Don Demoss

Don DeMoss, 86, of Newton, passed away Sunday (May 16, 2010) at Newton Presbyterian Manor. Hugh Donald "Don" DeMoss was born on Feb. 22, 1924, in Wichita to Clarence H. and Neva V. DeMoss. He grew up in Augusta.

He married Peggy Werth on Dec. 1, 1943, while on leave from the Army.
During World War II, Don served in the South Pacific, traveling with Gen. MacArthur's headquarters before being discharged in 1946. He started his 38-year career with the Santa Fe Railroad in Chanute, later moving to Topeka, Newton and Emporia, where he retired in 1984 as assistant to the superintendent. In Emporia, Don served on the United Way board, and as board chairman of Santa Fe Credit Union, was active in Kiwanis and United Methodist Men, and chairman of the Sojadi District, Jayhawk Area Council Boy Scouts. In retirement, Don and Peggy traveled extensively and lived in Gold Canyon, Ariz., before moving to Aldersgate Village in Topeka in 1996. They moved to Newton Presbyterian Manor in 2005. He was a member of Trinity Heights United Methodist Church. Don was known and loved for his genuine respect and care for others, his great sense of humor, his dedication to family and his faith in God.

Don is survived by his wife of 66 years, Peggy; sons, David and wife Sally of Girard, and Alan and wife Bonnie of Newton; five grandchildren, Matt DeMoss of Frontenac, Erin (Tim) Dolgner of Crestview, Fla., Kelli (Jay) Unruh of Lenexa, Katie (Paul) Pitts of Bronough, Mo., and Amanda DeMoss of Wichita; and three great-grandchildren, Owen and Kate Unruh, and Caden Dolgner.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Dale and Darrell; and his sister, Beatrice Stanley.

A memorial service will be at 1:30 p.m. on Thursday at Highland Park United Methodist Church in Topeka. Memorials may be sent to the Good Samaritan Fund for Newton Presbyterian Manor, 1100 E. Seventh, Newton, KS 67114.