Kenneth Gene Abitz

Kenneth Gene Abitz, 68, passed away from cancer on Monday, February 15, 2021 at Stormont Vail Hospital, Topeka, Kansas.

Ken was born in 1952 in Onaga, Kansas. He grew up on the family farm in Wheaton, Kansas and began elementary school at Pleasant Hill, a one-room schoolhouse northeast of Wheaton. He graduated from Onaga High School in 1970 and earned his Bachelor of Science in Accounting degree from Kansas State University in 1974.

Survivors include his wife, Melinda, of 34 years, daughters Emily Miller and Katie (Rick) Huffman and two grandchildren; brothers, Loren (Mary) Abitz, Dan (Diana) Abitz, Bruce Abitz, Paul (Amy) Abitz and ten nieces and nephews and their children. Ken was preceded in death by his parents, Chester and Florence (Stohs) Abitz and his sister-in-law, Melanie Abitz.

Ken loved spending time with his family and he especially loved his two grandchildren. Being Grandpa was what he did best. Helping others with his boundless energy, he participated in community volunteer service activities, church activities, projects, and 25 years of driving the church van.

Ken began his career as an Auditor for the Kansas Insurance Department and then worked for Security Benefit Life. In 2004 he returned to the Kansas Insurance Department, retiring as the Director of the Financial Surveillance Division in December of 2016.  He was a member of the Society of Financial Examiners and the Institute of Internal Auditors.

Following his retirement Ken joined the Upland Mutual Board of Directors. Ken was also on the Board of Trustees for the Black Jack Battlefield and Nature Park, Wellsville, Kansas.

A memorial for Ken is scheduled for 10 am April 24, 2021 at First Assembly of God Church, 500 SW 27th Street, Topeka.  Inurnment will follow the service at Memorial Park, Topeka.

Ken's memorial service will be live streamed at 10 am on April 24 on the following link: Facebook.com/topekafirstag

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to

Topeka Habitat for Humanity

Black Jack Battlefield Trust, Inc.