Tad Roger Estes

Tad R. Estes, 86, of Topeka, Ks, passed away February 5th, 2026, at Midland Hospice House in Topeka.

Tad was born October 19, 1939, in Topeka, Ks, to L. Keith and Lillian Elizabeth (Larson) Estes. He was the youngest brother to Jim and Jerry, growing up in the Potwin neighborhood of Topeka, Kansas. Tad attended Potwin Elementary, Roosevelt Jr High, Topeka High and Washburn University.

Tad married Sally Cowell Jones October 30, 1958. They had 2 children: Kari & Tod. Tad & Sally divorced in 1971. Tad also married Christie Perry, and Kathy Chambers. Both marriages ended in divorce. On Christmas Day 1986, he married Gail Lainson. They divorced in 2024 but remained friends.

Tad was a member of St. Andrews Presbyterian Church in Topeka.

Tad’s career was focused in sales and consisted of selling advertising for WIBW TV, KEWI & KMAJ Radio stations in Topeka, as well as radio stations in Kansas City and Columbia, Mo. Later in life, he sold cars for Laird Noller and Honeyman Auto Plaza, both in Topeka.

Tad is survived by a brother; Jerry Estes of Topeka, a daughter; Kari (Gale) Myers of Meriden, Ks, a son; Tod Estes of Topeka, 2 grandchildren; Jasmine (Alan) Rohrbaugh of Meriden, Cody Myers (Calli Threet) of Wamego, a step granddaughter; Amber (Jarin) Huske of Topeka, 6 great–grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews.

He was a diehard KU Basketball & KC Chiefs fan. He also enjoyed cars, music and movies and of course, Gunsmoke reruns. Aside from his family, Tad loved dogs, and he had several throughout his life.

Tad was preceded in death by his beloved parents, 2 infant sisters Corrine & Sue, a toddler brother Lyle Keith, and his eldest brother: Jim of Ithaca, NY.

Cremation is planned. The family will meet friends @ 1 pm followed by a Celebration of Life scheduled for February 23, 2026, at Mt Hope Cemetery Chapel located at 4700 SW 17th St., Topeka, Ks 66604. Private interment will follow.

Memorial contributions may be made to: Helping Hands Humane Society of Topeka.