Donald Eugene "Pappy" Papst

Donald Eugene Papst, known as (Pappy), passed away on February 28, 2024, at his home, at the age of 81. He was born on September 20, 1942, in Wea, Kansas, to Ella Marie (Papst) Elsten in a little white house in the country. Don moved to Chanute at the age of 15. 

Pappy, as he was fondly called, had a zest for life. He planted enormous gardens and had a deep passion for KU basketball and the Kansas City Chiefs. He loved playing and coaching men's slow-pitch softball, even having his team named the Coliseum, which he successfully coached. The Coliseum, located on Malcolm Ave, was not only his business but was the place to go have fun and a place where he brought numerous rock 'n' roll bands to Chanute for entertainment. He cherished meeting and befriending everyone he encountered. Pappy owned and operated the Coliseum from 1973 to 1980.

Don was also a production manager at NuWa Campers until he retired at the age of 55 due to health issues.

Pappy met the love of his life years ago, but it wasn’t until they reunited 30 years later that the sparks flew, and they began life together. 

He is survived by his life mate, Glenda Hubble, of the home, his son Kevin Wayne Greene of Annandale, MN, and his Godson Blaine Gardner of Chanute, KS. Donald is also survived by his brother George Elsten of Scottsbluff, NE, and his sisters Linda Schanaman, of San Tan Valley, AZ, Roseana Schmitt of Duncan, OK, and Nancy Duran and Loretta Elsten of Douglas, WY. He is preceded in death by his son, Kyle Greene.

Donald's educational journey included attending St. Patrick's Catholic School and Chanute Senior High School.

After receiving his education Pappy served his country in the United States Army. 

In honor of Donald's memory, contributions can be made to St. Patrick's Catholic School or the Wounded Warrior Project.

A visitation will be held from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. Tuesday, March 5, 2024, at Wickham Family Funeral Home 500 North Forest Ave. Chanute, Kansas 66720. Rosary will be recited Wednesday, March 6, 2024, at 9:30 a.m. at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, Chanute, KS, followed by Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 a.m. Interment will take place following the Mass at St. Patrick’s Catholic cemetery. The Chanute Honor Guard will present Military Honors. 

May Donald Eugene Papst's legacy of love for sports, music, and friendships live on in the hearts of those who knew him.

Services are under the guidance of Wickham Family Funeral Home 500 North Forest Ave. Chanute, KS 66720