John W. Glidewell

John Ward Glidewell, 69, of Topeka, passed away unexpectedly Saturday, May 3, 2025.

He was born June 25, 1955, in Topeka, Kansas, the son of John D. Glidewell, Jr. and Janis Rae (McKemey). John was raised by his father and his step-mother, Patricia Glidewell. He was a 1973 graduate of Highland Park High School.

John was employed by Coca-Cola in Topeka and later for Arensdorf Trucking Inc. which merged with Paul Logistics of Tulsa, Oklahoma.

John married Kimberly Ann Kelley. She survives in Topeka. Other survivors include his son, Josh (Brandy) Glidewell of Topeka; his step-mother, Patricia Glidewell of Topeka; his siblings, James (Jill) Glidewell of Topeka, Jay (Jan) Glidewell of Meriden, KS, Julie Anne Glidewell of Dallas, TX, and Kim (Mike) Frederick of Hesperia, CA; several nieces, nephews and cousins; and his canine companion, Luna.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his brothers, Kirk Benton, Jeff Glidewell; a nephew, Justin Glidewell; his in-laws, Herbert and Alberta Kelley; maternal grandmother, Mildred Kraus; and paternal grandparents, John and Nellie Glidewell.

John, a man defined by his passions and an unwavering love for his family, departed from this world, leaving behind a legacy of cherished memories. His zest for life was vividly illustrated through his affinity for music and the freedom he experienced on the open road as an avid Harley Davidson motorcyclist.

A devoted supporter of his local teams, John was a loyal fan of the Kansas City Chiefs, the Royals, the K-State Wildcats, NHRA and NASCAR, embodying the spirit of enthusiasm and camaraderie that sports inspire. He found joy in the simple pleasures of life, relishing the warmth of good bourbon and the tranquility of a fine cigar.

John's remarkable ability to connect with people and his genuine kindness will be forever etched in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him. His presence will be profoundly missed, yet his memory will continue to inspire those he touched throughout his journey.

Honoring his request, cremation is planned. A Celebration of Life Ceremony gathering will begin at 2:00 p.m. and the family will receive friends until 4:00 p.m., Friday, May 30, 2025, at the Dove Cremations & Funerals, Southeast Chapel, 2843 SE Minnesota Ave, Topeka. Interment of his urn will be held at a later date at Mt. Hope Cemetery, Topeka, KS.

Memorial contributions may be made to Kimberly Glidewell, sent in care of CoreFirst Bank, 3035 SW Topeka Blvd, Topeka, KS 66611.

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