Funeral services for Ivan E. Wiggins, 89, Lawrence, will be at 10 am Thursday at Rumsey-Yost Funeral Home. Burial will follow in Memorial Park Cemetery. Ivan died Saturday, Oct. 24, 2015, at Stormont-Vail Health Care in Topeka.
He was born Oct. 24, 1926, in Lawrence, the son of Otis and Mable L. LaDuke Wiggins. He attended Lawrence schools, and later served in the United States Army during World War II. Ivan was a carpenter for the Lawrence Union Local for 55 years. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and woodworking, especially making things for his kids and grandkids.
He married Lois I. Craig on May 30, 1947, in Ottawa. She preceded him in death in 1996. He was also preceded in death by his parents and five siblings, Elwood Wiggins, Ray Wiggins, Carl Wiggins, Jim Wiggins, and Patty French. Survivors include five children, Sharon Thibodeau and husband Joe, Lawrence, Mary Burgert and husband Dennis, Afton, Va., Carol Knotts and husband Mike, Wichita, Linda Hoover, LaClede, Mo., and Charlie Wiggins and wife Pam, Lawrence; a sister, Doris Hughes, Lawrence; a sister in law, Betty Wiggins, Eudora; thirteen grandchildren, twenty great grandchildren, and one great-great granddaughter.
Friends may call from noon to 8 pm Wednesday at the funeral home, where the family will receive them from 6-7 pm. Memorial contributions are suggested to the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP), in care of the funeral home, 601 Indiana St., Lawrence, KS, 66044. Online condolences may be sent at rumsey-yost.com
Sharon, Charlie and Joe,
We were so saddened to hear of Ivans passing. You are in our thoughts and prayers and hope that you all can find peace and comfort in the coming days and weeks.
We are with you in thought, and should you need anything at all, just ask.
Charlie, please know that my heartfelt thoughts, prayers and love are with you and your precious family. I was sorry to hear about your Dad’s passing. He was a wonderful and loving family man. May God’s love and peace be with all of you now and always. Beverly Lasswell
Linda, we are praying for you and your family at this time of your loss. Our hearts go out to you with love. Pastor Jane
Mary, I am very sorry to learn about your dad’s passing, and I’m praying for your family.
Mary we are saddened to hear about the passing of your dad. You and Dennis are in our thoughts and prayers.
Mary we are saddened to hear about the passing of your dad. Please know our thoughts and prayers are with you and Dennis during this difficult time.
Sharon and Joe, You have become a big part of our family. You have brought us into your family. There are no words that can can fill the void in your life with Ivan’s passing. Know that we are here for you and that our thoughts and prayers are with you and the family.
Sharon, I’m sorry to hear of your Dad’s passing. My sincere condolences to you and your family at this difficult time.
Shari Wiggins (from USD 497)