Eric Menne
Smith Family Mortuaries, Derby, KS, Obituary
It is with great sadness that the family of Eric Charles Menne announce that Eric, 82, passed away at his home on Friday, January 17, 2025 after a heroic battle with cancer. He displayed both great courage and strength throughout his illness despite much suffering.
Eric was born on July 3, 1942 in Wichita, Kansas. He graduated from Wichita High School East in 1960, followed by
earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from Wichita State University. Eric went on to build a great 35-year career with Beech Aircraft Corporation before retiring as a group manager. He often said that work was his passion in life and that he loved the job and the people. With boundless energy, Eric continued with his strong work ethic by spending two years with Sino-Swearingen Aircraft Corporation in Victoria, Spain.
As to his faith in God, Eric said that in his later years he had grown to love the Lord God and his Son, Jesus Christ, whom he called his Lord and Savior. Eric believed strongly in giving towards the well-being of others, as demonstrated by his over 50-year involvement with the Shriners International organization. In retirement, his benevolence continued on full display by supporting numerous non-profit organizations such as Junior Achievement, Shriner Hospitals for Children, and veteran organizations. He found time for hobbies. Eric’s bowling prowess was demonstrated by achieving five perfect “300” games, as well as an “800” series. It was while in the bowling league in 2005 that Eric met Judy Gettle Thomas, whom he described as “The love of my life” and they spent nearly 20 years together.
Eric is survived by Judy Gettle Thomas; his daughters, Lesa Menne and Susan Beth Cooper (Jed); grandson, Kyle McColm (Brandie); granddaughter, MacKenzie Cooper; great-grandson, Ryder McColm; brother, Alan Menne (Cathy); sister, Emily (Menne) Shaw. Eric was preceded in death by his parents, Howard Charles and Mary Louise Menne.
In lieu of flowers, Eric asked that donations be made to Shriner’s Hospital for Children. A celebration of life for family and friends of Eric will be announced at a later date.
Editor’s Note: Smith Mortuaries maintains an online Tribute Book for Eric Menne. You can write your memories of Eric and read notes from others. Feel free to share memories of Eric in the Comments section below.
