Gayle K. Chestnut

Gayle K. Chestnut, 70, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Friday, July 24, 2026, at the University of Kansas Medical Center.

Gayle was born on January 21, 1956, in Topeka, Kansas, to Glenn and Audrey Chestnut. He graduated from Topeka West High School with the Class of 1974. He married Laurie Campbell on June 13, 1998, and together they built a life centered on family.

Throughout his career, Gayle worked for Mile’s Motorcycle, Kent-Brown Chevrolet, Bob Brown’s Auto Service Center, and Amarr Garage Doors, where he built lasting relationships and continued to share his mechanical skills and strong work ethic.

Gayle was happiest when he had a wrench in his hand or was surrounded by engines, race cars, and the people he loved. He had a passion for mechanical projects—although those who knew him best would jokingly say many of them were works in progress. He loved drag racing and spent countless hours at the racetrack doing what he loved. Over the years, he worked on and helped maintain multiple different cars, always finding satisfaction in keeping engines running. His knowledge of mechanics and problem-solving seemed endless, and he was always the first person his sons called whenever they needed advice, help, or simply someone who could figure out how to fix just about anything.

He is survived by his two sons, Joe Campbell and his wife, Amy, of Rolla, Missouri, and Matt Campbell and his wife, Kristie, of Lawrence, Kansas; his beloved grandchildren, Crew, Daxton, Eleanor, Alexis, and Tanner; his brother, John Chestnut, of Topeka, Kansas; along with extended family and many friends who will miss his generous spirit, quick wit, and willingness to lend a helping hand.

Gayle was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Laurie Chestnut; and his parents, Glenn and Audrey Chestnut.

Though his family will deeply miss his stories, his mechanical expertise, and his unwavering support, they find comfort in the memories he leaves behind and the lasting impact he had on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Funeral services will take place on Saturday, August 1st, 2026 at Penwell Gabel Funeral Home, 1321 SW 10th Avenue Topeka, KS 66604, with a visitation from 10:00-11:00am, and funeral services to immediately follow. Burial will take place at West Lawn Memorial Gardens Cemetery. 

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