Paul M. Halderman

M. Paul Halderman, 83, of Topeka, passed away peacefully with his family by his side, Wednesday, April 22, 2026.

He was born May 1, 1942, in Pine Bluff, Arkansas, the son of Marvin and Dora (Schuette) Halderman. He attended Highland Park High School and later completed his GED at the age of 52 from Topeka Public Schools. He served in the United States Army for a total of 6 years.

Paul was employed with the Shawnee County Road and Bridge working in various positions until his retirement in 2004.

Paul married Rita Comstock on May 29, 1965 in Topeka. She survives. Other survivors include children, Allen (Cassey) Halderman, Becky (Bill) Baker, and Heather (Carl) Rake; grandchildren, Kelsey (Tyler) Dooley, Paul Baker, Madison (Colby) Burger, Rachel (Kacy) Adams, Mackenzie Baker, Katareena (Ean) Rake, and Kyndall Rake; 5 great grandchildren; sister, Jean; and many nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, 4 sisters, and granddaughter, Amy Louise Halderman.

Paul was a loving family man, always fond of getting together for family events and spending time with his grandchildren and great grandchildren. His passion was racing and watching his son carry on that tradition in dirt track racing. He won the Track Championship in 1968 at the Shawnee Speedway with car #178. In his later years he kept himself busy always tinkering around the house and garage. He was a master with his hands and could be quite the Mr. Fix-it.

A Celebration of Paul's Life will be held from 6:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m., Monday, May 4, 2026 at Dove Southeast Chapel, 2843 SE Minnesota Ave, Topeka, KS 66605. Stop in at your convenience to share memories and time together. In tribute to Paul’s love of racing, feel free to wear your favorite racing shirt.

Memorial contributions may be made to Tecumseh United Methodist Church, 334 SE Tecumseh Rd, Tecumseh, KS 66542 or Habitat for Humanity, 121 NE Gordon St, Topeka, KS 66608.

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