Timothy Francis Degginger, age 78, after ‘raging against the dying of the light’, finally went ‘gently into that good night’ on Saturday, April 19, 2025.

Tim was a man of many talents and intellectual pursuits and will be well remembered for his intelligent and pithy conversations and his quickness to a laugh. He was well-read and sincerely interested in the stories of his friends and acquaintances.

He was also an extraordinarily private man. The last thing he would want here is a chronicle of his many achievements and awards. But perhaps he would say thank you and even a “you’re welcome” for his involvements in the community. He played center on the Washburn University football team. He was a long-time board member for the Salvation Army, an inductee in the Topeka High Hall of Fame, and a member of the Saturday Night Literary Club … all dear to his heart.

Tim graduated from the University of Kansas School of Law in 1972. He was a practicing lawyer in Lawrence when his father died, and he took the reins as the third-generation owner of Deggingers’ Foundry in Topeka. Armed with the physique of a foundryman, a degree in chemistry, and the heart of a poet, he set about leaving a legacy of beauty across Topeka, the country and the world.

Tim was a lover of animals and children. He wrote poetry throughout his life. All were welcome to stop in the foundry, see projects in process, and engage in conversation. He had a bone crushing handshake.

Tim kept a journal for his entire adult life, filled with poetry, observations, aspirations, and to-do lists. His last entry was in January. One word. “Imagine.”