Jerry Raymond Cadwallader

Jerry Raymond Cadwallader, age 79, of Topeka, Kansas passed away on October 3rd, 2025 surrounded by family.

Born on August 10th, 1946, in the small town of Stuart, Nebraska, Jerry was the son of Guy and Claire (Potter) Cadwallader. He grew up in Nebraska, graduating from Fremont High School.

After high school, Jerry enlisted in the United States Air Force, where his dedication and commitment saw him rise to the rank of Staff Sergeant. During his time in the Air Force, Jerry attended the Aerospace Ground Equipment Repair School at Chanute Air Force Base, where he studied many technical skills that allowed him extensive travel repairing and maintaining military aircraft.

Always a hard worker, Jerry found joy in his role at Seymour Foods, memories he spoke about fondly even later in life. After Seymour, he devoted over two decades to Hallmark Cards as an equipment mechanic and HVAC technician. During his time at Hallmark, his professional journey intertwined with his personal life when he met his beautiful wife, Judy. They spent 3 decades together as a couple, until her passing in July 2020.

Beyond work, Jerry extended his passion into the art of barbecue, where he proudly became a lifetime member of the Kansas City BBQ Society, achieving the esteemed titles of Pit Master and Master Judge. Those who were fortunate enough to savor his barbecue, know of its legendary flavors and taste. He taught countless people the art of judging barbecue competitions.

Jerry was known as a quiet, laid back guy with a great smile who was often found sitting at the bar of the Blind Tiger drinking his Maibock in a mug with a slice of lemon. His zest for life also included watching NASCAR races, cooking, talking about cooking, chopping firewood, competitive darts and spending as much time as possible with his family and friends. He was also a superb craftsman, and took immense pride in his Welsh and Apache Indian heritage. True to his Nebraska roots, he remained a steadfast supporter of his beloved Nebraska Corn Huskers.

Jerry is preceded in death by his mother and father, his brother, Leo King, and his beloved wife, Judy.

He is survived by his daughter, Mandy Hartshorn (Kevin Clawson), step-daughters, Traci Menke, Dusti Peddle, and Pamela Thompson, as well as his former wives, Linda Weckwerth and Glenda Perkins. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Taylor Hartshorn, Ryan Padilla (Emily), Melissa Flynn (Kyle) and his great grandchildren. All of whom will miss him very much.

A memorial visitation will take place on Saturday, November 1st, 2025 at Mount Hope Cemetery Chapel, 4700 SW 17th Street, Topeka, KS, 66604 from 10:00-11:00AM, followed by a memorial service beginning at 11:00AM with military honors.

For those who are unable to attend, the service will be livestreamed and will begin 15 minutes before service time. To view the service, please click the link here: Jerry Cadwallader Memorial Service Livestream

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests making memorial contributions in Jerry's name to an organization close to your heart.

Jerry's legacy will live on in the hearts (and stomachs!) of all who knew him, remembered not only for his strength and kindness, but also for the quiet joy and love he brought into the lives of those around him.

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