David Scheer Jr.

Beloved Husband, Father, and Grandfather David Merle Scheer Jr., 93, Topeka, Kansas, passed away Wednesday, July 21, 2021. Dave was born April 12, 1928, in Big Springs, Kansas, the son of David and Hazel Noe Scheer. He graduated from Topeka High School at the age of 17 and enlisted in the US Navy during WWII. On November 26, 1947, Dave and his high school sweetheart, Clara Marjorie Carter, were united in marriage at Westminster Presbyterian Church. They became dedicated and active members of Trinity Presbyterian Church for many years. Dave and Clara enjoyed more than 60 years together, raising their family. When their children were young the family enjoyed yearly summer road trips, traveling for weeks at a time. Dave and Clara fulfilled their lifelong goal of visiting all 50 states with a trip to Hawaii in 1997. And when Clara’s health failed, Dave was her loving caregiver until her death January 17, 2008. Upon discharge from the Navy, Dave began his career with the Topeka Fire Department in 1949. There he rose through the ranks, was promoted to Captain in 1965, District Chief in 1974, and to Battalion Chief in 1981 where he served until his retirement in 1986. During his retirement Dave loved spending his days taking care of his three grandchildren. Dave was a master fisherman. He took frequent fishing trips to Canada, Oklahoma, and throughout Kansas. He was a wonderful gardener, cultivating every color of iris and peony available. One of his favorite pastimes was hunting morel mushrooms and wild strawberries with his children at his old homestead in Big Springs. After these endeavors Clara would fry up mushrooms and make strawberry jam, two of his favorites. Dave was an expert at making chili and would hand-crank homemade ice cream for each of his family’s birthdays. He was a lifelong fan of sports, especially of KU basketball. When grandchildren came along, Dave and Clara doted on them and spoiled them with their love and care. Some of his favorite hobbies included playing cards and reading science fiction books, even writing a novel of his own. Grateful to have shared Dave’s life are son, Randy Scheer (Hillary); and daughter, Kathy Petty (David); grandchildren, Chloe Scheer, Carter Petty (Hannah Schifman) and Claire Petty; his sister, Opal Gragg; and brother, George Scheer. He was preceded in death by his brothers, Gene and Milt Scheer. Dave also leaves behind many cherished cousins, nieces, and nephews. A memorial service celebrating Dave’s life will be Saturday, August 28, 10:30 A.M., at Kevin Brennan Family Funeral Home, 2801 SW Urish Road, Topeka KS 66614. Inurnment with military honors will follow at Mount Hope Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to Doorstep, Inc. and sent in care of the funeral home. Condolences may be sent online to www.kevinbrennanfamily.com.

David Scheer Jr.

April 12, 1928 - July 21, 2021