Clifton Wabaunsee 1981-2026

Clifton “Wasato” John Wabaunsee, 45, Topeka, died Friday, Aug. 21, 2026, at Stormont-Vail Regional Medical Center in Topeka.

He was born March 6, 1981, in Holton, the son of Richard Wabaunsee and Peggy C. Romero.

Mr. Wabaunsee worked for Joe Conroy Contractors as a concrete finisher in Topeka.

He was a member of the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation and a member of Our Lady of Snows Catholic Church.

Survivors include his children, Jalisa, Colton and Phoenix Wabaunsee, all of Green Bay, Wisc.; a sister, Lindsey Wabaunsee, Topeka; two brothers, Ricky Wabaunsee, Horton, and Gregory Wabaunsee, Topeka; stepchildren, Dakota and Josh Waupoose, both of Green Bay, Wisc.; a niece, Rosalind Wabaunsee, Topeka; and two nephews, Simon Mesa, Holton, and Dominick Wabaunsee, Topeka.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Richard and Peggy; a sister, Lasie Wabaunsee; and a brother, Richard Wabaunsee Jr.

A rosary will be recited at 6 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 26 at Nozhackhum Hall with a wake to follow. Ttibekwe and Wake will be held Thursday, Aug. 27 at Nozhackum Hall. Burial will be held at 10 a.m. Friday, Aug. 28 at Shipshee Cemetery. Mercer Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.