Richard Thomas Runge

Richard Thomas Runge, 89, passed away on Thursday, August 14, 2025 in Topeka, KS. He was born February 17, 1936 in Aurora, IL, the son of Arthur and Mildred (Clark) Runge. On June 13, 1970, he married Barbara Jean Leavel; their marriage lasted 55 years until his death. His proudest moment was June 2, 1975, the day their daughter Heather was born.

An avid golfer, he served in the U.S. Air Force before becoming a salesman throughout his working life. He was very witty, ornery, kind and a loving husband, father, grandfather and uncle.

He is survived by his wife, daughter Heather Elizabeth Bieker (Chris), granddaughter Madeline Olivia Bieker, niece Mary Mentock (Gary) and nephew Bill Leavel (Julie). Services will be on Friday, September 19, at 1:00 p.m. at First Christian Church, Topeka, with the Revs. Neil Engle, Paxton Jones and Bonnie Goodwin officiating.

Memorials are suggested to the Disciples Center at Tawakoni in care of the Christian Church in Kansas, PO Box 4195, Topeka, KS 66604.