Stewart L. Entz

Stewart L. Entz, age 86, of Topeka, died on September 20, 2026, at his home, surrounded by his family.

Stewart was born on June 1, 1940, in Hutchinson, Kansas, to Abraham and Leona (Hoefer) Entz. He graduated from Hutchinson High School in 1958, Baker University in 1962, and Washburn University School of Law in 1965. He then served three years in the U.S. Air Force Judge Advocate General's Corps in Aurora, Colorado.

Stewart married his high school sweetheart, Elinor (Herron) Entz, on August 5, 1961, in Hutchinson, Kansas, and together they built a home centered on faith and family. They were blessed with three children, Stephen, Michael, and Heather.

Stewart practiced law in Topeka for nearly 60 years, where he focused on business, employment, construction and labor law. He was Chancellor for the Kansas East Conference of the United Methodist Church, and involved in formation of Kansas Association of Homes for the Aging (now LeadingAge Kansas) and Brewster Place. He later served as local counsel for the State of Kansas in the national litigation against the tobacco industry, which resulted in the landmark decision that led to a major recovery for the State. He was respected by colleagues and clients alike for his integrity and professional courtesy.

In retirement, Stewart served on the founding board of the Kansas Children’s Discovery Center. At the Combat Air Museum, he loved volunteering, served on the Board, and was Wing Commander for four years, where his lifelong fascination with World War II history found purpose as he helped restore aircraft and develop exhibits. He was a member of Countryside United Methodist Church for 57 years, where he served on the Countryside Forever Foundation, Lay Leader, and other committees. He also enjoyed being part of the Military Vehicle Preservation Association, the Military Order of World Wars, the Air Force Association, and the downtown Topeka Rotary Club for more than 50 years.

Stewart's faith guided his life, his work, and the way he faced his battle with cancer. A few days before his passing, with his family around him, he said he has lived a wonderful life and asked his family to “take care of Mom and keep making memories together.” He comforted those around him by sharing his belief that dying is “no big deal” for anyone who knows Jesus. One of his final joys was returning home from the hospital with hospice care, looking around his study with a big smile, and saying how happy he felt to be home with his family.

Stewart was a devoted husband, a loving father, cherished Papa, respected attorney and faithful friend to many. To those who knew him, he was a man of unwavering honesty, extraordinary kindness and generosity.

Stewart is survived by his wife of 65 years, Elinor; his children, Stephen Entz, Michael (Amy) Entz, and Heather Entz Keys; his grandchildren, Alexandra, Isabel, and Ryleigh; his brother, Lin Entz; and numerous extended family and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Jim Entz; and two sisters, Onie Cooper and Donnys Womack.

Stewart was entombed at Mount Hope Cemetery in a private family ceremony. A Celebration of Life will be held on Monday, October 5, 2026, at Countryside United Methodist Church, 3221 SW Burlingame, Topeka, Kansas 66611, with visitation starting at 10:00, and service at 11:00

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Countryside United Methodist Church (address above) or the Combat Air Museum, at 7016 SE Forbes Ave., Topeka, Kansas 66619.