Lavern Wendall Abney, also known as “Dutch,” passed away peacefully on May 2, 2025, at the age of 89, due to heart failure. Born on December 10, 1935, in Paola, Kansas, Dutch was a man whose laughter and kindness touched the hearts of many throughout his life. He drew his last breath in Topeka, KS, surrounded by the love of his family.
Dutch was a devoted husband to his wife, Peggy Abney, and a loving father to Brenda (Gabriel) Gonzalez, Barbara Abney, Mark (Judith) Abney, James (Stephanie) Abney, and brother to Leonard Abney of Rossville, Arkansas. His legacy continues through his cherished grandchildren, Mark Abney Jr., Nicholas (Amber) Abney, Hailee, and Preston Abney, and two great-grandchildren, Nixon, and Aspyn Abney. Dutch was preceded in death by his dear sisters, Ellen Lou McMorran and Jacquline Mewhinney, his brothers, Robert Abney, and James (Jimmy) Abney.
Dutch’s early years were spent in the Ottawa School District, where he laid the foundation for a life characterized by hard work and dedication. His commitment to service was evident through his honorable tenure in both the United States Navy and the United States Air Force. Following his military service, Dutch continued to serve his community as a Service Representative for the City of Topeka Water Department, where his work ethic and jovial nature made him a well-respected figure.
Beyond his professional life, Dutch was a man of the land. His interests in farming, cattle, breaking of horses, gardening, and working his acreage were not just pastimes but passions that he pursued with vigor and joy. The fruits of his labor were not only the crops he harvested but also the smiles he cultivated among friends and family who were always welcome to share in the bounty of his gardens.
Those who knew Dutch will remember him as a man who was funny, generous, and kind. His humor was a gift that he freely shared, bringing lightness to any room he entered. His generosity knew no bounds, as he was always the first to lend a helping hand or offer support to those in need. Above all, his kindness was a constant, a trait that defined his character and made him a beloved figure in the lives of all who had the pleasure of knowing him. In 1990 Dutch was nominated as a Kentucky Colonel. Late one evening an elderly gentleman and is wife needed help getting back to their hotel as they were visiting from Kentucky. Dutch assisted the couple to ensure they made it to their hotel safely. The couple then nominated Dutch for the Kentucky Colonel award, and he was selected as the recipient.
Dutch’s life was a tapestry woven with love, laughter, and an unwavering commitment to his family and community. As we say goodbye to this remarkable man, we take comfort in the countless memories and the enduring impact he has left on our hearts. Dutch’s spirit will forever be a guiding light for his family, a beacon of the values he held dear.
We will gather to honor and celebrate the life of Lavern “Dutch” Wendall Abney, a man whose legacy is as rich and enduring as the soil he cherished. His life was a testament to the beauty of simplicity, the strength of character, and the power of a life well-lived. Dutch’s story does not end here, for he lives on in the hearts of his loved ones and the many lives he touched. Rest in peace, dear Dutch, until we meet again.
The family will greet friends at a visitation service on Thursday, May 15, 2025, from 6:00-8:00pm at Eastside Baptist Church.
Funeral services will be held on Friday, May 16, 2025, at 10:30 am with brunch to follow at Eastside Baptist Church, 4425 SE 29th St, Topeka KS 66605.
