Louise Egger Hoffmaster Gleason

Louise Gleason, originally Louise Egger, was born on September 8, 1934 in Oregon, Missouri the daughter of Fred and Lydia Egger. She passed away on February 4, 2025, after a brief battle with pneumonia. After graduating from Oregon High School, she went to Park University where she received a degree in home economics and English. In 1957 she married Roger Hoffmaster. He preceded her in death in 1987. In 2002 she married Dr. Jimmie Gleason. He passed away in 2023.

 She taught home economics and English in Topeka. In 1990 she earned a master's degree from Washburn University in special education. She then became vocational coordinator for special needs students at Seaman High School.

Louise was a member of Westminster Presbyterian Church where she was an elder, a deacon and a circle leader. She belonged to P.E.O., Chapter Fl, and served as their president. She was active in Every Women's Resource Center being on their board and becoming their president. She helped establish and volunteered for their annual Designers' Showhouse. She was also in two book clubs, a discussion group and an investment club. She enjoyed playing bridge.

Besides reading, Louise liked sewing, knitting and other handcrafts. While in high school she was named outstanding 4-H member for the county. She made clothing for herself, her daughters and granddaughters. She taught sewing classes throughout Topeka.

Louise liked watching Kansas University and Kansas State University basketball and football. She was excited when the Chiefs won the Super Bowl.

Louise has two daughters, Lisa (James) Ruder in San Diego, California, and Katherine (Douglas) Henry in Sydney, Australia, as well as two stepsons, Dr. Jeffery Gleason in Nashville, Tennessee and Dr. Douglas Gleason (Angie) in Topeka. She has 10 grandchildren, Allison (Stephen) Gordon, Michael Ruder, Isabella Henry, McCalla Henry, Braedon Henry, Mary Katherine (Nick) Seago, John Gleason, Laura Gleason, Emily Gleason and Sarah Gleason. She also has 2 great granddaughters, Halle and Nora Gordon. She is survived by a sister, Nadine Killmer, in Nevada, Missouri. Her brother, Henry preceded her in death. He is survived by his wife, Dollie Egger in Ft. Collins, Colorado.

 A ‘Celebration of Life’ will be held at Westminster Presbyterian Church on March 3 at 11:00 am. Memorial contributions may be made to Westminster Church, 1275 SW Boswell Avenue, Topeka, KS 66604.