Dennis M. Gifford

Dennis M. Gifford, 54, of Topeka, died November 3, 2011 at his home. He was born in Topeka, Kansas on February 8, 1957 the son of Billy Don and Beverly (Shane) Gifford. Dennis was employed by Westar Energy and worked at the Jeffery Energy Center in Mechanical Maintenance. He enjoyed working on cars and any projects around the house. He especially loved spending time with his children and grandchildren. Dennis married Mary Jo (Hoss) Kern in Topeka, Kansas on August 8, 2008. She survives. He is also survived by nine children; Justin Gifford of St. Louis, Mo., Kacie Herrera of Denver, Tanner Gifford of Olathe, and Jeremy, Anthony, Alexis, Gabrielle, Aliya and Trinity Gifford all of Silver Lake, two grandchildren, Tatum and Zaben Herrera, a sister Donita Krug, three step children, Emily Kern of Columbia, Mo., Autumn Johnson of Topeka and Ben Kern of Topeka, four step grandchildren, Jade and Riley Kern. Niome Johnson, and Zoe Johnson. He was preceded in death by his parents, Billy Gifford and Beverly Huff, and a sister Teresa Barnes. Dennis will lie in state at the Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home on Saturday after 1:00 p.m. where the family will receive friends from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. Funeral services will follow at 6:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Cremation will follow services with inurnment to be held later at the Prairie Center Cemetery in Burlingame, Ks. Memorial contributions may be made in his memory to the Dennis Gifford Memorial Fund to assist the family and sent in care of Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home, 800 SW 6th Ave., Topeka, Kansas 66603. Online condolences and fond memories may be made to www.brennanmathenafh.com.