Clarence "Tom" Hartwich Jr.

Clarence “Tom” Hartwich Jr., age 81, peacefully passed away on Saturday, February 28th, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.

Born in Riverside, California, he was the son of Clarence Sr. and Ethel Hartwich (Holdren). Tom's educational journey began with attending Topeka schools. He attended Wentworth Military Academy for 2 years, and contnued at Silverlake High School where he graduated. He also attended Washburn University and University of Oklahoma.

Tom met Janice Faust through a friend and their connection blossomed. They married at Lowman United Methodist Church in Topeka, Kansas. They both welcomed two children, Jay and Christy, and spent more than 60 wonderful years together.

Professionally, Tom served as the Executive Director of Housekeeping at Memorial Hospital in Topeka for nearly two decades, following this he worked for Kaw Area Technical School where he developed curriculum for and presented training sessions for the State of Kansas Housekeeping employees. Tom then went on to work for TARC as an Area Instructor and Job Coach until his retirement in 2006.

Outside of work, Tom found great joy in the outdoors. He enjoyed golfing, fishing, going on campouts with Jay’s boy scout troop. He also enjoyed attending auctions and cooking for the family, especially his famous homemade chicken and noodles.

Tom is survived by his loving wife, Janice Hartwich, his two children, Jay (Kim) Hartwich, and Christy (Jeff) Immenschuh, as well as 5 grand kids and 8 great grandkids, all of whom will miss him very much.

A visitation will take place on Thursday, March 5th 2026 from 5:00PM-7:00PM at Penwell Gabel Funeral Home, 1321 SW 10th Avenue Topeka, KS 66604. Funeral services will take place the following day at 10:00AM on Friday, March 6th, 2026 at Mount Hope Cemetery Chapel, 4700 SW 17th Street, Topeka, KS 66604 with interment immediately to follow.

The funeral service will be livestreamed and will begin 15 minutes before service time. To view the livestream, please click to register at the following link: Tom Hartwich Funeral Service Live Stream Link

The family suggests memorial contributions could be made to either TARC or the Fraternal Order of Police.

Make a memorial contribution to TARC: TARC Donation Link

Make a memorial contribution to the Fraternal Order of Police: Fraternal Order of Police Donation Link

Tom will be remembered for his unwavering love and concern for his family and his fun sense of humor. To leave condolences for the family, or share a special memory, please visit our guest book below