Doris Adella Kendall

Doris Adella Kendall, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great-grandmother, passed away peacefully in Topeka, Kansas, on November 18, 2025, at the age of 93. Born on December 11, 1931, in Topeka, Doris was a vibrant soul who brightened the lives of everyone around her.

Doris graduated Valedictorian from Seaman High School in 1949, a testament to her intelligence and dedication. Throughout her life, she excelled in numerous roles, serving as a bookkeeper for her husband and for various banks in Topeka. However, her most cherished role was that of a homemaker, where she dedicated herself to nurturing and supporting her family.

Her spirit was marked by an unwavering positivity, an infectious sense of humor, and the heart of an overcomer. Doris triumphed over the challenges life presented, notably surviving polio as a young child, which only fueled her determination to never let anything hold her back. She had a deep love for music, often filling her home with little songs sung to her children, memories that will forever echo in their hearts. Her affinity for life was further expressed through her hobbies, which included dancing, bird watching, and engaging in crafts such as crochet, knitting, and sewing.

Doris's proudest accomplishment in life was undoubtedly her family. She is survived by her cherished children: Cheryl L. (Dave d.2021) Hovious, Douglas E. (Agustin Meza Montes) Kendall, Bradley D. (Julie) Kendall, Anita C. (Roger) Jorgenson, Robert E. (Jean) Kendall Jr., Steven C. (Denise) Kendall, Pamela G. (Craig) Vandervoort and Scott D. Kendall. In addition to her children, Doris leaves behind a legacy of love extended through her 17 grandchildren, 35 great-grandchildren, and 5 great-great-grandchildren, all of whom were undoubtedly touched by her warmth and kindness.

Doris now reunites with her beloved husband, Robert Edward Kendall, and her parents, Lloyd and Dorothy Holden (Elkins), along with her grandson, Jeffrey Hovious, and great-grandsons, Gunner Carrier and Joey Davis, who have preceded her in death. The joy she brought to this world and the love she shared will surely be remembered by all whose lives she enriched.

A touching tribute to a life well-lived, Doris Adella Kendall continues to inspire those who knew her with memories of laughter, love, and resilience. Her spirit will forever remain in the hearts of her family, a shining example of a life devoted to love and family.

Private family services are planned.

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