Troy Jay Thaemert, 48, Manhattan, died Monday October 25, 2010 at Stoneybrook Nursing Home in Manhattan, Ks. 
 
He was born the first of five children to Allan and Mary Ann Thaemert on Jan.23, 1962 in Manhattan.   He was baptized at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Natoma, Ks.  He was confirmed in the Lutheran faith and attended schools in Manhattan.  He graduated from Manhattan High School with a standing ovation in 1981.  After graduating from Timbers School of Independent Living (Wichita, KS), Troy took great pride in living independently for many years in Manhattan and Natoma. The last several years of his life were spent in a progressive care home in Alton, KS where he enjoyed living and making good friends.
 
Surviving family members include his parents Allan and Mary Ann Thaemert of Natoma; 3 brothers Todd, Thomas and wife Krista, and James Thaemert all of Manhattan; one sister Becky Pancost and husband Jon of Lucas, KS; and 5 nieces and nephews Savannah, Reese, Sophie, Hari, and Lilyanna.
 
Although Troy had limitations stemming from cerebral palsy, his character and spirit were an inspiration to his family as well as the many people he befriended throughout his life. He excelled in patience, perseverance, kindness, gentleness, and love.  He enjoyed giving more than receiving.  His special enthusiasm for the holidays enhanced the enjoyment for the whole family and his friends. He enjoyed decorating his apartment for the Holidays and often left some of them up year round.  His favorite past time was talking to his family and friends on the telephone.  He loved country music, watching his favorite TV shows (Andy Griffith and Gun Smoke), cheering for K-State football and basketball, playing dice games, drinking Dr. Pepper, and treating his family to Pizza Hut pizza.
 
Troy’s Faith and his service/witness to the Lord were always an important part of his life.  His daily walk with God included prayer, music, church, Joel Osteen on TV, and collecting money for the Orphan Grain Train and pop tabs for the Ronald McDonald House.  The “Troy Thaemert Memorial Fund” has been established with United National Bank of Natoma as an ongoing means to serve the Lord and “touch” lives as Troy did in his journey through life.
 
A memorial service to celebrate Troy’s life will be held 10 am Saturday October 30, 2010 at Peace Lutheran Church of Natoma, KS.  Graveside service will follow at the Immanuel Lutheran Cemetery north of Natoma.  A luncheon will follow all services at Peace Lutheran Church in Natoma.  Visitation will be from 9 A.M. to 8 P.M. on Friday, October 29, 2010 at the Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary in Russell.  Family will be present to greet visitors from 6 PM to 8 PM Friday evening.  Contributions to the Troy Thaemert Memorial Fund and condolences may be sent in care of Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary of Russell who is in charge of these arrangements.  Condolences may also be sent via email by going to www.pvpmortuary.com.  Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary of Russell is in charge of the funeral services.