Gary Dee Brinkman, 61, of Athens, Alabama, formerly of Topeka, passed away Saturday, July 24, 2010.
He was born April 14, 1949 in Topeka, the son of Emery Louis and Jessie B. (Frederick) Brinkman. He was a graduate of Washburn Rural High School. He served in the U.S. Navy during Vietnam having served on the USS Kitty Hawk.
Gary traveled extensively throughout his life.
Gary married Debbie Bervert in Topeka. They were divorced. Survivors include his son, Eric W. Brinkman, Lenexa, KS; his mother, Jessie Brinkman-Webb of Topeka; two sisters, Linda K. Willis, Verden, OK and Cherie A. Carter, Topeka, KS; two brothers, Ronald L. Brinkman, Phoenix, AZ and Dennis J. Brinkman, Carbondale, KS.
Graveside ceremonies with military honors will be 10 a.m., Friday, July 30, 2010 at West Lawn Memorial Gardens, Topeka. The casket will be closed. Penwell-Gabel Mid-Town Chapel, 1321 SW 10th Ave., Topeka is assisting the family. Memorial contributions may be made to Wooley Springs Baptist Church, 28025 Bethel Road, Toney, AL 35773-8309.