Walter J. Hrenchir

Walter J. Hrenchir passed away peacefully in his sleep on December 23, 2025, at the age of 94. Walter was born on May 19, 1931, in Emmett KS, to Raphael and Marcella Haug Hrenchir. He grew up on their farm exploring the surrounding fields and woods with his three brothers and two sisters. He loved regaling his children and grandchildren with stories of his many childhood adventures. Walter attended Holy Cross Elementary School and graduated from Emmett High School on May 19, 1949. Walter served as a Corporal in the Kansas Army National Guard, Headquarters Company, 174th Military Police Battalion during the Korean War. After being honorably discharged from the armed forces, Walter began working at Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company in Topeka KS. Walter started his career in the banbury machines and ended his 42 years of exemplary service at the company as the senior Quality Assurance Inspector. Walter was introduced to the love of his life, Evelyn Mae Holt, by his sister, Rita. They were joined in holy matrimony on May 25, 1957, at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Mayetta KS. Walter and Evelyn purchased a house in Topeka and quickly turned it into a home for their growing family. Walter served as a Boy Scout Leader for Troop 175 during the years his sons participated in Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts. His favorite activity was the annual Pinewood Derby Races. Walter was an active member of the Knights of Columbus, Council 4254 in Topeka, attaining Fourth Degree Status in 1996. Walter strongly appreciated the grandeur of God’s natural world. Every summer he meticulously planned a family vacation to visit many of the country’s National Parks including Rocky Mountain, Grand Canyon, Glacier, Denali, and the Olympics. The family trips were interspersed with camping, hikes and the inevitable stops at historical markers. Summer weekends were often spent making memories camping in his beloved Flint Hills. The days were filled hiking the hills, woods and creeks in search of wildflowers, rocks, gooseberries, strawberries, bird feathers and fossils. Walter worked hard to provide for his family. He was a man of honor and went through life always willing to lend a hand whenever someone needed help. He relished being a “Jack of All Trades.” He was a mechanic, plumber, electrician, painter, gardener, and tinkerer. One of his passions was finding other people’s “trash” and turning them into cherished treasures. He was a talented woodworker and created many beloved pieces for his family. He was an avid hunter and fisherman. His joy for country music was reflected in his playing guitar, banjo, mandolin and harmonica. Walter delighted in anything western and could often be found watching old cowboy television series and movies. He enjoyed reading biographies and history books which culminated in a bucket list trip to Washington, DC. Walter never stopped expanding his knowledge, learning new things every day. Walter’s legacy will carry on reminding us all of the importance of hard work, joy in trying new things, love for nature, love for family and having a strong faith in God. Walter was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Evelyn, three brothers, Don, Ray, Vince, and sister, Rita. He is survived by his children, Jeannine Bridgewater (Steve), Larry Hrenchir (Donna), Dale Hrenchir (Julie) and Carol Marstall (Gary); eight grandchildren; and sister, Mary Teresa. Visitation will be 5 to 6:30 p.m. Friday, January 2, 2026, at Kevin Brennan Funeral Home, 2801 SW Urish Road, Topeka KS 66614, where the rosary will be prayed at 6:30 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 9:30 a.m. Saturday, January 3, 2026, at Most Pure Heart of Mary Catholic Church, 3601 SW 17th Street, Topeka KS 66604. Burial will follow in Half Day Cemetery in Elmont KS. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Grassland Heritage Foundation and sent in care of the funeral home or on their website www.grasslandheritage.org Condolences may be sent online to www.kevinbrennanfamily.com.

Walter J. Hrenchir

May 19, 1931 - December 23, 2025