Billy Max Swan

Billy Max Swan, 91, Topeka, Kansas passed away 4/30/2026 at home with family. Billy was born in Caney, Ks in 1935. After graduation from Caney High School he moved to Topeka, Kansas to complete Barber School with the intent to use that skill to work his way through college. Instead he found a job as a fireman with Continental Can Company in Coffeyville, Ks. It was in Coffeyville where he met Wyvonna Ellen Eli. They were married 10/7/1955.

The two moved to Topeka in 1956 where Billy took a position as a psychiatric childcare worker while attending Washburn University. In 1957 he joined the Air Force and was assigned as an administrative specialist in Iceland where he got to utilize his barber training and was hired by the Iceland government. Following the assignment in Iceland, they moved to Randolph Air Force Base in San Antonio, TX. There Billy operated a military dependent youth recreational center.

Upon discharge from the Air Force in 1961 he accepted the position of Director of Military Dependent Youth Activities at Forbes Air Force Base in Topeka. After the move back to Topeka, Billy returned to school at Washburn University graduating in 1964. After graduation he was hired as a counselor at Vocational Rehabilitation Unit. During this time he also joined his first band playing bass guitar playing shows two to three nights a week.

In May of 1968, Billy and Wyvonna became the proud parents of William “Bryan” Swan. In 1969, Billy returned to school at Emporia State University for graduate school in rehabilitation counseling which was completed in 1972. All the while continuing to play in multiple local bands. Before his retirement in 1996, Billy worked for other local agencies as counselor and instructor.

Billy is survived by his wife of 70 years Wyvonna (Eli) Swan. Son William “Bryan” Swan (Stephanie). Four grandchildren Christopher Swan (Zoe), Ryan Swan, Megan Swan, and Elena Swan. Two step-grandchildren Kathryn Jacobsen (Griffin), Oli Amick. As well as two great-grandchildren Anwen Swan, and Vesper Swan.

The family will be receiving guests for the memorial at Penwell-Gabel Funeral Home 1321 SW 10th Ave, Topeka, KS 66604 on Wednesday May 13, 2026 4:00-6:00pm.

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