Frederick “Wayne” Altenburg, 73, of Holton, KS, passed away Tuesday, September 1, 2020 at his home with family by his side. Wayne fought a long and courageous battle with multiple myeloma. He was born September 29, 1946 in St. Joseph, MO, the son of George Henry and Mattie Louise (Shirley) Altenburg.

Wayne graduated from Holton High School in 1966. He proudly served in the United States Army in October 1966 and served in Vietnam. He was a life member of Holton VFW Post #1367 and American Legion Post 44.

Wayne married Geralin “Jo” Pfister on January 10, 1969 in Holton, KS. They shared over 51 years of marriage.

Wayne worked for General Foods-Quaker Oats in Topeka, KS for 19 years, Cargill Flour Milling, Topeka and Chesapeake Bagel Bakery, Topeka. Wayne served as a Correctional Officer for the Jackson County Detention Center in Holton, retiring after 10 years in April 2013.

 Wayne enjoyed hunting and fishing. He especially enjoyed time spent with his fishing buddies, Brad Butler and Ken Fink.

 Wayne’s grandchildren were all very special to him. He enjoyed their visits and nightly phone calls. 

Survivors include his wife, Geralin Altenburg of the home; son, Darin Altenburg (Kristi) of Holton, KS; daughter, Kimberly Jo Clark (Terry) of Holton, KS; 4 grandchildren, Taygen and Logan Altenburg and Xoe and Xavier Clark; 3 step-grandchildren, Katie Clark (Brian Fragoso), Dacey Clark and Ryon Clark; 2 step-great-grandchildren, Natali and Norah Fragoso. 2 sisters, Sarah Stokke of Valley Springs, SD and Dorothy Smith of Swansboro, NC; brother, Larry Shirley (Kathy) of St. Joseph, MO and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, George and Mattie Altenburg; sister, Barbara Simmons and 2 brothers, Richard and John Altenburg.

Cremation has taken place per Wayne’s wishes. Memorial Graveside Service with Military Honors will be 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, September 8, 2020 at the Holton Cemetery. Memorials may be given to the Holton Community Hospital Hospice or Heart of Jackson Humane Society or Holton V.F.W. Post 1367 c/o Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 270, Holton, KS 66436. Mercer Funeral Home in Holton is in charge of arrangements. To leave a special message for the family, please visit www.mercerfuneralhomes.com.