Our precious friend Artie Cardwell-Gingrich-Conroy was born on January 14, 1950 and passed away on December 17, 2007.
 

Ardith Artie J. Conroy, 57, lost her battle against breast cancer on December 17, 2007. Artie was born January 14, 1950 in Belleville, KS to John and Neva (Trecek) Cardwell. She graduated from Highland Park High School and completed her Bachelor and Masters in Social Work at Washburn University. She was married to Scott Gingrich, had two sons, and later was married to Joe Conroy and had one son. Artie is survived by her sons, Jamie (Mary) Gingrich and their children, Nic and Caden, Topeka; Damien (Amy) Gingrich and their son, Jasper, Eudora, KS and Kyle Conroy, Topeka; her parents, John and Neva Cardwell, Seneca, KS; her brothers Rick (Diane) Cardwell, Ames, IA and Terry (Sherry) Cardwell, Seneca, KS; special nephews and niece Travis & Alyson, Tyler, Nick and Austin Cardwell. Artie was expecting two new grandchildren in the spring of 2008. Artie spent several years providing home daycare for many children who considered her a second mother. After completing her education she continued her passion in caring for children at The Farm, Inc. She also worked with SafeVisit at the YMCA. She was a recent recipient of the 2007 Heather Award in recognition of her dedication to making children a lifetime priority personally and professionally. Artie will be missed by many family and friends. Her unconditional love and dedication to her family was a role model for many. She dedicated her life and energy to helping others find joy and laughter. Her ability to bring a smile or find humor in any situation will be her legacy. Visitation will be Thursday, December 20 from 5 to 7 pm at Kevin Brennan Family Funeral Home, 2801 SW. Urish Rd, Topeka, KS 66614. Funeral Service will be Friday, December 21 at 10 am at the funeral home. Private inurnment will be at a later date. Memorial contributions can be made to TFI Family Services, for their work for children, or Susan G. Komen for the Cure Fund and sent in care of the funeral home.