Jim Gravenstein

James W. Gravenstein, 97, of Topeka, Kansas passed away on Wednesday, August 5, 2026.

He was born in Riley, Kansas on August 16,1928. He spent his early years on a farm then the family moved into town when Fort Riley expanded and took the farm. After high school, he joined the U.S. Navy and served in the Submarines. After being discharged, he returned to Kansas and started working for John Deer in Salina then later moved to Topeka and started working for Ripley Cleaners as a Route Driver. In 1957, he went to work for the US Postal Service as a Carrier and retired from there in 1989. He was a member of Grace Baptist Church.

He was a lifetime member of the American Legion, where he was very active for a number of years. He was Post 400 Commander 1981-1982, 1st District Commander 1990-1991, Kansas Department Commander 1993-1994 and National Vice Commander 1998-1999. He was involved in the Legion Oratorical Committee for 20 years. He was also Chairman for the building of the All Veterans Memorial at the Great Overland Station in North Topeka.

He was proceeded in death by his wife of 70 years, Darlene L. Gravenstein; his parents, Levi and Hazel Gravenstein and his two brothers, Merton and Gerald Gravenstein.

He is survived by his children, Steven Gravenstein of Topeka, KS, Cheryl Brummett of Topeka, KS, Lee Gravenstein of Topeka, KS, Alan (Donna) Gravenstein of Ozawkie, KS and Ted Gravenstein of Topeka, KS; 10 grandchildren, 14 great grandchildren and two great- great granddaughters.

Condolences can be made at Parker Price and Davidson Funeral Home on Monday, August 10, 2026 starting at 10:00am. Funeral service will follow at 11:00 am. Following the Funeral service he will laid to rest at Rochester Cemetery with Military Honors presented by the American Legion Post 400. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Legion Post 400 or the Alzheimer's Association .