Travis James Vathauer

Travis James Vathauer, age 45 of Topeka, passed away Sunday, August 3, 2025, at St. Francis Hospital in Topeka.

He was born on November 18, 1979, in Hanover, the son of Jim and Arlyss (Anderson) Vathauer. Travis was baptized and confirmed at St. Peters Lutheran Church south of Barnes. He graduated from Clay Center Community High School, received his bachelor’s degree from Tulane University and his master’s degree from Kansas State University.

From a young age, Travis had a passion for foreign affairs, politics and government, at national and state levels. For the past eight years, he worked as a legislative assistant for Democrats serving at the State Capital in Topeka. Travis was a proud Democrat and always ready to argue and defend the things he believed in. As one of his representatives said, “Travis was a rare gem.” He made lasting and respectful friendships with representatives of both parties.

Travis loved soccer and enjoyed bringing family and friends for a good time at KC Sporting games. Travis was not an “outdoorsy” person, but Wendy persuaded him to go camping a couple of times this summer. He couldn’t say he enjoyed it, but he survived! He would have gone again, just for her.

He is survived by his parents, Jim and Arlyss Vathauer of Clay Center; two brothers, Cole Vathauer (Shannon) of Topeka and Brady Vathauer (Amanda) of Olsburg; six nieces and nephews, Kaylie, Addison, Jaxon, Benjamin, Brooks and Raelynn; a large extended family of aunts, uncles, cousins, and many many friends. Travis was blessed to have a very special relationship with his nephew, Jaxon, and he had the best friend anyone could ever have, Wendy Damman-Bednar.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Dean and Dolores Vathauer and Leonard and Marjorie Anderson.

The family will receive friends from 2:00 until 4:00 p.m. Sunday, August 10, 2025, at the Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral Home.

A memorial service will be held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, August 11, 2025, at the Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral Home with Sister Terese Bangert officiating. Lunch will follow the memorial service at Vathauer Catering, 1510 18th Road, Clay Center, Kansas.

Memorials may be made to the Travis Vathauer Memorial Fund left in care of the Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral Home, P.O. Box 176, Riley, Kansas 66531.