Elmer A. Kuhn

Our beloved husband, father, and Grandpa, Elmer Aloysius Kuhn, died Thursday, May 1, 2008 at Stormont Vail Hospital. He was born June 21, 1923 in Park, KS, the son of Michael P. and Katharine Braun Kuhn, and was the seventh of ten children. His family moved to Topeka when he was about five years of age. He married Edith Clarene Fowler on September 11, 1944. They met when 17 years old on Scotland Ave. where their families lived only a few houses apart. After their daughters were born they moved back to that same block, first renting and eventually buying a home close to those where they were reared. Elmer’s first job was delivering sample packages of Rice Krispies at the age of 8. He worked at Helzburgs as a salesman and watch repairman. His career in woodworking began at Whelan Lumber Company, where he learned cabinet making and became a skilled craftsman. After 20 years at Whelan’s he founded Midwest Millwork, and worked with his sons for 15 years. Following his retirement he worked with his sons, and grandson, Scott at Shawnee Woodwork. He looked forward to the start of each day at work with Jim until early this year. As a high school junior and senior he was the starting pitcher for an American Legion ball team. He was an avid gardener and enjoyed sharing his vegetables with family and friends. With his wife he traveled the western states always marveling at the scenery and wildlife. He was a devoted husband and father and especially delighted in his grandchildren. He was a faithful and ardent member of Sacred Heart Church for nearly 80 years. In addition to his wife he is survived by his daughters: Karen E. Zeller, Arkansas City, KS, and Anne Kuhn, Lawrence, KS; sons: Michael S. Kuhn and James D. Kuhn, both of Topeka, KS; granddaughter Sarah E. Swantner of Boise, ID, grandsons: Scott M. Kuhn of Eden Prairie, MN, and Paul V. Kuhn of Fort Worth, TX, step-granddaughter Michelle Gleason and her daughters Samantha and Mya of Surprise, AZ; sisters: Louise Barrett of Denver, CO, and Wilma Chaffin of Wichita, KS; sister-in-law, Barbara Kuhn, Denver, CO, and many nephews and nieces. He was pre-deceased by his parents, brothers Edmund, Herbert, Paul, and Donald, and his sisters Loretta Bergeron, Eleanor Carson, and Leone Lizenbery. Visitation will be 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. Sunday at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 312 NE Freeman, Topeka, KS 66616, where a parish rosary will be prayed at 6:00 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 a.m. Monday, May 5, 2008 at the church. Burial will follow at Mount Calvary Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Sacred Heart Church or Midland Hospice sent in care of Kevin Brennan Family Funeral Home, 2801 SW Urish Rd., Topeka, KS 66614.

Elmer A. Kuhn

June 21, 1923 - May 1, 2008