Fred Wayne Gatlin

Frederick “Fred” Wayne Gatlin, 68, of Topeka, Kansas, passed away peacefully on October 7, 2016 after enduring a lengthy illness. As a servant to others, Fred's wish was to donate his body to the University of Kansas School of Medicine. Fred was born September 19, 1948 in Colby, Kansas, to Wayne Isaac and Darlene Ruth Gatlin (née Grant), into a multi-generational Rawlins County Kansas farming family. He graduated from Kansas State University in 1970 with a B.S. in Animal Science, was a member of Farm House Fraternity, Blue Key Honor Society and served on the Alumni Board of Directors. In 2003, he earned a Master of Public Administration from the University of Kansas. He built upon and operated his family farm, was a certified seed wheat producer and a member of many local, regional and national agricultural associations. He was the owner of The Seed House, Inc. in Atwood, KS. Fred served 10 years (1988-1997) as State Representative for the 120th district in the Kansas legislature and had a love for and keen understanding of the political process. Colleagues from both sides of the aisle admired his integrity and called him a friend. Fred was an employee of the State of Kansas for 13 years, last with the Juvenile Justice Authority before retirement due to his health. He was involved in civic responsibilities for nearly 50 years both in Atwood and Topeka. Through the time of his death, Fred actively participated in changing the discourse of the current political landscape, supporting moderate efforts and candidates for change. Fred was an avid reader of politics, history and The New York Times daily. He was a life-long Methodist who actively served and worshiped in Atwood and at the First United Methodist Church of Topeka. His insights and passion enriched the lives of his community, most especially his daughter and granddaughter whose activism and altruism follows his example. Fred is survived by his wife Karen (née Downing) of 35 years; daughter Hannah Anthony and his adored granddaughter Katharine Anthony of Chicago; sister Ruth Ann (Randy) Drake of Iuka, KS and his niece and nephew. He was preceded in death by his parents. A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, October 11, 2016 at 1:30 p.m. at First United Methodist Church, 600 SW Topeka Blvd., Topeka, KS, 66603, where the family will greet friends one hour preceding the service. Contributions in his memory may be made to the First United Methodist Church in support of service and ministry.

Fred Wayne Gatlin

September 19, 1948 - October 7, 2016