Donald J. Smarker

March 27, 1939 - January 28, 2022

Donald J. Smarker, 82, Topeka, Kansas, passed away on Friday, January 28, 2022. He was born March 27, 1939, in Kansas City, Kansas, the son of Frank and Anna Wolters Smarker. Don was raised in Kansas City, Kansas, and attended Blessed Sacrament Elementary School and Wyandotte High School. At the age of 17, Don joined the United States Marine Corps in March 1956 through 1959. Don was employed at Proctor and Gamble for 35 years, retired in 1996. He married Betty Blankenship on December 31st, 1999. Don retired early because he "didn't think he would live long enough to do everything he wanted to do." Most mornings you could find Don with a cup of coffee, a peanut butter cookie and a grandchild or great-grandchild in tow. He enjoyed traveling throughout the United States, Europe and his favorite location, Puerto Vallarta. He also enjoyed playing cards and working in the garden. Don loved restoring vintage cars and was an active member of the Hupmobile Club. He could repair anything, and was always tinkering with projects in his garage. Don was creative and kind, always active and generous to the causes he supported. He was a founding member of Mother Teresa of Calcutta Catholic Church, a member of Knights of Columbus Council 534, and a member of the NRA and the American Antique Car Association. In 2019, Don and his son, Brian, traveled to Germany to explore their ancestry. They met and enjoyed the company of their Herman cousins as they toured the countryside. He will be missed by so many. Don is survived by his wife, Betty Blankenship-Smarker; children, Don Smarker (Lana), Brian Smarker (Scarlet), Sheila Scarborough, Kristy Moreno, Shonna Walker, Brad Blankenship (Becky Harrod), and Annette Blankenship Martin; ten grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; brothers, Richard and Albert Smarker. He was preceded in death by his parents, and brothers, Francis Smarker, Jr., and Charles Smarker. Rosary will be prayed at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, February 2nd, at Mother Teresa of Calcutta Catholic Church, 2014 NW 46th Street, Topeka KS 66618, where visitation will follow until 7:30 p.m. Mass of Resurrection will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Thursday, February 3rd, at the Church. The United States Marine Corps will provide military honors following Mass. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Mother Teresa of Calcutta Catholic Church, and sent in care of Kevin Brennan Family Funeral Home, 2801 SW Urish Road, Topeka KS 66614. Condolences may be sent online to www.kevinbrennanfamily.com.