Lauren Russell Stauffer, 92, of Holton passed away Thursday, April 9, 2015 at Vintage Park. 

His family all knew his birthday was October 5 but October 12 is listed on legal documents. He was born in 1922 in rural Jackson County (Banner Township), the son of Russell Ambrose and Charlotte Elizabeth (Stephenson) Stauffer.  Lauren attended Pleasant Valley Grade School, and graduated from Circleville High School in 1940.  On March 25, 1942 he married Saxon Louise Smith in Holton. After an adventuresome life together, Saxon preceded him in death on September 18, 2001.  Lauren was a farmer and also worked for the State of Kansas Highway Department from 1950-1984.  Lauren and Saxon were always open to helping friends and strangers in need.  They loved taking road trips, always in a Ford.  Their grandchildren and great grandchildren were the joy of their lives. They attended Larkinburg Christian Church. 

He is survived by:  his son Dennis Stauffer of Topeka; his daughter Darlene Whitlock and husband Gary of Silver Lake; his daughter-in-law, Becky Moore Stauffer of Topeka; his sisters-in-law, Ramona Riederer and Patricia Smith both of Holton; his grandchildren, Katie Stauffer Weed, Lance and Matthew Whitlock and Laura Stauffer; his great-grandchildren, Heather and Erika Weed, Abigail and Alexandria Whitlock; his grandson-in-law David Weed; his granddaughters-in-law Elizabeth Whitlock and Karoline Jarr; and a beloved extended family.  In addition to his wife, Lauren was preceded in death by his son, Darrell Stauffer, and his brothers, Auswell and Thayne Stauffer.

Lauren’s family would like to give special thanks to all the Vintage Park staff.  Their kindness and compassion is greatly appreciated. 

Lauren was cremated; interment will be at a later date in the Fox Cemetery near Wheaton alongside his wife.  Memorial Services will be with Mercer Funeral Home on Saturday, April 18.  In lieu of a funeral service, there will be a celebration of Lauren’s life from 1-2pm where friends and family are invited to share memories.  The visitation will follow from 2-4pm.  Casual dress is welcome.  In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the Topeka Rescue Mission or the Kansas Historical Foundation and may be left in care of Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 270, Holton, 66436.  To leave a special message for the family, visit www.mercerfuneralhomes.com