Charles David Huntsman

Charles David Huntsman, 98 of Topeka, passed away Thursday, October 8, 2026 at his home. Charles was born at home August 28, 1928 in Topeka, Kansas to Charles William Huntsman and Edith Genevieve Huntsman. Five years later his sister Janice Elaine was born and despite the age difference, they were very close. Attending Topeka public schools, he graduated from Highland Park High School in 1946 and completed his formal education at Washburn University earning a Bachelor’s Degree. In 1951 he and four of his best friends enlisted at the same time in various branches of the military. A picture and article in the Topeka Daily Capital recorded the event. Charles joined the Air Force and was stationed in Washington DC as a Special Investigations Officer for the OSI. He was awarded the National Defense Service Medal and was discharged at the rank of Second Lieutenant. After completing his military career, he worked at Huntsman and Company with his father installing floor covering and tile, as a life insurance agent, and in administrative positions, retiring from the Kansas Highway Patrol.

On September 13, 1953 he married the love of his life, Mary Alice in Delia, Kansas. Their love affair continued until her death April 6, 2023. The couple enjoyed many hobbies together including being members of the Civic Symphony Society and Community Concert Association. They enjoyed traveling across the states to visit historic sites, beautiful scenery and most importantly, the local cuisine. Charles loved to fish and hunt pheasant and quail making an annual trip to western Kansas for Opening Day weekend. Charles planted and tended a vegetable garden every year and the very green grass of his lawn was always pristine. An avid reader, he liked history and biographies but later he read thrillers and mystery novels.

Charles was preceded in death by everyone of his generation, both family and friends. He is survived by daughters Brenda Dunlap and Laura Williams (Scott), grandchildren Spencer Williams (Mary), Lauren Keepes (Bradley), great-grandson Winston Keepes, cousin-in-law Chris Huntsman, and many nieces and nephews, great nieces and great nephews.

The family gives special thanks to everyone at Legend at Capital Ridge who took wonderful care of him.

A Memorial luncheon and Celebration will take place 11:00 AM-2:00 PM Sunday, November 8, 2026 at The Garden House (Lake Shawnee), 3720 SE Yacht Court, Topeka, KS

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Tunnel Towers Foundation, 2361 Hylan Blvd., Staten Island, NY 10306 or T2T.org