Virgil M. Kipers, Sr., 94, of Tecumseh, passed away on Wednesday, February 15, 2017 at a Topeka care facility. He was born June 8, 1922 in Augusta, Kansas, the son of John and Florence May (Weeks) Kipers.

Virgil graduated from Augusta High School in 1940. He was a Navy Veteran during WWII. Virgil was employed by the Santa Fe Railroad for over 46 years before retiring. He was a member of the Highland Park United Methodist Church, the United Methodist Church in Augusta and the American Legion.

Virgil married Juanita Jane Kipers on June 7, 1942 in Augusta. She preceded him in death on August 16, 2004. He was also preceded in death by one daughter, Janet K. Colbert on February 17, 2013 and his granddaughter, Kelley Kipers in 1974.

Survivors include their children, Virgil M. Kipers, Jr. of Littleton, CO, Gary L. Kipers of Pierce City, MO and Karla K. Richardson of Topeka, grandchildren, Kandee, Kathy, Tracy, Boyce, Rhea, Kortney, Racheal, and Gary, ten great-grandchildren and his brother, Gerald Kipers of Topeka.

Services will be held at 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, February 21, 2017 at the Highland Park United Methodist Church. Graveside committal services will follow at 3:00 p.m. at Elmwood Cemetery in Augusta.

Virgil will lie in state and the family will receive friends from 6:00 - 7:00 p.m. Monday, February 20, 2017 at Penwell-Gabel Southeast Chapel.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to the Highland Park United Methodist Church, 2914 S.E. Michigan Ave., Topeka, Kansas 66605 or to the American Heart Association, 3816 Paysphere Circle, Chicago, IL 60674.

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