John Eugene Schmidtberger, age 74, of Topeka, Kansas, passed away of natural causes in July 15, 2025, at the Midland Care Hospice House.

John was born on October 18, 1950, in Topeka, Kansas, to Wilma (Swafford) Schmidtberger and Emmanuel Schmidtberger. A lifelong resident of Topeka, he graduated from Topeka West High School.

He spent many years working as a packaging operator at Hill’s Pet Nutrition, where he remained until his retirement.

John loved spending time with his family and took special joy in helping raise two generations of nieces and nephews, whom he affectionately called “the grandkids.” His favorite pastimes included going to the casino and playing cards.

He is survived by his sisters, Connie Pate of Esto, Florida, and Debbie Harris of Topeka,

Kansas; nephews Ryan Pruitt and Sean Garinger; and nieces Tammy Higbee, Melissa Traphagan, Katina Johnson, Katie O’Brien, and Natasha Pruitt. He also leaves behind great-nieces Cheyenne, Victoria, and Lily, and great-nephews Isaiah, Zachary, Isaac, and Russell.

John was preceded in death by his parents; his former wife, Margie Schmidtberger of Topeka; two sisters, Vicki Traphagan of Scranton, Kansas, and Brenda Gros of Topeka, Kansas; and a niece, Heather Richards.

A celebration of John’s life will be held at a later date.