Gerald E. Eastman

Gerald E. "Jerry" Eastman, 74, of Topeka, passed away on Wednesday, June 8, 2016 at Midland Hospice House in Topeka. He was born June 17, 1941 in Topeka, the son of William E. and Florence H. Eastman.

Jerry graduated from Topeka High School in 1959. He attended Washburn University, the University of Maryland, Mohegan Community College and the University of New Hampshire. He earned an Associate Degree in Liberal Arts, a BA in Production Management and a BS in Business Technologies.

Jerry served in the U.S. Navy for 23 ½ years where he earned the rank of Senior Chief Petty Officer before retiring in 1984.

Jerry resided in Millington, TN for three years and Lisbon Falls, ME for 20 years. After returning to Topeka in 1987, he owned and operated Eastman Rentals for 20 years. He was a member of Central Congregational Church and served in Boy Scout committee work for 10 years.

Jerry married Karen E. Stroud on August 8, 1964 in Topeka. She survives. Other survivors include their children, Brian E. Eastman of Topeka, Holly E. (Todd) Eastman-Brantley of Topeka, one granddaughter, Alexis Brantley, his brother, Roger M. (Diane) Eastman of Coshocton, Ohio, his sister, Joyce Byrd of Auburn, KS and many nieces and nephews.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Diane Mapes.

Services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, June 15, 2016 at Penwell-Gabel Mid Town Chapel. Burial will follow in Mount Hope Cemetery. Jerry will lie in state and the family will receive friends from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. Tuesday, June 14, 2016 at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to the Helping Hands Humane Society, 5720 SW 21st St., Topeka, KS 66604 or to the Eastern Kansas VA Medical Center, Attn: Volunteer Services, 2200 SW Gage Blvd., Topeka, KS 66622.

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