David L. Ollenberger

David L. Ollenberger, 63, of Topeka passed away Tuesday, August 31, 2010.

He was born April 19, 1947 to Ervin and Helen Ollenberger of El Dorado, KS. David attended El Dorado schools and graduated in the class of 1966. He then attended Emporia State University, earning a Business degree in 1970. David owned/operated the Dr. Pepper franchise for the El Dorado and surrounding communities, until becoming a State Highway Patrolman in 1973, stationed in Ellsworth, KS.

In 1973, he married Helen Young. They later divorced in 2001. David relocated to Herington, KS in 1979 and became actively involved in his community, serving as a member of the Lions Club, for the City Commission for 12 consecutive years from 1985-1997, and serving as Mayor of the City in 1987, 1990, and 1996.

While serving on the Highway Patrol he served in many capacities. He specialized in the Motor Carrier Division, Hazardous Materials, Hostage Negotiations, and reached the highest level of Master Trooper. He retired from the State Highway Patrol after 26 years and worked for a short time as the Manager of the Herington Municipal Airport, before accepting a position as a Special Investigator II for the Kansas Corporation Commission from 1999-2010.

David married Marva Cowger-Leach, formerly of Herington, KS, on June 6, 2003. Together they lived and worked in Topeka.

David is survived by his wife, Marva; Son, Jay Ollenberger of Madison, Daughter, Liz Drennan of Republic, MO, Daughter, Wendy Parmenter of Emporia, and Son, Ben Ollenberger of Salina; Brother, Ralph Ollenberger of Godfrey, IL; 20 Grandchildren and 6 Great Grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, Jimmy and Gary.

David was a gentle and dedicated man who was loved and respected by those who knew him. He lead a purposeful life and was a wonderful Husband, Father, Grandfather and Brother.

Funeral services will be 1 p.m., Tuesday, September 7, 2010 at Penwell-Gabel Southwest Chapel, 3700 SW Wanamaker Rd, Topeka. Interment will follow at Penwell-Gabel Cemetery, Topeka. Mr. Ollenberger will lie in state after 3 p.m., Monday at the funeral home where the family will receive friends from 7-8 p.m. Memorial contributions may be a made to the charity of the donor's choice.