Edward Kyler 'Ted' Vopat

     Larger than life: there is perhaps no better way to describe Edward Kyler Vopat, 36, of Wichita, Kan., known to most as Ted, Teddy, Tedward, and many other names. Ted died Saturday, June 17, 2017 following a courageous bout with cancer. Ted was born Oct. 4, 1980, in Wichita. He graduated in 1999 from Bishop Carroll Catholic High School and earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology in 2004 from Bethany College.
     He married Ashley Martin on
Nov. 3, 2012. The couple has two daughters, Gracie and Bella and oneson, Kyler “Kiki”, who were Ted’s greatest sources of pride and joy.
     Ted’s caring, selfless nature led him to start his career in social work where he served his community as a valued member of the Salvation Army, Wichita Children’s Home and the Mid-Kansas Community Action Program. A natural math whiz and avid card player, Ted then took a job at the Kansas Star Casino as a Dealer and Floor Supervisor. His quick wit, sense of humor and gregarious personality ensured that he made friends everywhere he went, so many of whom ranked Ted as their best friend. We will remember him for his smile, his story telling and his karaoke skills, but most of all for his overwhelming generosity of spirit. He enjoyed grilling, card games, college football and all sports. His loyalty to the things and people he loved was unmatched. Ted’s qualities and infectious spirit were apparent from the start, so it is understandable that his wife asked him on their first date “what are you doing for the rest of your life? Ted was preceded in death by his grandparents, Frank and Marie Vopat. In addition to his wife and children, Ted is survived by his parents, Frank E. and Barbara Vopat; brother, Frank Vincent (Misty) Vopat; sister, Maria (Matt) Shadid; parents-in-law, Dwayne and Cindi Martin; brother-in-law, Matt (Amy) Martin; aunt/godmother, Joanne Stein; aunt Catherine (John) Braunreiter; niece/goddaughter, Amelia Vopat; nephew/godson, Jack Vopat; numerous cousins, other relatives and friends.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   
    A Rosary will be conducted at 7 p.m. Tuesday June 20, and a Mass in celebration of Ted’s life at 10 a.m. Wednesday June 21, both at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church.
Downing and Lahey Mortuary West of Wichita is in charge of arrangements.
     In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate contributions to the Ted Vopat Childrens’ Education Fund at P.O. Box 75321, Wichita, Kan. 67275.