Lanny Neal McMahan

Lanny Neal McMahan, a lifelong resident of Topeka, passed away peacefully at the age of 78 on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, after a long and courageous battle with Parkinson’s disease. His life was defined by quiet strength, deep love, and an unwavering devotion to his family, who meant everything to him.

Lanny was born on May 31, 1947, in Topeka, Kansas, the son of Norman and Elva (Schrader) McMahan. He graduated from Shawnee Heights High School in 1965 and later attended Emporia State University, where he studied business. From an early age, Lanny carried with him a strong work ethic and a steady presence that would become hallmarks of his life.

Lanny took pride in his career and the relationships he built along the way. He spent many years in management at K-Mart, where he was respected for his leadership and sincerity, forming friendships that lasted well beyond the workplace. He later accepted a position with the State of Kansas Department of Revenue, where he served with dedication until his retirement in 2006.

More than anything, Lanny was a devoted family man. He married Janelle Jones in 1971, and together they welcomed three daughters, who were the greatest joy of his life. Being their father was a role he cherished deeply—one marked by love, encouragement, and steadfast support. In 1999, Lanny found love again when he married Julie Green. As a husband, he was loyal, caring, and deeply devoted, sharing a partnership rooted in companionship, laughter, and unwavering commitment. Julie remained his constant source of strength and comfort, especially through the challenges of illness.

Lanny’s love only grew as his family expanded. He was a proud and devoted grandfather who rarely missed an opportunity to watch his grandchildren compete, perform, or simply be themselves. Whether on the sidelines of a game or gathered together at home, his greatest happiness came from being present for them and celebrating their accomplishments—big and small. His calm presence, warm smile, and quiet pride will live on in their hearts forever.

A true fighter, Lanny was a founding member of the Rock Steady Boxing Club of Topeka, an organization dedicated to helping those with Parkinson’s disease fight back against the illness. He spent many afternoons training alongside his boxing friends and his son-in-law, Adam Schroeder, pushing himself with determination and grit. These moments reflected his resilience and his refusal to let Parkinson’s define him.

Lanny is survived by his loving wife, Julie; his daughters Whitney (Kyle) Baker, Ashley Streeter, and Ali (Adam) Schroeder; and his cherished grandchildren: Charlotte, Brighton, Boston & Ace, Lawson & Hadley, and Beckham, Baylor, Boomer & Bruin. He is also survived by his beloved Cockapoo, Rosie, who was a constant and comforting companion.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his infant sister, Norma McMahan; and his brother and sister-in-law, Lee and Ane McMahan.

Lanny’s passions reflected his competitive spirit and zest for life. He was an exceptional poker player, a formidable pitch competitor, a diehard Chiefs fan, a loyal Royals supporter, an avid fisherman, a passionate golfer, and—at one time—a fierce racquetball player. Yet even these joys took a back seat to what mattered most: time spent with family.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, December 22, 2025, at Dove Southwest Chapel, 3700 SW Wanamaker Rd., Topeka, Kansas 66610. In honor of Lanny, the family invites guests to wear Chiefs gear or the color red as a reflection of his spirit and love for the game. Please join the family following the service for light refreshments. Inurnment will take place privately at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made to Rock Steady Boxing Topeka. Checks can be made out to: Rock Steady Boxing - Topeka, Adam Schroeder, or Next Level PTW LLC, 4401 SW Cambridge Ave., Topeka, KS 66614.

To share a memory of Lanny or leave a message for his family, please visit the guestbook below.