Daniel Ray Donaldson

Rev. Daniel R. Donaldson, 77, of Topeka Kansas, was called home on May 28th, 2024.

He was born on June 17th, 1946, preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Elaine (Walters) Donaldson, and his niece Jane Donaldson. Dan is survived by his loving wife of 56 years; Cheryl (Chearie) (Wanke) Donaldson, younger brother; Keary Donaldson (Peggy Harper), younger sister; Tracie Forkner, son; Schaan Donaldson (Jenifer Gideon), daughter; Heather (Lee Scherer), two nephews, five grandchildren; Luke McCarvel, Bruklyn Donaldson, Kyra Scherer, Melina Scherer, and Jaq Donaldson, and one great-granddaughter; Aurora McCarvel.

On October 21st, 1967, Dan married Chearie and the two would spend most of their lives in Topeka. Dan served 27 years in the United States Navy, active and reserve. Dan & Chearie owned Donaldson’s Jewelers where he was a Certified Gemologist and Appraiser. Dan was later ordained as a Nazarene minister, and the couple owned Christian Care at Home. Dan enjoyed hunting, playing golf, and watching sports. Dan also enjoyed playing card games like Gin Rummy and Texas Hold-em.

Dan was active in Topeka organizations. He was a 35-year member of Optimists, Past President of Topeka Optimist and Metro Optimist. Dan was also Past President of Parents of Hearing-Impaired Children, Past Master of the Orient Masonic Lodge 51, 32nd degree of the Masonic Scottish Rite Shrine, and member of The American Legion.

After retirement Dan enjoyed traveling the country in an RV, preaching on the road, and walking on beaches. He also enjoyed attending Topeka churches including Wanamaker Woods, Stillwater, and Living Truth. In his travels across the United States, Dan attended churches such as Pathway in Foley AL, and 1st Nazarene in Ocala FL.

Dan’s sudden passing was due to an underlying heart condition. He will be greatly missed by his wife, family, and friends. Dan was always looking for the best in the people around him, and he had a big heart for people and for Jesus.

Visitation will be held Thursday, June 6, 2024, 5:00 pm at Penwell-Gabel Cremations, Funerals & Receptions, Topeka, Kansas.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, June 7, 2024, 1:00 pm at the Living Truth Christian Church, 920 SW Huntoon, Topeka, Kansas 66604, with Dr. L. D. Holmes, officiating.

Interment will take place immediately following service at Memorial Park Cemetery.

Memorials are suggested to the Shriners Children's Hospital and Living Truth Christian Church.

To share a memory of Daniel or leave a special message for his family, please visit the guestbook below.