Charles L. Clinkenbeard

Charles Lloyd Clinkenbeard, 95, Lawrence, Kansas, formerly of Topeka, passed away at Lawrence Memorial Hospital on April 28, 2017. Charles was born November 25, 1921 in Easton, KS, the son of Robert & Leah (Edmond) Clinkenbeard. He moved with his family to Topeka when he was in junior high school. He graduated Topeka High School in 1939 and the University of Kansas in 1943. He served in the U.S. Navy during WWll. He was honorably discharged in February, 1946 with the rank of LT JJ.

He married Harriet Maree Neill on September 23, 1943 shortly after joining the Navy. To this union two sons were born, Craig & Kirk. Harriet preceded him in death on February 29, 1988. He later married Ann Smith on July 26, 1997. He was preceded in death by his son Craig Clinkenbeard, his parents, his brothers: Harold & Everett Clinkenbeard and a sister Wanda Figgs.

His first job as a CPA was in Topeka, Kansas with the accounting firm of Brelsford, Gifford & Hardesty. Although it changed names through the years, it was the only firm he worked for during his lifetime as a CPA. He starting with a salary of sixty cents an hour, which he said he lived on quite nicely. The firm later became Hardesty, Batz & Clinkenbeard, of which he was a founding member. He retired in 1987.

Charles was a man of commitment to his community, donating his time and service to many organizations. He served as president of Stormont Vail Foundation, Topeka Metropolitan Transit Authority, Greater Topeka Chamber of Commerce, Topeka Public School Foundation, Kansas Society of CPA's, TARC, Cosmopolitan Club, & Topeka Country Club. As a community leader he served on the board of various organizations including Kansas State Chamber of Commerce, Christ Hospital, Topeka Public Building Commission, Stormont Vail Advisory Board, Kansas State Board of Accountancy, and Greater Topeka Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors. He served on the TARC board for over 20 years, the TMTA for 25 years & United Way Budget Committee 20 years. He was a founding member of the Topeka Public Golf Course and helped incorporate the Combat Air Museum. He was a member of Topeka Orient Lodge No. 51, Arab Shriners, and Western Hills Church. Not surprising Charles received numerous awards for his service to the community.

He was a stanch Republican, serving as treasurer for several state & national candidates including Senator Robert Dole's campaign.

He was a Jayhawk through and through, having football and basketball tickets until over the age of 90.

He is survived by his wife, Ann, of the home. Other survivors include a son, Kirk (Lisa) of Springfield, VA. Two step children: Elizabeth (David) Scheib of Lawrence, KS and Richard (Carol) Smith of Overland Park, KS. He is also survived by five granddaughters who were the joy of his life, Sarah (David) Smith, Hilary (Emmanuel) Abban, Jayne Clinkenbeard, twins Francesca & Louisa Clinkenbeard, and great granddaughter Grace Elle Smith, as well as five step grandsons: Hunter Scheib, Harrison Scheib, Parker Smith, Preston Smith, Patrick Smith & one step granddaughter Paige Smith.

Memorial services will be held at 11:00am on Saturday, May 6 at Mount Hope Cemetery & Funeral Chapel, with a reception following. Interment will be private.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to TARC, 2701 Randolph, 66614, or Western Hills Church, 2900 SW Auburn Rd. 66614. Penwell-Gabel Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Penwell-Gabel Mid-Town Chapel is in charge of arrangements.

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