Robert Schlagel

Robert Thomas Schlagel, 54, of Topeka, passed away Saturday, December 2, 2006 at his home after an extended illness.

Robert was born February 6, 1952 to Robert and Marie Schlagel of Olathe, Kan.

He graduated from Olathe High School, Marymount College of Salina with a BSN, Wichita Physicians School of Anesthesia with his CRNA, and Newman University with a Masters in Social Work. Robert's professional life was spent as a nurse anesthetist in Topeka and Wichita, then as a LMSW in Wichita.

On March 26, 1983, Robert married his loving wife Debra (Wirzfeld). Together they had a beautiful and loving family with two children, Samantha and William.

Robert was preceded in death by his father and mother, Robert and Marie Schlagel, and mother-in-law, Virginia Wirzfeld. Survivors include his wife and best friend Debra, daughter Samantha, son William, brothers Bill of Olathe and Andy and wife Meri of Overland Park, father-in-law Ramon Wirzfeld, sister and brother-in-laws Diana and Jeff Cross and Denise and Del Bahner, all of Overbrook, Kan., and nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

He loved to be in the company of family and was active throughout life. Robert also loved his work and the many friends he met along the way. He will always be remembered as a loving husband, father and friend by everyone who knew him.

Robert will lie in state after 1:00 pm, Friday, December 8 at Penwell-Gabel Mid Town Chapel. A rosary will be recited beginning at 6:00 pm that evening with a visitation to follow until 8:00 pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 am, Saturday, December 9 at Christ the King Catholic Church with burial to follow in the Overbrook Cemetery in Overbrook, Kan.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Elizabeth Medical Center, Burn Unit, 555 S. 70th St., Lincoln, NE 68510.

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