Gary Wayne Bartlett

Gary Wayne Bartlett, of Lawrence, passed away Friday, January 9, 2026, at Aldersgate Care Facility in Topeka, due to complications from ALS and dementia.

Gary was born in Lawrence on August 23, 1950, to Margaret “Peggy” Elston Bartlett and Norman Bartlett. He graduated from Lawrence High School in 1968 and began his career at the FMC Chemical Plant in Lawrence. After one year, he enlisted in the United States Air Force, where he served as an air freight specialist and was stationed in Texas, California, Okinawa, and Alaska. He was honorably discharged in 1973.

Following his military service, Gary returned to FMC, where he dedicated 43 years of service before retiring in 2011.

On November 15, 1975, Gary married Susan Durkin. They celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary this past November. They welcomed two daughters: Cathy in 1977 and Melanie in 1979.

Gary and Susan were active members of the River City Cosmopolitan Club, a service organization devoted to diabetes education and research. Together, they traveled throughout the United States and Canada attending international conventions and formed many lifelong friendships. Gary served the organization in numerous leadership roles, including Club President, Federation Governor, and International Vice President of Membership and Club Building. He also co-founded the Emerald City Club in Topeka.

Gary treasured time spent visiting Cathy and her family in Fort Collins, Colorado, and Melanie and her family in Newmarket, Ontario, Canada. He especially enjoyed sitting in his driveway, listening to Jimmy Buffett music, and keeping a watchful eye on the neighborhood.

In January 2023, Gary was diagnosed with ALS and frontotemporal dementia. His health gradually declined over the following three years. After developing pneumonia and sepsis, he was cared for by the compassionate staff at Aldersgate until his passing.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents, grandparents, and aunts and uncles. He is survived by his wife, Susie; daughter Cathy Jones (Stephen) and grandsons Dillon and Porter Jones of Fort Collins, Colorado; daughter Melanie Thomson and granddaughter Finley Thomson of Newmarket, Ontario, Canada; sister Gaylene Beatty of Carbondale, Kansas; several nieces and nephews; and his Durkin brothers- and sisters-in-law: Dave and Phillis, John and Barb, Jim and Janet, and Don and Monica.

The family extends special thanks to Bert from Grace Home Health Care; VA Home Health Care; Lawrence Fire Department for lift assistance; Sean and Kristin Shore for their many acts of kindness; and the wonderful family, neighbors, and friends who provided support and help while Gary was still at home.

Graveside Services with Military Honors will be 1 pm, Saturday, April 4, 2026, at Memorial Park Cemetery. A Celebration of Life will be from 2-4pm at Wayne and Larry’s.

Memorial contributions may be made to