Kay Ellen Oliver Obituary (1963 - 2025)

Kay Oliver, age 61, passed away peacefully on August 2, 2025, at a long-term care facility in Topeka, Kansas. Born on September 24, 1963, in Concordia, Kansas, Kay was the beloved daughter of the late William Edgar Gieswein and Eileen Gieswein. She spent her final years as a resident of Tanglewood Health and Rehabilitation in Topeka, where she was cared for with great compassion and dignity. Kay was a proud graduate of Brown Mackie College in downtown Salina, where she earned her Associate Degree in Office Secretary studies in May of 1984. Her commitment to education and lifelong learning extended beyond her own studies. She worked at AMPRA — the American Medical Peer Review Association — and later found joy and purpose serving as a substitute teacher in several Kansas school districts, including USD 336 Holton, USD 337 Royal Valley, and USD 335 Jackson Heights. Kay was cherished by both students and fellow teachers alike for her kind spirit, patient guidance, and unwavering dedication. She was formerly married to Don Oliver and is survived by their loving son, Jared Oliver, his wife Asia, and their sons, Zane Oliver and Kriss Clagett. Kay also has one beloved granddaughter, Madyson Nelson. She loved and cherished all of her grandkids. In addition to her biological family, Kay was deeply loved by her spiritual family — especially Kimmie Oliver and the children she lovingly claimed as her own in her final years. These include Mikel Runnels, Aleah (Gary) Stone, Hannah Oliver, and Jessica Elliott and her family: Joey, Jasper, Jo-Jo, and Joy. Kay embraced them all as her children and grandchildren, and they brought tremendous meaning and happiness to her life. She especially loved coming over for cookouts and spending time with family. One of her favorite traditions was going to China Pavilion to enjoy a meal and laughter with those she loved most. She is also survived by her sister, Kathy Bodnar of Aurora, Colorado; her brother, Dr. Kirk (Claudia) Gieswein of Coralville, Iowa; her niece, Kendra (Jennifer) Bodnar; her nephew, Joel (Jessica) Gieswein; and her niece, Allison Gieswein. Kay often expressed deep gratitude and love for Asia, saying: “Thank you for being the daughter I never had and for helping me through these 11 years. You were my guardian angel. If it wasn’t for you constantly being there for me through the hard times, I wouldn’t have made it. Thank you for everything. You’re an amazing woman and mother. I’m always here with you. Love you all.” A private family remembrance will be held at a later date.