William Dean Groth

William Dean (Bill) Groth died on Oct. 3, 2014. Bill was born in Wichita, Kansas but spent his childhood and youth in Salina, Kansas. His parents were John and Winifred (Proffitt) Groth.

Bill knew at an early age that he wanted to be an architect and worked part time during high school at an architectural firm. Bill graduated from Kansas State University with a B.S. degree in Architecture. His first job was in Topeka with Williamson-Loebsack Architects and while there helped in the design of many schools. He joined George Eicholtz in his architectural firm and became a partner. The firm was renamed Eicholtz and Groth Architects. The firm designed or was involved in the design of many buildings in Topeka and other parts of Kansas such as Topeka Savings Assoc., Thacher Building, Chase Middle School, Federal Office Building, and additions to Washburn University Morgan Hall. He was Capitol Complex Architect from 1986 – 1998 and Statehouse Architect from 1998 – 2001. Bill was instrumental in designing the restoration and renovation of the Kansas State Capitol Building in Topeka, now considered one of the most beautiful capitol buildings in the country.

Bill enjoyed his family, tennis, the Sherwood couples group and his many friends.

Bill married Marcia Scott in Topeka in 1962 at Potwin Presbyterian Church. They joined Trinity Presbyterian Church and have been active members for 50 years. Their children are Scott Groth (Lisa), Shawnee, KS, Stephan Groth (Jennifer), Coos Bay, OR and Jeanne Winter (James), Topeka, KS. Grandchildren are Cameron Winter, Amanda Winter, Maylee Winter and Isabel Groth.

Memorial services will be held at Trinity Presbyterian Church on Tuesday, Oct 7, at 11am. Private family inurnment will be at a later date.

Donations may be made to Trinity Presbyterian Church or Boys and Girls Club of Topeka.

Penwell-Gabel Southwest Chapel is assisting with arrangements. To leave a special message for the family, please visit the guestbook below.