Jack A. Woodruff

Jack Arthur Woodruff, 91, Overbrook, Kansas, beloved by his family, passed away Friday, June 5, 2026. Jack was born September 29, 1934, in Overbrook. His family moved several times but finally settled in Topeka, where he attended Roosevelt Junior High and graduated from Topeka High School in 1953. He was inducted into the US Army in 1957 and served actively until 1959 when he was honorably discharged to the Army Reserves. In October of 1961, during the Cuban Missile Crisis, Jack was recalled to active duty and then released to return to the Reserves in August of 1962. On November 28, 1959, Jack and Darlene McMullen were united in marriage at Holy Name Catholic Church, Topeka. They were inseparable, enjoying more than 66 years together. They were members at Mater Dei, Holy Name Church for many years and currently are members of St. Francis Catholic Church, Lapeer, Kansas. A Teamster truck driver, driving for several trucking lines, for over 35 years, Jack loved trucks and tractors. He enjoyed spending time and was proud of their farm. Known for striking up conversations wherever he went, Jack would get to know people everywhere. He had a great sense of humor and was known and loved for his orneriness. Jack’s very favorite thing was being with family. No one was happier at family reunions than Jack. He loved his family and was well loved in return. Left to cherish Jack’s memory is his beloved wife, Darlene of Overbrook; children, Warren Woodruff of Topeka, Danny Woodruff of Overbrook, Sandy Howe (Larry) Overbrook, Jack Woodruff, Jr. (Vonnie) of Longmont, Colorado, and Randy Woodruff (Missy) of Olathe, Kansas; eight grandchildren, Alyson Mitchell (Jason), Grady Woodruff (Lizzi), Jacqueline Kremers (Alec), Hannah Honeyman, Megan Woodruff, Kallie Woodruff, Jake Woodruff, and Jack Pierce “JP” Woodruff; four step-grandchildren, Ashlea Nelson (Jason), Sarah Alejos, Warren Howe (Jessica), and Elizabeth Richmeier (Jared); seven great-grandchildren, Maddie, Emersyn, Liam, Bryer, Emery, Karlie and Davis; eight step-great-grandchildren, Isaac, Joey, Kaelyn, Ella, Mila, Lahna, Brooks, and Leo; his sister, Pat Ritchie; and many nieces and nephews. Jack was preceded by his parents, Jim and Fern Woodruff, daughter-in-law, Warren’s wife, Linda Woodruff, step-grandson, Elijah Alejos, and brother, Barry “Bud” Woodruff. The Rosary will be prayed at 5 p.m., Thursday, June 11, 2026, at Kevin Brennan Family Funeral Home, 2801 SW Urish Road, Topeka KS 66614, followed by visitation until 7 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, June 12, 2026, at 10 a.m. at St. Patrick Catholic Church, 302 Boyle Street, Scranton KS 66537, followed by burial with military honors at Overbrook Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Overbrook American Legion Post 239 or St. Francis Catholic Church, Lapeer, sent in care of the funeral home. Condolences may be sent online to www.kevinbrennanfamily.com.

Jack A. Woodruff

September 29, 1934 - June 5, 2026