Donald Eugene Rumsey, age 78, of Holton, KS, passed away Monday, July 2, 2018 at the Topeka Presbyterian Manor in Topeka, KS. He was born July 9, 1939 in Topeka, KS, the son of Vene F. and Constance (Ludwig) Rumsey.

Don served in the United States Army from 1958 - 1961. He was a combat engineer and earned the rank of E-4. After his service in the Army, Donald went to work for Santa Fe Railroad as a machinist. He worked for over 40 years and retired in June of 2001.

On May 27, 1983 Don was united in marriage to Carol (Haas) Newman. They shared over 17 years of marriage before she passed away on January 17, 2001.

Don’s love and passion was sprint car racing.

Donald is survived by his son, Douglas Newman (Jerri) of Shawnee, KS; and 3 grandchildren Deanna, Jenna and Joshua.

Donald is preceded in death by his brother Ronald J. Rumsey and an infant brother.

Funeral Service will be 11:00 a.m. Friday, July 6, 2018 at the Mercer Funeral Home in Holton. Family will greet friends one hour prior to service time. Burial with Military Honors will follow in the Holton Cemetery. Memorials may be given to the Steve King Foundation (helping racing families heal) c/o Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 270, Holton, KS 66436. To leave a special message for the family, please visit www.mercerfuneralhomes.com.