Latest News Services to be Held for Robert E. Duffens By Staff Friday, February 26, 2016 12:18 AM Robert E. Duffens. TOPEKA, Kan.—Optical laboratory pioneer Robert E. Duffens of Topeka passed away February 23 at age 92. Duffens was born Jan. 19, 1924, in Salina, Kansas to Robert F. and Lena Duffens. He was educated at Washburn University where he was a member of Kappa Sigma fraternity and graduated in 1947. Prior to graduation, Duffens served as a carrier pilot in the U.S. Navy as a Lieutenant JG. His love of flying continued in the Navy Reserves and privately with business and personal trips.Duffens devoted over 40 years to Duffens Optical and Duffens Contact Lens companies. He was both an inventor and innovator in the optical industry. He served as president of the Optical Wholesalers Association and was inducted as a charter member of the Optical Pioneers.In addition to his business efforts, he was an active philanthropist , supporting many causes including Washburn University where he received an Honorary Doctor of Commerce.Duffens is survived by his wife Melva Jean Duffens, sons Gary Duffens (Mary) of Highlands Ranch, Colo. and Greg Duffens (Jane) of Topeka, his daughter Carol Puckett (Thomas) of Rancho Santa Fe, Calif., four grandchildren and nine great grandchildren, and his devoted Shih-Tzu, Jake.Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Friday, March 4 at Mount Hope Cemetery & Funeral Chapel, 4700 SW 17th Street, Topeka, Kansas, where the family will receive guests one hour prior to the service. Entombment will follow. To leave a message for the family online, visit www.PenwellGabelTopeka.com.