Van John Whightsil, 61, of Topeka, passed away Wednesday, June 27, 2018. He was born August 23, 1956, in Salt Lake City, Utah, the son of John H. and Harriet F. (Livingston) Whightsil. He was a graduate of Topeka West High School and attended Washburn University. He served in U.S. Marines and later retiring from the Army National Guard. Van was employed by the Topeka Water Department over 20 years. He was a former member of Westminster Presbyterian Church, and a member of Orient Lodge No. 51, A.F. & A.M. in Topeka. Survivors include a sister, Donna M. Waltzer, and her husband, Richard of Bayside, New York; his niece, Stacey Waltzer and her husband, Adam Orentlicher of North Carolina; and his nephew, David Waltzer and his wife, Sarah of New York; great nieces, Allyson and Nessa; and great-nephews, Eric and Colin. He was preceded in death by his parents, and a son, John Paul Whightsil in August 9, 2000. Van loved spending time with his girl-friend, Jan and his cats. He enjoyed the outdoors, especially fishing, hiking, vacationing in Colorado, and was very patriotic to his country. Cremation is planned. A memorial ceremony will be held at 10:00 a.m., Monday, July 2, 2018 at the Dove Cremations and Funerals, Southwest Chapel, 3700 SW Wanamaker Rd, Topeka. Memorial contributions may be made to Helping Hands Humane Society, 5720 SW 21st St, Topeka, Kansas 66604 or to Doorstep Inc., 1119 SW 10th Ave, Topeka, Kansas 66604. On-line condolences can be left at http://www.dovetopeka.com/Obituary/159934/Van-Whightsil/Dove-Kansas