Rex C. Wilt

Rex Carmen Wilt, 83, passed away Thursday, November 5, 2015.

Born March 2, 1932 in Topeka, Kansas to George and Esther (Pusch) Wilt, Rex was a 1950 graduate of Highland Park High School where he lettered in tennis all four years. Rex attended Washburn University.

Various jobs Rex enjoyed include caddying at the Shawnee Country Club and hauling feed for The Shimer Feed Store. He also worked for Santa Fe Railroad. Rex retired from Kansas Power and Light in 1990 after 36 years of service.
Rex served in the United States Naval Reserve eight years. He was a member of the American Legion in Manhattan, KS. He was a long-time member of Seaman Baptist Church where he worshiped with his family. He later attended Bethel Community Church, where he enjoyed watching grandchildren perform in various productions and Christmas programs.

Rex married Pearl Mae Pracht October 7, 1956 in Kechi, KS. Their first date was sailing on Shawnee Lake. Pearl survives. Other surviving family includes sons Dana Rex Wilt and Michael Kevin Wilt (Nancy); daughter-in-law, Jacqueline Kathleen Wilt; and five grandchildren-- Sheridan Rex Wilt, Brooklyn Michelle Wilt, Madison Leigh Wilt, Ethan Montgomery Wilt and Kathleen Marie "Kate" Wilt. He was preceded in death in March of this year by son Douglas Alan Wilt; previously by his parents, brother George C. Wilt and sister Patricia K. Hall. Rex always had at least one faithful canine companion in his adult life. It is not only humans missing him.

While in third grade Rex began playing violin, soon performing with the Highland Park High School Orchestra as well as second chair violin with the Topeka Civic Symphony. In high school Rex also played in the brass section. Years later he played fiddle in the Elmont Opry. For many years Rex enjoyed playing the fiddle with fellow musician friends from the Alma, Kansas area. He played in two groups which performed for nursing homes and senior centers. Most recently Rex played in Country Tyme Band.

In addition to music, Rex had multiple other interests. He was active in Boy Scouts of America as a youngster. Rex enjoyed playing tennis, sailing, fishing and other outdoor pastimes. He enjoyed playing cards with friends and family. Rex made home brew and some great wines, frequently using fruits or berries he and Pearl grew themselves or which grew wild on their property. The family enjoyed cider made from their apple trees as well as fresh peaches, apricots, cherries, mulberries, grapes and more. The family always looked forward to his excellent Christmas eggnog.

An accomplished gardener, Rex enjoyed canning and pickling peppers and other produce from his garden and fruit trees. Rex was well known for outdoor grilling and his delicious steaks and baked potatoes. He enjoyed cooking indoors, as well.

Per Rex's choice his body was cremated. Memorial service will be 2 p.m. Thursday, November 12, 2015 at Penwell-Gabel Parker-Price Chapel, 245 N.W. Independence Avenue, Topeka. Casual attire is suggested. Family will receive friends an hour prior to the service.

Memorial contributions may be made to Midland Care, 200 SW Frazier Circle, Topeka, KS 66606.

To leave a special message for Rex's family please visit the guestbook below.