Darold Gene Brunkow

 Darold Gene Brunkow, 82, from Wamego, Kansas, passed away on April 11, 2026, at the Home of the Flint Hills care home, St. George, Kansas.

 Darold was born on August 4, 1943, in Wamego, Kansas, to parents Oliver and Verna (Walters) Brunkow. Darold’s life was deeply rooted in the values of hard work and family tradition—a testament to his upbringing as the fourth generation on a multi-generational Pottawatomie County farm.

 Darold answered the call to serve his country by joining the U.S. Air Force during the Vietnam conflict, dedicating four years as an aircraft mechanic. Upon returning home, he resumed his vital role on the family farm after his father suffered a heart attack, demonstrating his sense of responsibility to both family and community. On August 1, 1969, he was united in marriage to Janis Miller in Lawrence, Kansas.

 From an early age, Darold was immersed in farm life, working alongside his parents on the farm that flourished through the cultivation of soybeans, corn, wheat, hay, dairy cows, hogs, and beef cows. His devotion to the land continued well into his later years, where he worked side by side with his son and daughter-in-law.

 Throughout his life, Darold’s contributions extended far beyond the farm fields. As an active member of the First Presbyterian Church in Wamego, he devoted himself to the congregation serving nineteen three-year terms as an elder and various other roles. His community involvement was also felt in numerous organizations including the Pottawatomie County Water District 1 Board, the Louisville Township Board, and as a volunteer with the Louisville Fire Department. His spirit of service extended into humanitarian efforts as well, participating in mission trips such as the aid work in New Orleans following Hurricane Katrina. In his spare time, Darold enjoyed hunting and fishing. Especially when time was shared with family and friends.

 Darold is survived by his beloved children, Glenn (Jennifer) Brunkow and Andrea (Scott) Marquis; grandchildren Isaac Brunkow, Tatum Brunkow, Shawn Marquis, and Janna Marquis; siblings Beth Coon, Leroy (Sue) Brunkow, Mary (Dan) Resser, and Nancy Moffett; brothers-in-law Jim Miller and Carl (Connie) Miller; along with many nieces and nephews.

 Darold was preceded in death by his parents and his wife.

 Family, friends, and community members are invited to a visitation that will be held Friday, April 17, 2026, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the First Presbyterian Church in Wamego.

 Darold's Celebration of Life service will be held on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at the First Presbyterian Church in Wamego, with a lunch to follow.

 Memorial contributions are suggested to the “First Presbyterian Church in Wamego.” You can make an online donation at the following link: First Presbyterian Church in Wamego Online Donation. Please make checks payable to the organization, and those may be left in care of Campanella & Stewart Funeral Home, P. O. Box 48, Wamego, Kansas, 66547.

 Funeral and cremation arrangements are in the care of Campanella & Stewart Funeral Home, Wamego. Burial will be held at a later date.

 Darold’s life stands as a solemn tribute to the enduring values of hard work, service, and faith.