Walter Gary Brown

Walter Gary Brown passed away peacefully on November 10, 2025, in his hometown of Topeka, Kansas. Born on December 21, 1944, also in Topeka, Gary's life was a testament to his enduring spirit and the love he bestowed upon those around him.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents, Walter S. and Ida Mae Brown, his siblings LeRoy Brown, Carol Boten, Pearl Brown, and Larry Brown. He leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories with his devoted wife of 64 years, Shirley Brown, his brother Mike (Barb) Brown, his children Gary 'Scott' (Kathy) Brown, Bob (Becky) Brown, and Tami (Carlos) Cortez, his grandchildren Rick (ChrisTina) Taylor, Cheryl (Curtis) Large, Travis (Jennifer) Brown, Trey (Emma) Brown, Erin (Kevin) Jackson, Kyle Gudenkauf, Sudia (Pablo) Martinez, Adrianna (Daniel) Voth, and Maria (TJ) Wright, along with 25 great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.

Gary attended Highland Park High School. His career began in sales, where his outgoing personality helped him to be successful. In the early 1980s, Gary transitioned into carpentry, a field where his handy and creative nature excelled until his retirement in 2008, after years of crafting and building not just structures, but also relationships and friendships through his work.

Gary's interests were as diverse as his skills. An avid fisherman, hunter, and camper, he embraced the great outdoors with an adventurous spirit. His varied interests included dancing, card playing and visiting with friends, but he was most at peace when he was on the water with a rod in his hands.

Gary's wit, wisdom, and unwavering support will be profoundly missed by all who knew him. He was not just the patriarch of his family but also a cornerstone in the lives of many, providing guidance and laughter in equal measure. His legacy will live on through the lives of his family, the structures he built, and the countless memories shared with those who were fortunate enough to know him.

The family would like to express their gratitude for the exceptional care provided by Dr. Brandon Weckbaugh, Dr. Sola Kim, Dr. Bradley Schroeder and their wonderful staff.

We will bid farewell to Walter Gary Brown in a celebration of life to be held on Friday, November 21, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM at the old NEHI Bottling Co., 1016 N. Kansas Ave, Topeka, Kansas followed with burial at Mt. Zion Cemetery, 21400 S. Croco Rd., Vassar, Kansas.

Family recommends in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Stormont Vail Foundation, cc: Palliative Medicine and Supportive Care, sent in care of Midwest Cremation, Inc., 525 SE 37th St, Topeka, Kansas 66605.