Wayne Fernkopf 1928-2017
M. Wayne Fernkopf, 89, passed away peacefully on May 30, 2017.
Wayne was born April 23, 1928, to Philip and Alta Fernkopf in Brown County, Kansas. After high school he enlisted in the Army. He was stationed at Fort Belvoir, Va., where he served as a Clerk. Wayne enrolled at Kansas State University, where he met his wife, Barbara Barker. Wayne and Barbara were married in Manhattan on Oct. 7, 1950. They were married 67 years.
Upon earning bachelor’s and master’s degrees in education, Wayne and Barbara moved to Axtell, where Wayne began his teaching career at Axtell High. The couple then moved to Topeka, where Wayne taught English for 30 years, beginning at Highland Park High, where he also taught drama, and then at Topeka West High School, where he remained for the rest of his career.
At Topeka West, Wayne was a dedicated, well-known and respected teacher in the English Department. Throughout his career he was an active member of the National Education Association.
Wayne enjoyed Kansas history and is fondly remembered for visiting historical sites. He and Barbara loved to drive the backroads of Kansas and the western states, visiting many places off the beaten path. He also enjoyed the outdoors and long walks. His family will always lovingly remember summers spent at his rustic cabin called the “Timberstrip,” just south of Circleville, where he would help out with summer chores on both his father’s and brother’s farms.
Wayne will especially be remembered as a loving and doting husband, son and father.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Phillip and Alta Fernkopf; and his grandson, Corey Baker. He is survived by his wife, Barbara Fernkopf; his daughter, Kam Baker; his son, Kelsey Fernkopf; his granddaughter, Crystal Cummings; and his great-grandson, Jayden Baker; as well as his brother and sister-in-law, Allen and Mary Jo Fernkopf.
No services are planned at this time. Mercer Funeral Home in Holton is assisting the family with funeral arrangements. To leave a special message for the family, please visit www.mercerfuneralhomes.com
(PAID OBITUARY)
