Charles " Chuck" Vernon Needham III

Charles “Chuck” Vernon Needham III, 84, of Topeka, passed away Tuesday, February 25, 2025.

He was born October 14, 1940, in Kansas City, Missouri, the son of Charles and Geraldine (Pfeifer) Needham. He attended and graduated from Raytown High School. He proudly joined the United States Navy and served his country from 1958-1961. Chuck received electronics training that allowed him to work as an Electronic Technician and he worked on the radios for the Naval Sea Planes. After being honorably discharged from the military, he used his education to work for many electronic companies in the Kansas City area as an Electronics Engineer. 

He proudly owned his own farm located near the town of Richmond, MO in Ray County. Chuck pridefully took care of the land and cared for all of his animals. He had a knack for travel and ventured all over the United States. His husky, Denali, was adopted while traveling through Alaska and became his best friend. He loved to camp in the outdoors and had his own camper. 

Chuck leaves behind his children, Theresa (Johnny) Green, Marcus (Kimberly) Needham, Michael (Christina) Needham, Matthew Needham, Debra (Roger) Sutherland and Heather (Jason) Moss; his sisters, Elizabeth (Jim) Haight and Patricia Needham; his beloved 16 grandchildren and 21 great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Jennifer Needham; brother, Terrance Needham and his parents. 

Honoring his wishes, cremation will take place. 

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