Donald Charles Bliss, 85, of Topeka, died on Tuesday, February 24, 2015 at Brewster Place.

Donald was born on November 12, 1929 in Oskaloosa, KS the son of Daryl and Virginia (Loomis) Bliss.

He graduated from Topeka High School in 1948. He continued his studies at Washburn University and the University of Kansas graduating with a Master’s degree in Physical Education.

Donald spent his entire career at Topeka High School where he worked in many different roles including teacher, coach, activities director, and administrator; Donald retired from USD 501 in 1992 after many years of service.

He served his country honorably in the United States Air Force from 1954-1956 as a squadron commander at Francis E. Warren Air Force Base in Cheyenne, WY.

Donald was married to Paula Stuenkel on August 19, 1951 in Topeka, KS.

He was an active member of First Congregational Church for many years. He loved to travel with his family and was an avid Caribbean cruiser.

He is survived by his wife, Paula of Topeka; children, Gary (Teresa) of Topeka, Linda (Jeff) Thiele of Columbia, MO, Nancy (Keith) Ice of Overland Park, and Tom (Debra) of Overland Park; brothers, Robert (Betty) Bliss Kansas City, KS and Jerry (Margo) Bliss of Auburn; six grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, by one brother, Ronald Bliss and one sister, Mary Sue Bliss.

Donald will lie in state after 3:00 p.m. on Friday, February 27 at the Penwell-Gabel Mid-Town Chapel in Topeka, where the family will receive friends from 5:00-7:00 p.m.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, February 28 at First Congregational Church, 1701 SW Collins Ave., Topeka. Burial will follow in Mount Hope Cemetery in Topeka.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer's Association, 3625 SW 29th St. Suite 102, Topeka, KS 66614.

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