William Thomas Kress

William Thomas Kress, 67, of Topeka passed away Dec. 30, 2012. He was born to Melvin C. and Myrtle L. (Cox) Kress on Oct. 28, 1945 at Wichita, Kansas. He has spent most of his life in Topeka. He graduated from Topeka High School in 1963 and married Sharon Cook on July 30, 1965.

William served in the US Army, Co B, 725th Maint. Bn., 25th Infantry Div. from Nov. 1966 through Nov. 1969. He was honorably discharged as a Specialist 5. He served in Vietnam from Jan. 1968 to Jan. 1969 where he received the Army Commendation Medal for Meritorious Service in the Republic of Vietnam with 4 Bronze Service Stars, the National Defense Service Medal, Mechanics Badge and Sharpshooter (Rifle).

William was a metal lather for approximately 5 years and then worked for 25 years as a commercial carpenter. He was a member of the Lather's Union and the Carpenters Union No. 1445. He worked for Bob Florence Contractors and Interior Contractors, both in Topeka and retired in 2001. He is also co-owner of 19th St. Salon & Spa along with his wife, Sharon. He remodeled the salon 3 times which can be read about at www.19thstsalonspa.com under "About Us".

William is survived by his wife, Sharon and his son, Matthew; one sister, Sherrol Heydenreich, and one brother, Richard Kress. He was preceded in death by his parents, and one brother, Ronald Kress.

A memorial visitation will be held on Sunday, January 6, 2013 from 2-4PM at Dove Cremation & Funeral Service, 4020 SW 6th Ave. Topeka. Memorial contributions may be made to Midland Hospice Care, 200 SW Frazier Cir. Topeka, KS 66606.