Darrel D. Oldham

Darrel D. Oldham, 78, of Topeka passed away on Saturday, January 18, 2014 at St. Francis Hospital in Topeka. Darrel was born July 15, 1935 in Topeka the son of Clarence and Lula (James) Oldham. He graduated from Lecompton High School and later attended Emporia State. He later spent two years in the Army, stationed mostly at Augusta, Georgia. Darrel was a good baseball player, and the Chicago Cubs and Chicago White Sox sent scouts to watch him play.
On December 20, 1958, Darrel married Donna Bervert at Highland Park United Methodist Church. They recently enjoyed their 55 wedding anniversary.
Darrel owned and operated Oldham Oil Company. After retiring, he was a Supervisor at the dock area at the Docking State Office Building and then went on to be crew chief for North Topeka Drainage.
Survivors include his wife, Donna Oldham of Topeka; daughter, Shannon Oldham of Topeka, two granddaughters, Tatum and Abby Musick of Topeka ; his brother, James Oldham of Lecompton; his best friend for many years, Ken Abrams; and his little companion, Maggie the Yorkie.
Preceding Darrel in death are his parents, Clarence and Lula and his sister, Lueva Steenbock.
Darrel was a street rodder and was really proud of his 37 Chevy. He loved old country music, watching birds, gardening and sports, especially when K-State was playing.
Cremation is planned. A memorial service will be held at 3:00 pm on Friday, January 24th at Davidson Funeral Home. The family asks if you own a street rod, and want to bring it to Darrel’s memorial service, that would be great. And they want everybody to be comfortable, so wear your jeans. The family will receive friends prior to the service beginning at 2:00 p.m. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude’s Hospital and sent in care of Davidson Funeral Home, 1035 N. Kansas Ave, Topeka, KS 66608.