John K. Donald

John K. Donald, 69, of Kansas City, Kansas, and formerly of Topeka, Kansas, passed away on April 20, 2026, at Aspen Health and Wellness in Overland Park, Kansas.

Visitation began at 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, April 28, at St. Gregory’s Catholic Church in Marysville. A funeral service followed at 3:00 p.m., with burial in St. Gregory’s Catholic Cemetery.

John was born January 22, 1957, in Topeka, Kansas, the son of Paul Donald and Carol (Johnson) Boles. He earned his GED and went on to work for Goodyear, where he was employed for 18 years, a job he truly enjoyed until his health no longer allowed him to continue.

In 2021, John began living with his daughter until later residing at Aspen Health and Wellness in Overland Park, Kansas, since 2023. While there, he formed many meaningful friendships and enjoyed the companionship of both residents and staff.

John had a deep appreciation for life’s simple joys. He loved playing bingo and Wii bowling at the nursing home and was especially fond of blackjack and trips to the casino. He enjoyed flowers and creating floral arrangements, and his favorite music included songs by Johnny Cash and David Bowie. He also enjoyed watching WWE SmackDown and spending time outdoors feeding birds, earning him the nickname “Bird Man #2.”

Family was very important to John. He loved attending gatherings with his son-in-law’s family and cherished time spent with his grandchildren, especially visiting his daughter and playing with his youngest grandchild. He also dearly loved his dog, Peanut, whom he enjoyed taking to the park to play ball.

John had a strong belief in God and attended church services when he was able, including services held at the nursing facility.

He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Jay Donald and Joe Donald; and his stepfather, Daryl Boles.

Survivors include his daughter, Breanna Gonzalez and husband, Luis Gonzalez of Kansas City, Kansas; two sons, Garrett Donald and Dylan Donald, both of Topeka, Kansas; one brother, Jeff Donald; one stepsister, Brenda Fenner; and one stepbrother, Brent Boles. He is also survived by three grandchildren, Alexandra, Kyleigh, and Elianna Gonzalez.

Pallbearers will be Luis Gonzalez, Jeff Donald, Brent Boles, Jordan Donald, and Jared Donald.

John will be remembered for his kind and generous spirit, his love for others, and the joy he found in everyday moments. He had a big, beautiful heart and made a lasting impact on those around him, especially the many friends and caregivers he came to know during his time at the nursing home.

Kinsley Mortuary was entrusted with the arrangements.