John R. Monreal Sr.

John Rosendo Monreal Sr., 73, of Topeka, passed away on Thursday, December 16th. John was born to John and Refugia Monreal, on November 23rd, 1948, in Topeka, Kansas. At age 17, John enlisted in the United States Navy, first attending the Naval Training Center & Recruit Training Command in San Diego, California. At 17 years of age, John took post with Military Police, stationed in the Philippines. From there, he would see resolute service throughout Vietnam. Alongside serving on the U.S.S. Bulloch County (LST509), he would serve in the Brown Water Navy. Service in Vietnam yielded The National Defense Service Medal & The Vietnam Campaign Medal (SE). An honorable discharge was awarded to John on February 14th, 1972.

John is remembered for being an avid reader, enjoying reading about true crime & non-fiction. Alongside being a prolific reader, he loved watching military shows, documentaries, and wrestling. Family was very important to John, he loved his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Fond memories include going to get doughnuts on Sundays and running them around in the car.

Survived by John is his wife, Mary (Coffman). With Mary is five sons; John Monreal Jr., Kevin R. Monreal, Gary L. Gucciano, Eric Stewart, Marc Stewart, and one daughter; Connie Muniz. Alongside his wife and children, he leaves behind his brothers; Michael Monreal Sr., K.W.C. Roberson, Melvin Nolting, as well as his sisters Julie Nolting and Annette Winn. Also surviving John are 10 Grandchildren, 6 Great-Grandchildren, as well as a host of nieces and nephews, and a dog, Carter Monreal-Anderson.
Preceded in death are his parents; John Chavez Monreal & Refugia (Rodriguez-Araiza) Nolting. Also preceded in death is his daughter Jona Monreal and sisters, Jollene Monreal & Jollene Akins.

The family will receive guests for a visitation on Wednesday, December 22nd, from 10:00 – 11:00 A.M, at Penwell-Gabel Midtown, 1321 SW 10th Avenue, Topeka. A committal service will follow with Military Honors at Mount Calvary Cemetery, 801 SW Westchester Road, Topeka, commencing at 11:30 A.M.