Chester C. Benedict

Chester C. Benedict, 89, of Topeka, died Wednesday, August 4, 2004 at Midland Hospice House in Topeka. He was born on January 14, 1915 in Topeka, the son of Calvin D. and Lela N. Hall Benedict. He grew up in Topeka and joined the National Guard Calvary in the 1930's. He was employed by the Santa Fe Shops as a coach carpenter for 30 years before retiring on January 14, 1975. He was a member of the First Christian Church. He married Vera B. Wolfley on August 30, 1940. She preceded him in death in 1986. He married Margaret E. Miller on March 14, 1996. She survives. Other survivors include one son, Edward N. Wolfley of Phoenix, AZ., two daughters, Patty L. Bevan of Buena Park, CA. and Jacqueline Wilemon of Lakeland, FL., nine grandchildren and nineteen great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by two brothers, William and Pete Benedict. A graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Friday on the Garden Chapel at Topeka Cemetery. Burial will follow. Mr. Benedict will lie in state after 3:00 p.m. Thursday at Penwell-Gabel Mid Town Chapel. Memorial contributions may be given to the Arthritis Foundation, 1602 E. Waterman, Wichita, KS. 67211 or to Midland Hospice Care, 200 S.W. Frazier Circle, Topeka, KS. 66606 or to the First Christian Church, 1880 S.W. Gage Blvd., Topeka, KS., 66604.