Marvin Puett

Marvin William Puett, age 100, passed away peacefully on April 13, 2026. He was born on January 20, 1926, in Topeka, KS to Paul William and Bertha Elizabeth Puett.

On November 25, 1943, Marvin married the love of his life, Elizabeth Ann Lamott. The night of their wedding, they went to the movies with two apples – all they could afford at the time. While one fell and rolled down the theater floor, they made the most of it as they did throughout their marriage which spanned 68 devoted years. Together, they raised their family - Marvin, Eldon, Ron and Kimberly - instilling in them enduring values of faith, love, hard work, and perseverance.

Marvin proudly served his country as a gunner in the United States Navy from 1944 to 1946. Following his time served, he began a long and dedicated career with the Santa Fe Railroad in Topeka, Kansas. Starting as a machinist apprentice, he worked his way through the ranks and retired in 1985 as Assistant Superintendent of Shops, something he was told he would never be able to do without a college education – a source of pride for him throughout his life. His strong work-ethic and leadership earned the respect of many colleagues.

While living in Topeka, Marvin was one of the founding members of Bethel Baptist Church, reflecting a lifelong devotion to God. His faith guided every aspect of his life, and he often shared his love for God with those around him.

Known for his remarkable self-sufficiency and craftsmanship, Marvin built almost every home he ever lived in, including the home he and Elizabeth retired to on Table Rock Lake. He spent many joyful years there staying active - water skiing, fishing, and golfing. In their later years, they moved to Republic, Missouri, where he spent the remainder of his life golfing, mowing his lawn, fixing anything that needed attention, and never missing an opportunity to visit a good buffet.

One of the few remaining World War II veterans, Marvin was honored to participate in the Honor Flight to Washington, D.C. in 2025, a deeply meaningful experience for him and his family.

Marvin was preceded in death by his wife, three sons, parents, and siblings: Mary and Harry. He is survived by his daughter, Kimberly Puett of Topeka, KS; daughters-in-law Connie Puett of Shawnee, KS, and Jeanna Puett of Topeka, KS; four grandchildren, Jason Puett (Elle) of Eden Prairie, MN, Robert Puett of Mobile, AL, Lindsay Peattie (Seth) of Leawood, KS, and Jamie Puett of Jeanerette, LA; eight great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren.

Marvin will be remembered for his unwavering faith, deep love for his family, strong character, humor and love of food. His century-long life was extremely well lived and he will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

A Celebration of Life will take place in Topeka later this summer. Those wishing to honor Marvin’s memory may do so with a donation to the Honor Flight Network in lieu of flowers.