John Erdman

John Roland Erdman passed away peacefully on May 24, 2006 in Kenosha, WI from complications of brain surgery in the preceding year.

Born on October 7, 1929, he was the oldest son of John and Marjorie(Haselwood) Erdman. He was brought up in Topeka with a sister, Marilyn and a brother, Bill.

After high school graduation, he enlisted in the Navy. He served honorably for four years during the Korean War. During his tour of duty, he was trained and served as a medical technologist. This led him to a forty-six year long career in government. He worked at NASA-Langley, Virginia for several years assisting with the Apollo missions. The rest of his career was spent working in VA hospitals. His most recent tenure was at the VA Hospital- Washington D.C., serving the nation's veterans. He retired from the VA in 1998 at the age of 69. He kept busy with his love of carpentry and visiting his family across the country. He was visiting children and grandchildren in Kenosha, Wisconsin in 2005 when he became ill.

He is survived by his four children, John Erdman III (Elizabeth Hoyt) of Kenosha, WI, Mark Erdman (Brenda) of Smithfield, VA, Brian Erdman (Jan) of Omaha, NE, and Diana Foss of Kenosha, WI. He is further survived by grandchildren Julia Erdman, Jessica Foss, Michaela Foss, Terrah Erdman, Aric Erdman and Miah Erdman. Also surviving are his former wife, Joy Garrett of Newport News, VA, his brother Bill Erdman of Ft. Lauderdale, Fl, aunt Vivian Queener of Auburn, CA and many other uncles, aunts, nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents and sister Marilyn. His family is bringing him back to Topeka to be laid to rest beside his mother. His memorial service will be held at 9:00 am, Saturday, June 3 at Penwell-Gabel Mid Town Chapel with private family inurnment to follow in Mt. Hope Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of the donor's choice.

To leave a special message for the family online, please visit www.PenwellGabel.com.