Thomas Whitmer

Thomas Edward Whitmer, 86, Topeka, Kansas passed away peacefully on December 10, 2025, at Stormont Vail Hospital with his family by his side. Born on February 7, 1939, in Arkansas City, Kansas to Albert and Inez Whitmer. He was a devoted husband to Trenna Delores Shields Whitmer for 58 years, they were married in 1967.

Thomas is survived by his wife; son, Joshua (Abby); daughters, Carrie (Shane) and Sherrie; grandchildren, Kerek, Abbey, Madi, Chase, and Paul; great-grandchildren, Ella, Paisleigh, Alaiya, Emelia, and Ryett. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Thomas graduated from Dorrance High School, located in Dorrance, Kansas in 1957. The highlight of his high school days was winning the State Basketball Championship during his senior year.

Thomas served in the United States Navy from 1958 to 1965 aboard the USS Sea Cat (diesel submarine) and the USS Seadragon (nuclear submarine). He was aboard the submarine that went to the North Pole for the first time ever. While at the pole, Thomas and the crew members played a game of baseball on the glaciers.

Thomas graduated from Washburn University in 1970 with a Bachelor of Science in Physics. While attending Washburn, he enjoyed the astronomy classes and spent many evenings in Crane Observatory looking at various galaxies, stars, and planets through the telescope.

Thomas joined the Kansas Army National Guard and served in the 137th Army Aviation Heavy Lift Helicopter Company from 1972 to 1989. He was a flight engineer on the CH-54 Sky Crane. While serving, one of their missions was to supply feed for cattle in Western Kansas during snowstorms.

Thomas worked for Blue Cross and Blue Shield for many years as a Systems Analyst where he eventually retired in 2002.

Some of his favorite hobbies included fishing on his pontoon boat at Lake Perry, hunting for pheasant in Western Kansas, and taking trips on his Honda Goldwing motorcycle.

Thomas was a true family man that loved spending time with his kids and grandkids. He enjoyed reminiscing about the old Navy days with his shipmates, and sharing those stories with friends, fellow veterans, and his family. He will be missed dearly by many.

Visitation will be 9 to 10 a.m. Wednesday, December 17, 2025, at Mater Dei Holy Name Catholic Church, 1114 SW 10th Avenue, Topeka KS 66604, where Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Burial will follow in Mount Calvary Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Church and sent in care of Kevin Brennan Family Funeral Home, 2801 SW Urish Road, Topeka KS 66614.

Condolences may be sent online to www.kevinbrennanfamily.com.