), and Rich Laing (Kristi); his nephews and niece Ryan, Alec (Megan), Austin (Callie), Luke, Jake (Lucy), Hannah, Brandon, and Jax; great-nephews Luca, August, Cal, Remi, and Mac; his aunt Karen Gasper (Jim); his loyal dog Drake; many beloved cousins; and countless cherished friends.

A Celebration of Life will be held on April 4, 2026, from 1:00-4:00 PM at the Lake of the Forest Clubhouse, 100 Lake Forest, Bonner Springs, KS 66012.

Honorary pallbearers are Ryan Holland, Alec Holland, Austin Laing, Luke Holland, Jake Laing, Hannah Holland, Brandon Laing, and Jax Holland.

From 1:30 to 2:30 PM, there will be a time for prayer and sharing memories – because with Bob, there are plenty of good ones to tell. Bring your Bobby stories to share, and stay afterward for food and beverages.

Bob lived a life full of family, friendship, laughter, sports, open roads, wide marshes, and loyal dogs. If there's one thing everyone who knew him can agree on, it's this: life was simply more fun when Bob Laing was around.

Link to obituary - https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/name/robert-laing-obituary?id=61031020

Larry Lee Hapgood, 81, of Topeka, was born on December 2, 1944 to Merwin and Stella (Womack) Hapgood in McPherson, Kansas. and went to be with his Lord and Savior surrounded by loved ones on March 14, 2026.

He went to Roosevelt Grade School, graduated from McPherson High School in 1962 and earned a political science degree from Kansas State University in 1967. During his time at K-State he belonged to the Acacia Fraternity and was blessed to meet his loving and dedicated wife Elizabeth (Liz) Osborn who he married July 8, 1967. He then attended the Washburn University School of law, graduating in 1972 while also serving in the Kansas Air National Guard.

His work in the law spanned many areas over 50 years, including Assistant Attorney General, private practice, the Kansas Department of Revenue, Risk Manager for the City of Topeka and Shawnee County, the Health Care Stabilization Fund, and the Kaw Valley Bank Trust Department. He retired three times but enjoyed being busy from his first paper route in McPherson to his last part-time job with the Kirk Nystrom Law Office.

Larry loved to read, learn, tell a good joke, listen to music, spend time with family - Christmas being a particularly special time for him, cut firewood, and then enjoy the fruits of his labor watching sports in front of the fire. He spent many years playing noontime basketball at the YMCA, and tennis with his friends. In later years he was an avid walker and went to the gym multiple times a week keeping himself in shape for the numerous trips he and Liz took to all 50 states, the Holy Land, and many others. He attended a men’s Monday night Bible study for over 20 years and he and Liz belonged to a couple’s Bible study for over 23 years where they made many wonderful friends and grew in their knowledge of Christ.

He was appointed to the Kansas Guardianship Program Board of Directors by Governor Sam Brownback, was active with the Salvation Army, and loved volunteering at Harvesters with his granddaughter in addition to many financial and time donations he made while ensuring he was not credited.

Larry is survived by his loving wife of over 58 years; Elizabeth Hapgood, and son; Wade (Candace) Hapgood, a Granddaughter; Daegan Hapgood who he doted on, Brother; Jim (Janice) Hapgood, and numerous extended family.

He was preceded in death by his father; Merwin Hapgood, mother; Stella Mae Hapgood, cousin; Robert (Bob) Hapgood, and many other aunts, uncles, cousins family and other friends.

Services will be held March 30th at Topeka Bible Church, 1135 SW College Ave, Topeka Kansas. The visitation will begin at 1:00pm with services to follow at 2:00pm.

Burial will take place immediately following the service at Rochester Cemetery, 1200 NW Menninger Road, Topeka, KS.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Topeka Harvesters, Topeka Bible Church, and Kansan’s for Life.

Link to obituary - https://www.penwellgabeltopeka.com/obituaries/larry-lee-hapgood

Services for David Joseph Berkowitz, 84, of Lawrence, will be at 2 PM on Monday March 16, 2026 at the Lawrence Jewish Community Congregation 917 Highland Drive, Lawrence, Kansas. He passed away at home on Friday, March 13.

He was born July 8, 1941 in Chicago and grew up in Wichita. After graduating from Wichita State College he attended KU School of Law and graduated with a Juris Doctorate. With a legal career spanning over fifty years, David served as a lawyer for the State of Kansas Corporation Commission, was elected Douglas County Attorney in 1972, and conducted a solo practice until 2020. In his later years he received an award from the Kansas Bar Association for his continuing Pro Bono work.

In addition to practicing law, David was a committed lifelong Democrat, serving as Douglas County Party Chair from 1976 to 1986, and on various state and local level party committees for the rest of his life.

He married Katherine Kline on January 13, 1980. She survives of the home. Other survivors include a son William, of Edwardsville, Kansas; a son, John, and daughter-in-law Sana, of Seattle. The family suggests donations in David's name to the Lawrence Humane Society and the Lawrence Public Library.

Online condolences made at rumsey-yost.com.

Link to obituary - https://obituaries.ljworld.com/us/obituaries/ljworld/name/david-berkowitz-obituary?id=61036177