Herbert Bruce Marshall

Herbert Bruce “H.B.” Marshall, 79, of Topeka, passed away peacefully at Stormont Vail Health on July 27, 2025. He was surrounded in his last days by relatives who loved him.

H.B. was born June 29, 1946, in Topeka to Lois (Wilson) and Joseph Marshall. He graduated from Topeka West High School in 1964 and earned a degree in business from the University of Kansas in 1968. At KU, he played football on a full scholarship and was a member of Sigma Chi fraternity.

In Topeka, H.B. was a Realtor and owned a home construction business.

A lot can be said about H.B. He was an admired son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, uncle, and cousin. He was a sailor (past Commodore of the Shawnee Yacht Club), carpenter, builder, reader, hamburger lover, story teller, triathlete, nature lover, motorcyclist, fly fisherman, guitar player, car fanatic, photographer, and bird watcher. He enjoyed spending time at his farm south of Topeka. He was naturally witty and a friend to many.

H.B. married Leah (Ott) Gabler on July 10, 1987 in Topeka. She survives at the home. Other survivors include daughter Jennifer McKnight; son Tucker Marshall (Kristina); grandchildren Griffin McKnight, Connor McKnight, Elizabeth Marshall, and Cate Marshall; sister JoAnn Pfuetze; niece Jill Schmidt (Andy) and son Joe; nephew Robb Pfuetze (Susan) and son Bryce and daughter Ally; cousins Jay Wilson and Marty (Earl) McCowen; and former wife Jeanne Marshall and her sons Hunter and Cutter. He was predeceased by his parents and son-in-law Todd McKnight.

A celebration of life will be held Sunday, August 17, 2025, from 1:30-3:00 pm at First Presbyterian Church of Topeka, 817 SW Harrison.