PAUL WASINGER
Owner / Funeral Director / Embalmer
I was born in Hays, KS and raised in Victoria, KS, the youngest of four children. I graduated from Victoria High School and attended Barton Community College in Great Bend and completed my Mortuary Science schooling at Kansas City Kansas Community College. In 2011, I became a licensed Funeral Director and Embalmer.
I married Stacy Winter in 2018, and together we have a daughter Braya that attends Most Pure Heart of Mary Catholic School and a son, Thayer that is in daycare. My wife Stacy is employed with Advisors Excel and our family are members of Most Pure Heart of Mary Catholic Church.
In July 2023, I co-purchased Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home along with my business partner, Curtis Foley. We had the honor of working alongside the former owner, Donna Mathena-Menke. It was Donna’s wish to continue her legacy and keep Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home as an independently owned funeral home in Topeka.
Along with being a member of Most Pure Heart of Mary Catholic Church, I am a member of the 20/30 Club of Topeka and the Kansas Funeral Directors Association.
In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my family, attending local city and area church events as well as being outdoors.
It is with great honor to serve Topeka and the surrounding communities with the same foundation of respect and dignity that has been associated with the funeral home since 1916.
PAUL WASINGER
Owner / Funeral Director / Embalmer
I was born in Hays, KS and raised in Victoria, KS, the youngest of four children. I graduated from Victoria High School and attended Barton Community College in Great Bend and completed my Mortuary Science schooling at Kansas City Kansas Community College. In 2011, I became a licensed Funeral Director and Embalmer.
I married Stacy Winter in 2018, and together we have a daughter Braya that attends Most Pure Heart of Mary Catholic School and a son, Thayer that is in daycare. My wife Stacy is employed with Advisors Excel and our family are members of Most Pure Heart of Mary Catholic Church.
In July 2023, I co-purchased Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home along with my business partner, Curtis Foley. We had the honor of working alongside the former owner, Donna Mathena-Menke. It was Donna’s wish to continue her legacy and keep Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home as an independently owned funeral home in Topeka.
Along with being a member of Most Pure Heart of Mary Catholic Church, I am a member of the 20/30 Club of Topeka and the Kansas Funeral Directors Association.
In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my family, attending local city and area church events as well as being outdoors.
It is with great honor to serve Topeka and the surrounding communities with the same foundation of respect and dignity that has been associated with the funeral home since 1916.
MARISOL MARCELO ESCOBAR
Assistant Funeral Director / Director of Marketing / Pre-Planning Specialist
I was raised in Topeka, Kansas, and graduated from Hayden Catholic High School in 2019. Growing up in Topeka gave me a deep love for this community and the people who make it feel like home. From a young age, I knew I wanted a life centered around helping others, serving my community, and making people feel welcomed, heard, and cared for. I studied Marketing and Business Administration, Mortuary Science, and Music Education, all of which have helped shape both my career and my passion for serving families.
I began my career in funeral service in 2020 at Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home. I am inspired to get up and work every morning because this career not only challenges me, but also allows me to use what I believe are my greatest strengths and qualities and, above all, my desire to serve others during some of the most difficult moments of their lives. Every day, this profession encourages me to grow into the best version of myself and reminds me that even the smallest act of kindness or comfort can make a lasting difference in someone’s life. Whether helping a family make arrangements for a loved one, guiding someone through the preplanning process, or simply offering a listening ear and comforting presence, I strive to ensure every family we serve feels supported, valued, and treated like family. As someone who was raised locally, it is especially meaningful to serve the same community that helped shape who I am today.
Outside of the funeral home, I remain deeply involved in the Topeka community. I currently serve on the Astra Mental Health & Recovery Foundation Board, am the President of the Our Lady of Guadalupe Altar Society, a member of the Daughters of Isabella Little Flower Circle, and serve on the Greater Topeka Partnership Equity and Opportunity Committee and the Leadership Greater Topeka Advisory Board. I am also involved with MANA de Topeka, serve as a mentor with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Shawnee County, and am an active member of Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church. I previously served as a commissioner for the City of Topeka Human Relations Commission, a board member of Child Care Aware of Eastern Kansas, and Publicity Chair for Fiesta Topeka.
In 2024, I was incredibly honored to receive the YWCA Women of Excellence Awards, be recognized through the NextGen Under 30 Kansas Recognition Program, and receive Topeka’s 20 Under 40 Award. I am also a proud graduate of the Kansas Emerging Leaders program through the Kansas Chamber.
My husband Anthony and I are proud to call Topeka home as we continue building our life and growing our family here. It is an honor and blessing to serve Topeka and the surrounding communities with compassion, kindness, and dignity while continuing the legacy of personalized care that has been associated with Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home since 1916.
MARISOL MARCELO ESCOBAR
Assistant Funeral Director / Director of Marketing / Pre-Planning Specialist
I was raised in Topeka, Kansas, and graduated from Hayden Catholic High School in 2019. Growing up in Topeka gave me a deep love for this community and the people who make it feel like home. From a young age, I knew I wanted a life centered around helping others, serving my community, and making people feel welcomed, heard, and cared for. I studied Marketing and Business Administration, Mortuary Science, and Music Education, all of which have helped shape both my career and my passion for serving families.
I began my career in funeral service in 2020 at Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home. I am inspired to get up and work every morning because this career not only challenges me, but also allows me to use what I believe are my greatest strengths and qualities and, above all, my desire to serve others during some of the most difficult moments of their lives. Every day, this profession encourages me to grow into the best version of myself and reminds me that even the smallest act of kindness or comfort can make a lasting difference in someone’s life. Whether helping a family make arrangements for a loved one, guiding someone through the preplanning process, or simply offering a listening ear and comforting presence, I strive to ensure every family we serve feels supported, valued, and treated like family. As someone who was raised locally, it is especially meaningful to serve the same community that helped shape who I am today.
Outside of the funeral home, I remain deeply involved in the Topeka community. I currently serve on the Astra Mental Health & Recovery Foundation Board, am the President of the Our Lady of Guadalupe Altar Society, a member of the Daughters of Isabella Little Flower Circle, and serve on the Greater Topeka Partnership Equity and Opportunity Committee and the Leadership Greater Topeka Advisory Board. I am also involved with MANA de Topeka, serve as a mentor with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Shawnee County, and am an active member of Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church. I previously served as a commissioner for the City of Topeka Human Relations Commission, a board member of Child Care Aware of Eastern Kansas, and Publicity Chair for Fiesta Topeka.
In 2024, I was incredibly honored to receive the YWCA Women of Excellence Awards, be recognized through the NextGen Under 30 Kansas Recognition Program, and receive Topeka’s 20 Under 40 Award. I am also a proud graduate of the Kansas Emerging Leaders program through the Kansas Chamber.
My husband Anthony and I are proud to call Topeka home as we continue building our life and growing our family here. It is an honor and blessing to serve Topeka and the surrounding communities with compassion, kindness, and dignity while continuing the legacy of personalized care that has been associated with Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home since 1916.
CURTIS FOLEY
Owner / Funeral Director / Embalmer
Curtis grew up in Bonner Springs, Kansas graduating from Bonner Springs High School in 2000. He attended Neosho County Community College on a golf scholarship, Kansas State University, and graduated from Kansas City Kansas Community College school of mortuary science in 2004.
He started his career in the funeral business at Rumsey-Yost Funeral Home in Lawrence, Kansas in 2003. After a few years in Lawrence, Curtis moved to Wellington, Kansas to work at Day Funeral Home.
When his youngest daughter was born in 2008, he moved back to Lawrence where he worked until 2022.
In 2022, he moved to Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home, where he’s had the privilege to assist the families of Topeka. Curtis and Paul Wasinger purchased the funeral home from Donna Mathena-Menke in July of 2023.
Curtis has two daughters, Halle Jackson and Addison Foley, of whom he is very proud of. Halle is an orthodontist assistant, and Addison attends high school and plays competitive softball.
He is a member of the Mayetta Lodge #393 A.F. & A.M., Arab Shrine of Topeka, Kansas Funeral Directors Association, and enjoys attending his daughter’s activities, playing golf, pool, being involved in the community, and supporting many organizations in Topeka.
CURTIS FOLEY
Owner / Funeral Director / Embalmer
Curtis grew up in Bonner Springs, Kansas graduating from Bonner Springs High School in 2000. He attended Neosho County Community College on a golf scholarship, Kansas State University, and graduated from Kansas City Kansas Community College school of mortuary science in 2004.
He started his career in the funeral business at Rumsey-Yost Funeral Home in Lawrence, Kansas in 2003. After a few years in Lawrence, Curtis moved to Wellington, Kansas to work at Day Funeral Home.
When his youngest daughter was born in 2008, he moved back to Lawrence where he worked until 2022.
In 2022, he moved to Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home, where he’s had the privilege to assist the families of Topeka. Curtis and Paul Wasinger purchased the funeral home from Donna Mathena-Menke in July of 2023.
Curtis has two daughters, Halle Jackson and Addison Foley, of whom he is very proud of. Halle is an orthodontist assistant, and Addison attends high school and plays competitive softball.
He is a member of the Mayetta Lodge #393 A.F. & A.M., Arab Shrine of Topeka, Kansas Funeral Directors Association, and enjoys attending his daughter’s activities, playing golf, pool, being involved in the community, and supporting many organizations in Topeka.
KEVIN HUNDERTFUND
Assistant Funeral Director / Director of Facilities
Kevin Hundertfund, with a humble beginning in the funeral business dating back to 1987, is a seasoned professional who brings a touch of authenticity to his work in funeral services and facilities management. A proud graduate of J.C. Harmon High School in 1984, Kevin's journey has been marked by unwavering dedication and commitment. Starting as a Facilities Technician, he steadily advanced to the positions of Assistant Funeral Director and Director of Facilities, gaining invaluable experience as an Assistant Director, ensuring seamless funeral services. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Kevin is a former member of the Argentine Mennonite Church.
KEVIN HUNDERTFUND
Assistant Funeral Director / Director of Facilities
Kevin Hundertfund, with a humble beginning in the funeral business dating back to 1987, is a seasoned professional who brings a touch of authenticity to his work in funeral services and facilities management. A proud graduate of J.C. Harmon High School in 1984, Kevin's journey has been marked by unwavering dedication and commitment. Starting as a Facilities Technician, he steadily advanced to the positions of Assistant Funeral Director and Director of Facilities, gaining invaluable experience as an Assistant Director, ensuring seamless funeral services. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Kevin is a former member of the Argentine Mennonite Church.
DONNA L. MATHENA-MENKE
Director / Embalmer
Donna L. Mathena-Menke is a dedicated professional with a heart for serving her community and a commitment to maintaining the highest standards of care. Her impressive career, spanning more than four decades, showcases her significant influence in the funeral service industry and beyond.
Donna's educational journey began when she graduated from Central Heights High School in 1977. After that, she embarked on a path of lifelong learning, obtaining her Bachelor of Arts degree in Elementary Education from Kansas Wesleyan in 1981. She has a strong dedication to education.
Donna decided to pursue a new calling in mortuary science, culminating in her degree from Kansas City Kansas Community College (KCKCC) in 2007. Donna developed a profound understanding of the art and science of embalming and funeral services, allowing her to provide comfort to families during their most challenging moments.
With her heart firmly planted in the community, Donna earned her Funeral Director license in 1982 and later her Embalmer license in 2007. These credentials are a reflection of her comprehensive expertise and her ability to offer solace and support to grieving families.
In her personal life, Donna is a dedicated member of St. Matthew Catholic Church in Topeka, where she finds strength in faith and community. Her active participation in various organizations, such as her presidency at the Kansas Funeral Directors Association (KFDA) in 2022 and her past role as Regent of the Daughters of Isabella Little Flower Circle #503, reveals her commitment to charitable work and leadership.
Her dedication to the field was recently acknowledged when she was named Kansas Funeral Director of the Year at the 2023 awards ceremony, a prestigious accolade that celebrates her unyielding commitment to excellence.
Donna's deep connection to her profession is further evident as she is the former owner of Brennan Mathena Funeral Home, a legacy that reflects her long-standing dedication to the industry.
Outside of her professional life, Donna has given her time and expertise as the Past President of the Board of Midland Hospice. Her involvement in hospice care reflects her genuine compassion for those facing life-limiting illnesses and her desire to enhance their quality of life.
Donna L. Mathena-Menke's inspiring journey, from educator to an esteemed figure in the funeral service industry, resonates with many. Her down-to-earth approach, deep-rooted community involvement, and her dedication to providing comfort to families in need make her a genuine and respected professional. To those who know her, Donna represents compassion, excellence, and an unwavering commitment to the well-being of her community.
DONNA L. MATHENA-MENKE
Director / Embalmer
Donna L. Mathena-Menke is a dedicated professional with a heart for serving her community and a commitment to maintaining the highest standards of care. Her impressive career, spanning more than four decades, showcases her significant influence in the funeral service industry and beyond.
Donna's educational journey began when she graduated from Central Heights High School in 1977. After that, she embarked on a path of lifelong learning, obtaining her Bachelor of Arts degree in Elementary Education from Kansas Wesleyan in 1981. She has a strong dedication to education.
Donna decided to pursue a new calling in mortuary science, culminating in her degree from Kansas City Kansas Community College (KCKCC) in 2007. Donna developed a profound understanding of the art and science of embalming and funeral services, allowing her to provide comfort to families during their most challenging moments.
With her heart firmly planted in the community, Donna earned her Funeral Director license in 1982 and later her Embalmer license in 2007. These credentials are a reflection of her comprehensive expertise and her ability to offer solace and support to grieving families.
In her personal life, Donna is a dedicated member of St. Matthew Catholic Church in Topeka, where she finds strength in faith and community. Her active participation in various organizations, such as her presidency at the Kansas Funeral Directors Association (KFDA) in 2022 and her past role as Regent of the Daughters of Isabella Little Flower Circle #503, reveals her commitment to charitable work and leadership.
Her dedication to the field was recently acknowledged when she was named Kansas Funeral Director of the Year at the 2023 awards ceremony, a prestigious accolade that celebrates her unyielding commitment to excellence.
Donna's deep connection to her profession is further evident as she is the former owner of Brennan Mathena Funeral Home, a legacy that reflects her long-standing dedication to the industry.
Outside of her professional life, Donna has given her time and expertise as the Past President of the Board of Midland Hospice. Her involvement in hospice care reflects her genuine compassion for those facing life-limiting illnesses and her desire to enhance their quality of life.
Donna L. Mathena-Menke's inspiring journey, from educator to an esteemed figure in the funeral service industry, resonates with many. Her down-to-earth approach, deep-rooted community involvement, and her dedication to providing comfort to families in need make her a genuine and respected professional. To those who know her, Donna represents compassion, excellence, and an unwavering commitment to the well-being of her community.
