Donald "Don" Laird Jr.

Donald Leroy Laird, Jr., 74, of Topeka passed away unexpectedly Tuesday October 14, 2014, at Saint Francis Health Center. Don was born at Saint Francis Hospital in Topeka KS on June 14, 1940, the son of Donald Leroy Laird, Sr. and Isabel (Hoffman) Laird. Don graduated from Hayden High School in 1958 and taught at Hayden High School for 35 years, from 1970 to 2005. Don estimated that he taught almost 9,000 students during his career. In addition to teaching, he coached volleyball, girls & boys swimming and faithfully videotaped athletic events for Hayden. He and his wife Kay chaperoned students on eight trips to France. Don was affectionately known by students as Mr. Laird, and many have expressed he was their favorite teacher. Don had a lifelong appreciation for education. Immediately after high school, he attended St. Thomas Aquinas Seminary for seven years earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in Philosophy. He then attended Washburn University, Kansas University and Emporia State University, receiving his teaching certificate and a Master’s Degree. Don volunteered at the Cat Association of Topeka, the Sandwich Ministry, Let’s Help and Doorstep. Don was a railroad enthusiast and traveled on trains frequently, here and in Europe. Don was a loving husband to his wife Kay, the most exceptional brother, devoted uncle to his nieces and nephews, and a caring soul to every living thing. Don is survived by his devoted wife, Kathryn Laird of the home; three brothers, Charles Laird (Sue), Greg Laird (Linda) and Mark Laird (Ellen) all of Topeka; brother-in-law John McBurney (Judy), Liberty MO; sister-in-law Diana VanWinkle (Les), Coffeyville KS; 12 nephews, 7 nieces, several great-nephews and great-nieces, and many cats that he cared for. Don was preceded in death by his parents, his first wife, Barbara Burghart Laird, and his brother, David Paul Laird. Family will greet friends from 4-6 p.m. Friday at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 227 SW Van Buren, Topeka KS 66603, with a parish rosary prayed at 5:30 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Saturday at the church. Burial will follow at Mount Calvary Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made in Don’s name to the Cat Association of Topeka, 1719 SW Gage Blvd Topeka KS 66604, Hayden Catholic High School, 401 SW Gage Blvd, Topeka KS 66606, St. Joseph Catholic Church, 227 SW Van Buren, Topeka KS 66603, or to a charity of the donor’s choice.

Donald "Don" Laird Jr.

June 14, 1940 - October 14, 2014