Viola Beach Layman

Viola Beach Layman, 90, Topeka, died Monday, June 18, 2007 at her home. She was born on October 31, 1916 in Auburn, the daughter of Alfred and Rosie Kovar Koci. She graduated from Auburn High School in 1934. She was an avid Royals and KU basketball fan. Viola married Ivan Beach on June 1, 1940 in Topeka. He preceded her in death on December 4, 1962. Viola married Russell Layman on June 17, 1969. He preceded her in death on November 6, 1982. She was also preceded in death by her brothers, Richard, Irvin and Clyde Koci and one sister, Gladys Smith. Survivors include one son, Galen Beach of Leslie, MO, one daughter, Debra Beach of Topeka, three grandsons, Shawn, Patrick and Steven Beach, one great-grandson, Conrad Beach and one sister, Nina Wehner of Eudora. Graveside services will be held at Noon Friday at Penwell-Gabel Cemetery. Viola will lie in state after 11:00 a.m. Thursday at Newcomer Family Funeral Home where the family will receive friends from 2:00 - 4:00 p.m. Thursday afternoon. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Topeka Rescue Mission, 600 N. Kansas Ave. 66608.