Merti Richter

   Merti O. (Miller) Richter, 64, of Topeka, passed away on Saturday (October 28, 2023) in her home after a courageous two year battle with glioblastoma.

   Born December 12, 1958 in Westmoreland, Kansas, Merti was the daughter of Arthur and Frances (Heustis) Miller.  She was a graduate of Wabaunsee High School and had worked at Rubottom Pharmacy and later as the Secretary at the Alma Grade School.  Merti retired in 2020 from the Kansas Lottery.  She also had a passion for photography and had photographed several weddings and many school portraits for students in Alma.

   She enjoyed sewing and reading and was an avid gardener. She was known for starting many other new plants from a portion or seed from another plant.  In February 2021, nine months prior to her diagnosis and up to the time of her surgery, Merti discovered a talent for drawing which is now believed to be related to the growth of the tumor she had.

   For the last 20 years, Merti shared her life with her partner, Nick Reilly.

   Survivors include her partner, Nick Reilly; a son, Brock Richter (Michele) of San Diego, CA ; a daughter, Courtney Digby (Jonathan) of Little Rock, AR; ten grandchildren, Harrison Digby, Sidney Digby, Madison Richter, Grady Richter, Isaac Reilly, Slayde Desch, Kain Reilly, Scarlett Lewis, Violett Lewis and Walker Lewis;  two brothers, Craig Miller (Pam) of Topeka, KS  and Brent Miller (Amy) of Alma, KS; a sister, Mimi Smith (Cletus) of Topeka, KS; a sister in law, Marie Miller of McFarland, KS; and several nieces and nephews.

   Merti was preceded in death by her parents; a brother, JayDee Miller; and a sister, Darla Furrer.

   Funeral services will be held Saturday morning (November 4, 2023) at 10:30 at Peace United Church of Christ in Alma with Pastor Julia Gaughan officiating.  Burial will be in Fairview Cemetery near Alma.

   Visitation will be Friday evening from 5:00 to 7:00 at Peace United Church of Christ in Alma.

   Memorials contributions are requested to Operation Underground Railroad and may be left with Campanella & Stewart Funeral Home, P. O. Box 48, Wamego, KS 66547.

   Online condolences may be sent to www.campanellastewart.com