Neil E. Cares

Neil E. Cares, 60, of Topeka, passed away peacefully with his family at his side Thursday, October 6, 2016

He was born November 20, 1955 in Parsons, KS, the son of Jerry and Martha Cares.

Neil was a 1973 graduate of Lyndon High School where he played football and was known as the "Compact Kid". After high school he went to work for Frito Lay, Inc., retiring after many years of service. While working for Frito Lay he also owned and operated the Spot Tavern and the Getaway Inn. During his time at Frito Lay, Neil served as Chief Union Steward for many years, helping to negotiate collective bargaining agreements for the betterment of his co-workers.

Neil had a love of riding motorcycles, especially Harley-Davidson. He was most happy sharing good times and stories with friends at the two bars he owned. But above all, his family was the most important part of his life.

He married Terry Partain in 1981. They later divorced but remained very close.

Survivors include two daughters, Lindsay Cares (Josh) and Kelli Cares (Poly), both of Topeka; a son, Jerry Cares of Topeka, his mother, Martha Cares of Lawrence, 9 grandchildren, Melvyn, Mario, Penelope, Araceli, Jocelyn, Jayden, Apolinar, Jesus and Jaelyn and two sisters, Teresa Carnagie of Eudora and Tammy Hart of Lawrence and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his father.

Neil will lie in state after 2:00 p.m., Monday, October 10, 2016 at Penwell-Gabel Southeast Chapel, 2843 SE. Minnesota, Topeka, KS 66605, where the family will receive friends from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. that evening. A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, October 11 at the funeral home with burial to follow in Prairie Home Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to NE Kansas Parkinson Association, PO Box 67342, Topeka, KS 66667-0342.

To share a special memory with Neil's family, please click the "Share Memory" button above.