Kenneth R. Mendoza

Kenneth "Kenny" Ray Mendoza, age 62, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, March 8, 2022 at his home in Topeka, Kansas. Kenny had fought a long, hard battle with Liver Cancer and was awaiting a transplant. The cancer spread to his lung making him no longer eligible to receive the liver transplant.

Ken graduated from Highland Park High School in 1978 and attended Washburn University.

He loved spending time with his grandchildren and family. Ken had a passion for fast pitch softball and was very talented. He played for many years and was inducted into the Newton Mexican American Athletic Club Hall of Fame in July 2019. He also enjoyed coaching, playing cards, going to casinos, and cooking, especially recipes that he saw on TV or found online.

He was a member of the Knights of Columbus 11777.

Ken married Lisa Zuniga on September 21, 1985 in Topeka, Kansas. She survives. Other survivors include his children, Marcus (Nicole), Mason, and Mallorie Mendoza; his siblings, Garrett (Sarah) Cawthon of Louisville, Ky, Rosie Mendoza, and Arlene Davin; three beloved grandchildren, Macklin, Mayleee and Mylez; sister in-laws, brother in-laws, godchildren and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. Ken is preceded in death by his parents, Arthur Mendoza, Martha Mendoza Cawthon, and Stepfather Gary Cawthon.

The family will greet relatives and friends on Friday, March 18, 2022 from 2:00pm -8:00pm at St. Matthews Catholic Church, 2700 SE Virginia Ave, Topeka, KS 66605. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00am on Saturday, March 19, 2022 at St. Matthews Catholic Church. Inurnment will take place at a later date at Memorial Park Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Topeka LULAC Council 11071, 1502 SE Seward Avenue, Topeka, KS 66616.

"Heroes are born but Legends never die."

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