Ronnie "Ron" R. Vawter

Ronnie “Ron” R. Vawter, age 74, of Topeka, KS, passed away on Thursday, August 28, 2025, at St. Francis Hospital with his loved ones by his side.

He was born the son of William L. Vawter, Sr., and Agonia M. Koci on May 15, 1951, in Topeka, KS. Ron was raised by his mother and father, Ralph (Bud) Boydston, Sr. He attended schools in Topeka and graduated from Highland Park High School in 1969. He retired from Hallmark Cards.

On August 16, 1975, Ron married his beloved sweetheart, Anita M. Hunninghake at St. Matthew Catholic Church, sharing and celebrating 50 years of marriage. In his younger years, Ron loved to dance, hunt, fish, and especially bowl before Multiple Sclerosis disabled him. Bowling held a special place in his heart as his cherished grandchildren share the same passion for bowling as their Papa. Ron loved supporting his wonderful daughter in any way he could, whether it be spending time with her, going to her events, watching her bowl, growing up or making things for her students once she became a teacher. Being a sports fan, you could find Ron cheering on his favorite sports and teams that included the KC Royals, KC Chiefs, KU Jayhawks, and K-State Wildcats. Even with his ailing health, Ron stayed busy putting together puzzles and making an assortment of arts and crafts and watching his favorite sports teams and pro bowling on TV.

Survivors include his devoted wife, Anita M. Vawter; beloved daughter, Lisa M. Duncan and his son-in-law, Travis Duncan; his pride and joy grandchildren, Kayla M. and Trevor J. Duncan; his two brothers, Marvin Vawter and Ralph (Buddy) Boydston, Jr.; additional siblings, Bill Vawter, Jr., Shirley Vawter, and Sherrie Leiker. Other survivors include several nieces and nephews.

Ron was preceded in death by his mother and father, Agonia and Ralph Boydston, Sr.; father and stepmother, William L. Vawter Sr., and Emma Vawter.

Ron will lie in state from 5-8:00 P.M., with a rosary being prayed at 6:00 P.M., on Wednesday, September 3, 2025, at Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home.

Funeral service will be at 10:00 A.M., on Thursday, September 4, at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Mt. Calvary Cemetery-Topeka, KS. Family requests casual attire, supporting your favorite sports team in remembrance of Ron’s passion for sports.

Memorial contributions can be made in Ron's memory to Mother Teresa of Calcutta Catholic Church-Building Fund. Contributions can be mailed or left with the funeral home.

Arrangements entrusted to Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home, 800 SW 6th Ave., Topeka, KS 66603.