Casper Ralph Eakes, Jr.

Casper Ralph Eakes, Jr., 77, Topeka, died Wed., March 21, 2012, at Aldersgate Village. He was born July 1, 1934, in Topeka, the son of Casper P. Eakes, Sr. and Mary Ann (Kaberlein) Eakes.

Casper worked at the Santa Fe Shops for over 41 years and was a member of the Coach Carpenters Union. He was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church.

Casper was married to Joan A. McKnaught on July 3, 1952, in Topeka. She survives. Also surviving are his children: Tammy Crites (Marc) of Holton, Gary Eakes of Topeka, and Candy Bayless of Topeka; siblings: Paul Eakes, Louis Eakes, JoAnne Hibbert, Barb Kirmse, Eileen Bohannon, AnnJeanette Lambert, and Theresa Zotto, all of Topeka; 7 grandchildren; and 7 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a son, Terry Eakes, on June 10, 1978; and siblings: Francis "Booty" Eakes, Robert Eakes, John Eakes, Mary Lou Duman, and Delores O'Flaherty.

Funeral services will be at 10:00 AM, Sat., March 24, 2012, at Penwell-Gabel Parker-Price Chapel, 245 NW Independence Ave., Topeka. Interment will be in Topeka Cemetery. Casper will lie in state after 3:00 PM, Fri., at the funeral chapel where a rosary will be prayed at 6:30 PM, and the family will receive friends from 7:00 to 8:00 PM. Memorial contributions may be made to Grace Hospice, 3715 SW 29th St., Ste. 100, Topeka, KS 66614.