Joseph O. Ehalt Sr.

Joseph O. Ehalt, Sr., known affectionately as Joe to his friends and family, passed into the arms of his Savior on August 21, 2025, at the age of 86 in Topeka, Kansas. Born on September 20, 1938, in Humboldt, Saskatchewan, Canada, to Carl Alvin Ehalt and Eleanora Margaret Theisen, Joe was the embodiment of a life well-lived, marked by devotion to his family, faith, and community.

Joe's journey began in the north, but his heart led him to the United States, where he proudly served his adopted country in the U.S. Air Force. His service was a testament to his character: selfless, dedicated, and courageous. Following his military tenure, Joe studied TV repair at Northwestern Television & Electronics Institute in Minneapolis, Minnesota. He then used that knowledge as he worked at Lewis and Long, Hubbell's, Pruitt, and Montgomery Wards. His work was not just a job; it was a passion for tinkering and innovation, which he pursued with joy in his personal workshop.

Family was Joe's greatest pride. He was a loving husband of 65 years to his wife, Carol (Wollen) Ehalt, and a guiding light to his children, Jean Kiekel (Darren), Patricia Temple (Allen), Jacqueline Crader (John), Pamela Maughmer (Glen), Janette Eitel (Monty), and Penny Ehalt. Though he grieved the loss of his son, Joseph Ehalt Jr., Joe's legacy continues through his 21 grandchildren, 24 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild, as well as many nieces and nephews who will remember his kindness, wisdom, and warmth of his smile.

Joe's Christian faith was the cornerstone of his life. He lived his beliefs through action, serving his church as a member of the Knights of Columbus, where he fostered fellowship and community through participation in various activities and initiatives.

Joe's love for sports was infectious, coaching five of his daughters in softball and his son in baseball. Joe was also a familiar face at the local bowling alley and a graceful presence on the square dance floor, sharing laughter and good times with all around him.

In his quieter moments, Joe found solace in woodworking, crafting pieces that were as much a part of him as his steadfast spirit. Each creation, a labor of love, will stand as a testament to his patience and artistry.

We imagine that as Joe crossed over into the eternal embrace of his Creator, he did so with a twinkle in his eye, ready to share a good-natured joke with the angels. As we bid farewell to this remarkable man, we celebrate the enduring legacy of Joseph O. Ehalt, Sr. His story does not end here, for he lives on in the hearts of his family, friends, and the countless lives he enriched with his presence. May we honor his memory by living with the same integrity, generosity, and love that he so effortlessly embodied.

Mass of Christian Burial: Saturday, September 20, 2025 at St. Matthews Catholic Church, 2700 SE Virginia Ave., Topeka, KS 66605

9:30 Visitation Starts

10:30 Rosary

11:00 Funeral Mass – lunch to follow the mass

Burial following lunch at Lynn Creek Cemetery, 2038 SE 61st St., Berryton, KS 66409

Family suggests memorial contributions to Helping Hands Humane Society, 5720 SW 21st St., Topeka, KS 66604 or Phoenix Home Care and Hospice, 2945 SW Wanamaker Dr B, Topeka, KS 66614