Michael Lee Worswick

Michael Lee Worswick, age 75, of Topeka, passed away on August 10, 2021. Mike received an ALS diagnosis in December of 2020 and despite having a terminal disease, he continued to focus on the promises of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. His faith carried him through to the end of a journey that some without faith may find very discouraging.

Mike was born on May 11, 1946 to Harold & Elizabeth Worswick in Topeka. After graduating from Topeka High School in 1964, he went on to obtain a B.B.A. in Accounting from Washburn University. After graduation, Mike worked throughout the Midwest in sales and management for Ayr-Way and Ponder & Best. In the early 1970's, Mike returned to Topeka to join his father, Harold, in business at Wolfe's Camera where he remained CEO until the store's closing in July 2021. Mike and Harold were lifelong advocates for Downtown Topeka's success. Beyond encouraging the love of photography in Kansas, Mike became a worldwide industry influencer, serving as the International President of the Photo Marketing Association in 1994 and the President of the Photographic Research Organization (PRO) from 1996 to 2021.

In 1981, Mike met and married the love of his life, Debbie Worswick. They raised two children, Doug and Michelle.

Mike served as an officer and director of a number of Kansas and Topeka charities and organizations. He was a passionate Youth Sunday School teacher for 40 years and served multiple terms as moderator of First Baptist Church and later, on committees and boards at Countryside United Methodist. When not working or volunteering, Mike could be found walking the Shunga Trail while reading a book or enjoying music of almost any kind.

He is survived by his wife, Debbie; their children Doug of Topeka and Michelle (Scott) Dicus of Overland Park; and three grandchildren, Effy, Hans, and Kit. Mike was predeceased by his parents, Harold and Elizabeth Worswick; and his sister, Karen Harkness.

A funeral service will be held on Monday, August 16th at 1:00 PM at Dove Cremations and Funerals – Southwest Chapel, 3700 SW Wanamaker Road in Topeka. Interment will follow immediately after the service at Memorial Park Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM on Sunday, August 15th at Dove Cremations and Funerals – Southwest Chapel. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Topeka Rescue Mission, PO Box 8350, Topeka, KS 66608-0350.

Dove Cremations and Funerals - Southwest Chapel is assisting the family.

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