James Ted Wade
Obituary
James Ted Wade, 89, Topeka, passed away
Wednesday (Sept. 21, 2016).
Ted was born Feb. 22, 1927, in
Cleburne, Texas, the son of Melvin and Margaret Hulette Wade. Ted is
a second generation railroad man. His father was employed by the
Santa Fe Railroad and the family was transferred around to many
locations. Ted graduated from Newton High School in Newton and earned
his bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering from the University
of Kansas. On June 8, 1950, Ted and Mary Beverly Polhans were united
in marriage, enjoying more than 65 years together prior to her death
on Sept. 2, 2015.
Ted started his career with Santa Fe
Railroad in 1950 and over the years had many moves throughout the
Santa Fe territory, as well as numerous promotions. He and his
colleagues designed and patented a fuel-efficient piggyback rail car
and he retired as manager of the mechanical engineering department in
Topeka in 1987.
Ted was an active member of Christ the
King Parish, serving as an usher for the church. He served as a
committee member and chair of the American Association of Railroads
and had a huge model railroad.
He was also an enthusiastic Jayhawk
basketball fan, enjoyed photography and after retirement he and Bev
traveled a great deal, including to all U.S. states (except Hawaii),
Canada and Mexico. Ted was always a good provider for his family, was
dearly loved and will be greatly missed.
Survivors include his children, Mary
Ellen Kelly (Dennis) and Mike Wade (Becky); two grandchildren; five
step-grandchildren; nine step-great-grandchildren; and two nieces.
Visitation will be from 12 to 1 p.m.
Sunday (Sept. 25, 2016) at Kevin Brennan Family Funeral Home, 2801 SW
Urish Road, Topeka, KS 66614.
A parish rosary will be prayed at 9:30
a.m. Monday (Sept. 26, 2016) at Christ the King Church, where Mass of
Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Burial will follow in
Mt. Calvary Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a
donation to Christ the King Church or to Stormont-Vail Hospital
Palliative Care Unit, sent in care of the funeral home. Condolences
may be sent online to www.kevinbrennanfamily.com
