William Todd Stokes

William Todd Stokes, known affectionately as Todd, age 59, of Cawker City, passed away on May 11, 2024, in Topeka, leaving behind a legacy marked by hard work, dedication, and love for family and community. He was born on August 12, 1964, in Memphis, Tennessee. Todd lived in Jonesboro, Arkansas until moving to Cawker City, Kansas in 1992 where he lived until his passing.

Todd's journey began in the United States Army, where he served as a light wheel vehicle and power generation mechanic from 1982 to 1987, achieving the rank of Specialist. His dedication and service were recognized with several prestigious awards, including the Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, Good Conduct Medal, Drivers Badge, and Sharpshooter Badge.

After his military service, Todd embarked on a fulfilling career journey. He worked for Best Manufacturing before transitioning to Sunflower after an acquisition. His professional path eventually led him to Great Plains. However, Todd's true passion began when he and his beloved wife Robin purchased the Wagon Wheel in 1997. Together, they transformed it into a renowned bar and grill in Cawker City. Todd's friendly demeanor behind the bar made him a familiar face to all patrons while Robin's culinary skills made their establishment famous for the best chicken fried steak around. While in between Sunflower and Great Plains, Todd worked for Blue Hill Hatchery and Game Birds.

Outside of work, Todd embraced life with an adventurous spirit. A lover of the outdoors, he enjoyed hunting, fishing, gardening, and traveling. His outgoing personality endeared him to all who crossed his path.

In addition to his loving wife Robin, Todd is survived by his kids Darren (Megan), Justin, Charles, Crystal (Deric), Stacy (Mike), Steven, and Christina; grandchildren Devin, Destiny, Ashton, Ally, Colin, Dalton, Candice, Hayley, Keelin, Decklyn; great-grandchildren Brielle, Chiron, Attley; Mother Maxine R Stokes; sister Pam Wagner; and brother-in-law Nathanael Wagner. Todd was preceded in death by his father Royal Stokes and sister Kimberly Stokes.

A ceremony to celebrate Todd's life will take place on Thursday, May 16, 2024, at 10:30 am at the Cawker City Methodist Church followed by interment at Prairie Grove Cemetery in Cawker City. Memorials may be made to American Legion Post 379 in care of Schoen Funeral Home And Monuments 1001 Morgan Ave. Downs, KS 67437.

In honoring William Todd Stokes' memory today as we mourn his passing but also celebrate the impact he had on all those around him - family or stranger alike - we can find comfort in knowing that his legacy will live on through the memories he created and the lives he touched.