David Ray Ast

David Ray Ast, 68, of Topeka, Kansas, died September 10 doing one of the things he loved most – hiking Colorado trails with beloved friends.
Dave was born on September 18, 1955, in Emporia to Virginia (Cuadra) and Harold Ast. He was the fifth of their seven kids. He enjoyed a successful career at BNSF Railway mainly because that's where he met his best friend, Deborah Palmer. They married in May 1982 and eventually settled in Lake Sherwood, where they raised two wonderful children. Dave was active in the Boy Scouts of America, where he attained the rank of Eagle Scout in his younger days and volunteered with the Jayhawk Area Council throughout his life. He earned the prestigious Silver Beaver Award in 2007 for his decades of service.
Dave was a large personality who was never shy to share a story, laugh, or a cold one with anyone who would listen even when he couldn't. He often imparted his tales of wisdom on camping trips with his brothers and nephews, at social functions around the Lake, and, of course, all the barstools around Topeka. Dave always appreciated gathering with family and friends; he knew life was short and the best way to enjoy it was with those you love. He had an innate gift for seeking fun. Even when he was doing mundane tasks like fixing something around the house or mowing his pristine lawn, you could hear him humming a tune to amuse himself.
His reputation extended far and wide along the railroad and around the globe. Upon retirement, he and Debbie enjoyed taking extended trips to many different countries where they soaked up the local culture and customs. Dave also used the extra time on his hands to expand his classic license plate collection, play host at many Ast family get-togethers, and watch even more sporting events, including the Chiefs and Jayhawks. He blissfully returned to work as "Opa" when his granddaughter Reese was born in October 2022. He cherished every moment reading Wheels on the Bus, going for ice cream, or swinging in the backyard.
Dave was preceded in death by his parents, his parents-in-law Helen (Rodighiero) and Zach Palmer, his brother John, and siblings-in-law Terri (John), Marilyn (Tom), Bob Ammon (Susan), and RaeAnn (Mike).
He is survived by his wife Debbie, daughter Cori (Jay Grimes), granddaughter Reese, son Alex (Morgan Ast), his partner-in-crime Labrador Retriever Lucy, along with scores of family and friends.
A Memorial Mass will be held on Monday, September 16 at 1:30 p.m. at Christ the King Church, 5973 SW 25th Street in Topeka. A Celebration of Life will follow at the Lake Sherwood Clubhouse, 6910 SW Fountaindale Road in Topeka. It surely won't be as fun without him.