Ruford DePriest, 71, Topeka, passed away Monday, April 24, 2017.
Rus was born July 14, 1945, in Chandler, Ariz., the son of James and Juanita (Woodring) DePriest. He attended Washburn University, Topeka, and the University of Kansas, Lawrence.
Rus spent 25 years in New York City as an actor, writer and manager of the Village Gate Restaurant, etc., in Greenwich Village, and the co-owner of The Cherokee Phoenix Restaurant, etc., in New York City.
He was very gifted. His talents included carpentry and construction and gardening. He loved sports, especially baseball. As a youth he played baseball for Iola teams.
Survivors are: life mate, Wanda Pittman; his children Sherry DePriest, Donald (Debbie) DePriest, Mark (Melissa) DePriest and Renee Masters; and grandchildren, Sierra, Markus, Brett and Ashley.
Survivors also include brothers James (Judith) DePriest, Camdenton, Mo., Ted (Karin) DePriest, Chehalis, Wash., Michael DePriest, Wichita, and Larry (Paula) DePriest, Ashland, Va.; a sister, Jacqueline Koester, Iola; and nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Juanita DePriest; and a brother, Phillip David DePriest.
Cremation internment will be at Burlingame Cemetery in Burlingame.
Rus will be dearly missed by family and friends. Our joy is in the hope and confidence that one day we will see Rus again, when the Lord calls us home. The home awaits for all that love and believe in Jesus Christ as Savior and King.
Ruford DePriest
