Darrel Dean Witham

Darrel Dean Witham, Topeka, Kansas, died Thursday, July 28, 2016. He was born August 3, 1931, in Topeka, Kansas, the son of Chester “Sharkey” and Marie (Bitler) Witham.

He graduated from Seaman High School in 1949 and attended Washburn University.

Darrel served in the U. S. Air Force as Airborne Radar Technician and employed by the Federal Government for three years maintaining the NIKE-Missile Defense Systems that surrounded Kansas City. He was employed by WIBW TV-AM-FM ending his 23 year career in broadcasting as the General Manager of WIBW Radio and FM. He then served as Recorder-Business Manager for ARAB Shrine Temple for twenty-four years and three months earning him the title of Emeritus Recorder.

Darrel’s memberships included: Cub Master, Scout Master, and Past-Governor, Kansas District, Kiwanis International (1977-78). His Masonic and Shrine memberships included, Past Master of Siloam Lodge # 225, AF & AM; Topeka Scottish Rite; Topeka York Rite; Arab Shriners; Order of Quetzalcoatl; Past Director, Court #125, Royal Order of Jesters; Past President, Imperial Shrine Recorders Association; Director’s Staff; Provost Guard; Saint Augustine Conclave, Red Cross of Constantine; Demolay Knights; Arab Patrol; Arab Escorts; Legion of Honor; and Lake of the Ozarks Shrine Club.

Darrel married Margaret Joan Cohorst on September 6, 1950. She preceded him in death on December 14, 1989.

He is survived by his sister: Daytha McNorton of Topeka; his son Darrel “Dee” Witham (Michelle) of Hutchinson; daughter: Ann Blosser (Gary) of Overbrook; grandchildren: Cole Witham of Houston, TX, Rachel Kaufman (Chris) of Manhattan, Jennifer Kerns of Easton, MD, and John Blosser of Louisburg; and great-grandsons: John and Michael Kerns. The family would like to thank “Lady” June Parre for the many happy years they spent together.

Funeral services will be at 1:00 PM, Monday, August 1, 2016 at Penwell-Gabel Parker-Price Chapel, 245 NW Independence Avenue, Topeka followed by Rose Croix Services. Siloam Lodge # 225, AF & AM will conduct Masonic Graveside Services at Rochester Cemetery, 1200 NW Menninger Road, Topeka.

Darrel will lie in state from 3:00 to 8:30 PM, Sunday, at the funeral chapel where the family will receive friends from 4:00 to 6:00 PM.

Memorial contributions may be made to Arab Temple’s Children’s Travel Fund, 1305 Kansas Avenue, Topeka, Kansas 66612.

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