Donn G Topliff

Donnie Gene Topliff was born December 26, 1934, to Clarence E. and Marguerite (Parker) Topliff at Jewell, Kansas, and died Monday, March 3, 2014, at the Republic County Hospital, Belleville, Kansas, at the age of 79 years, 2 months, and 5 days.

Donn went to Sweet Home School and Jewell High School. He graduated from Jewell High School, in Jewell, Kansas. Donn lived most of his life in Jewell County. He also lived in Sterling, Colorado, several towns in North Central Kansas, and Dillar, Nebraska, before returning to Jewell.

He married Linda Lee Sample. To this union three children were born. They later divorced.

Donn was a farmer and stockman. He was interested in preserving the agricultural history of the county, by attending Antique Tractor shows, was a member of the Central Kansas Flywheel Club, Salina, Kansas, and the International Harvester Collectors Club, Kansas Chapter 3, since 1995. Donn was also a member in the Trinity United Methodist Church, Jewell; Moose International, Concordia, Kansas, Fraternal Order of Eagles, Eagles Motorcycle Group, and was always willing to help the V.F.W. in Beloit with their projects.

Donn had served his country in the Kansas Army National Guard. He was patriotic. Donn never met a stranger. You were just a few seconds from being a new friend. He would start the conversation by asking, “What you doing?”

Donn was preceded in death by his parents; and a daughter – Denile Bradshaw.

He is survived by his special friend – Sally Rowe, Beloit, Kansas; son – Dan Topliff and fiancée, Beckie of Manhattan, Kansas; daughter – Donna and husband, John Walsh of Creston, Iowa; 8 grandchildren; and a host of other relatives and friends.

Service for Donn G. Topliff, was held Friday, March 7, 2014, at 11:30 a.m., at the Jewell Cemetery, Jewell, Kansas, with Pastor Jim Rice officiating. “Amazing Grace,” was played from a recording by Curt Shoemaker. Casket bearers were: Curtis Saint, Nathan Saint, LeRoy Buser, Ron Smith, John Hajny, and Frank Lave. Interment followed the service in the cemetery. The family suggests memorials may be made in Donn G. Topliff’s name to the donor’s choice. Friends may sign the register book, Wednesday, March 5, 2014, from 1:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. and on Thursday, March 6, 2014, from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Melby Mortuary, Mankato, Kansas.

Melby Mortuary, Mankato, Kansas, was in charge of arrangements.