Dolores Irene Wilmers

Dolores Irene (Wichman) Wilmers, who entered this world 90+ years ago on November 12, 1934, in Topeka, Kansas, left it peacefully on August 1, 2025 at her home in Peoria, Arizona. She was the only daughter of Harry and Dora (Rockey) Wichman. A 1952 Topeka High School graduate, her first job was secretarial staff for the Kansas Highway Patrol. Advancement came as she was hired as Secretary for Colonel Hugh F. Edwards, Superintendent.

In 1953, Dolores met the love of her life, Karl Wilmers. They were married on January 30, 1955 when Karl returned from a tour of duty in Korea with the United States Air Force. The newlyweds were stationed in Long Island, New York for the first year of their marriage. They then made their home in Topeka and there welcomed a son Darrick (Janell), a daughter, Lori (Mike), and a son, Wesley (Tammy).

After the children were of school age, Dolores worked for the Kansas Insurance Department, becoming secretary to Insurance Commissioner Fletcher Bell. Later, Dolores served as church secretary for 10 years at St. Andrews Presbyterian Church, where she and Karl were members for over 60 years, and where her son-in-law, Mike, was pastor. She was an active member at St. Andrews, singing in the Choir and serving on the Board of Deacons and the Session.

Dolores was preceded in death by her parents, her brother Gilbert, and a stillborn son, Mark Elliott. She recently suffered the loss of her beloved husband, Karl, in 2021, and her firstborn son, Darrick, who passed a year later. She is survived by her children, Lori and Wes; seven grandchildren, Misty, Nathan, Jacob, Dalton, Courtney, Taryn, and Connor; three great-grandchildren, Zackary, Katelyn and Odette; a great-great grandson, Sebastian; and many nieces and nephews.

Graveside services and inurnment for both Dolores and Karl will be held at 12 noon on September 20, 2025, at Mt. Hope Cemetery, 4700 SW 17th Street, Topeka, KS. A reception will follow from 1-2 pm at St Andrews Presbyterian Church, 1821 SW 37th Street, Topeka, Kansas. All are welcome to attend.

Dolores dearly loved feeding the hummingbirds, so a fitting memorial to her would be to hang a hummingbird feeder of your own to enjoy. Memorial gifts may also be made to St. Andrews Presbyterian Church, or to the ASPCA.