Gary W. Grimes, 74, of Topeka, passed away unexpectedly on January 10, 2025.
Gary was born on January 29, 1950, to Gerald and Ellen Grimes in Hays, Kansas. Due to his father’s construction work, Gary spent much of his childhood moving around Kansas, finally settling in Manhattan, KS, as he entered junior high. After graduating from Manhattan High School, Gary studied Architecture at Kansas State University.
Gary earned dual degrees in Architecture and Construction Science from Kansas State and began his career with a construction company in Hutchinson, Kansas. He later moved to Topeka, KS, and continued a long career in Architecture. Over the years, Gary held various roles, including positions with Douglas Construction, with the State of Kansas as an architect, and eventually became the Director of Facilities. He worked with a construction company contracted by Kansas State University to build the Jardine Apartment complex and the original football stadium expansion. As an independent contract architect, he designed homes and businesses throughout Hutchinson, Topeka, and Manhattan. Gary spent the majority of his career with the State of Kansas, where he served for 31 years before retiring in 2016.
Gary married Victoria A. Chavez in June 1995. They shared 29 years of marriage. Gary’s pride and joy were his four children, Kari Ritter (Topeka), Todd Grimes (Shawnee), Maria and her husband Ben Buchanan (Topeka), Isabel Grimes (Topeka), and his very favorite granddaughter, Ava Ritter.
A dedicated K-State fan, Gary spent countless hours attending football and basketball games. The Wildcats brought both immense joy and occasional frustration to his life, while also creating countless cherished memories with his family. Gary also found great satisfaction working in his yard, tending to his beautiful landscapes and gardens. There was nothing he loved more than riding on the back of his John Deere tractor. In addition, Gary was passionate about motorcycles and enjoyed riding his Harley, having owned many bikes over the years. He watched Jeopardy religiously and somehow, always knew the answers! Gary also had a deep love for music, especially Elvis, and was an avid reader. Gary loved sports, playing and watching them. He played basketball, volleyball, and softball, even playing softball up until his passing.
Gary was currently serving as the president of the 70th Infantry Division, a position close to his heart, inspired by his father’s service in the Army during World War II.
Gary had a big heart and was blessed to know and be loved by so many.
Gary was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Larry Grimes.
He is survived by his wife Vicky, his children, his granddaughter, and many nieces and nephews.
A visitation with the family will be held Friday, January 17, from 5:00-8:00 pm at the Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home, with a rosary occurring at 6:00 pm. The funeral service will be held at 10:00 am on Saturday, January 18, at the Fellowship Bible Church, located at 6800 SW 10th Avenue, Topeka, KS 66615.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the 70th Infantry Division Association or the College of Architecture, Planning & Design at Kansas State University, two organizations Gary held in high regard, sent in care of Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home, 800 SW 6th Ave. Topeka, KS 66603.
Arrangements entrusted to Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home.
