Herbert Leon Kelley

Herbert Leon “Herb” Kelley, 93, of Topeka, passed away Tuesday, April 15, 2025.

He was born January 26, 1932, in South Bend, Indiana, the son of Ancil Leon and Clara Josephine (Piety) Kelley. He was a 1950 graduate of John Adams High School in South Bend, Indiana and received his Liberal Arts Degree from Washburn University, Topeka, Kansas in 1973. He served in the United States Air Force from January 31, 1952 until begin honorably discharged on January 30, 1956.

Herb was employed by the State of Kansas as a Project Design Architect for 32 years until retiring.

He was a member of Central Church of Christ in Topeka, where he had served as a deacon. He was also a Boy Scout Leader for Troop #37 in Topeka.

Herb married Alberta M. Kreipe on March 18, 1955, in Topeka, Kansas. She preceded him in death on April 18, 2021. Survivors include his children, Bryan Kelley of Topeka, Kimberly Glidewell (John) of Topeka and Susan Zechel (Randy) of Berryton; his grandchildren Melissa (Bart) of Belgium, Joshua (Brandy) of Topeka, Daniel and his ex-wife, Katelyn of Topeka.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Pauline and his brother, LeRoy.

Herb loved his family and was a devoted Christian, serving as a Deacon and supported Tall Grass Christian Camp in Harveyville, KS. During his missionary work he made mission trips to various places including Honduras and other countries. He was also an avid photographer, KU and Kansas City Chiefs Fan.

Cremation is planned. A celebration of life ceremony will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, May 3, 2025 at Dove Cremations & Funerals, Southeast Chapel, 2843 SE Minnesota Ave, Topeka. Interment of his urn will be at Zion Cemetery, Tecumseh, Kansas.

Memorial contributions may be made to Tallgrass Christian Camp, sent in care of Central Church of Christ, 1250 SW College Ave, Topeka, KS 66604.

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