Rene Patrick Poort

Rene Patrick Poort, 77, of Topeka, passed away Sunday, November 21, 2021.

He was born April 22, 1944, in Gardner, Kansas, the son of Herbert and Mildred (Ingenthron) Poort. He was a 1962 graduate of Mayetta High School and received a Bachelor's Degree in Education and Physical Education from Washburn University in 1967.

Rene was a teacher and coach at Silver Lake High School and Hayden High School where he had a lasting impact on many young athletes he coached. After leaving the classroom, he owned and operated the Topeka Music Company in North Topeka where he became known to many as the Music Man. He downsized his business over the years, but kept several long-term accounts running. He enjoyed making his weekly rounds with his wife, visiting with old friends, and servicing his pool tables, jukeboxes, pinballs, and video games.

His true passion was officiating basketball and football at all levels from youth to collegiate. Many would recognize him on the court or the field by his distinct mullet. Rene was known to mentor many young officials in the Topeka area. He was an active member of the Kansas State High School Activities Association for a total of 53 years. He was also actively involved in the Topeka Officials Association where he served as President for several years.

Rene loved spending time with his family. In his early years, he played fastpitch softball and was currently playing in the Over 60 Slow Pitch Softball league. He loved to create and build. He constructed several houses, including his current home, and many projects for his family. His motto was measure twice, cut once. He enjoyed traveling and cruises, playing golf, working outdoors, garage and estate sales, thrift shopping, and never passed on a "good deal".

Rene married Carol Sue Fairbanks and to that union four children were born. They later divorced. He married Connie Ann Hill on June 6, 1992, in Topeka. From this union two children were born. His wife survives of the home. Other survivors include six children, Matthew Poort (Sandra) of Belton, MO, Heather Poort (Ken Pingleton) of Lawrence, KS, Mariah Lunson (David) of Topeka, Jarred "JT" Poort (Tasha) of Topeka, Hannah Turner (Andrew) of Topeka, and Hunter Poort of Topeka; nine grandchildren, Regan and Madison Neeley, Jarred II, Jordan, Joshua and Ellarie Poort, Karson, John and Katherine Turner; his brother, Mark Poort of Hoyt, KS; his sister-in-law, Deon Poort of Las Vegas, NV; his brother-in-law, Russell Hill (Colleen) of Round Rock, TX; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, DeAun Weber; and his brother, Herbert Poort.

Honoring his request, cremation is planned. A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Monday, December 6, 2021 at the Fairlawn Church of the Nazarene, 730 SW Fairlawn Rd, Topeka, KS 66606. Penwell-Gabel Cremations, Funerals & Receptions in Topeka is assisting the family.

Memorial contributions may be made to Sunrise Optimist Club of North Topeka, to support the many youth athletes, P.O. Box 8816, Topeka, KS 66608.

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