Robert (Bob) Allen Wagner passed away on the morning of Saturday April 3rd, 2021 at LMH Health in Lawrence, Kansas. Robert was born in Lawrence on October 19th, 1934 to Henry and Bernice Wagner and was the oldest of four children, Dale (d), Carol McCorkill (d) and Michael.
He married Sharon Dumas in 1956 and together they had two children, David (Kathy) and Tracy Hood (Joel) who survive in Lawrence. He is also survived by five grandchildren, Laura, Elizabeth Arndt (David), Robert (Caitlin), Jacob, and Sarah; and four great-grandchildren, Parker, Logan, Eloise, and Cooper.
Robert was a lifelong citizen of Lawrence. His early life was spent working on his father’s farms and running many of his father’s businesses. He attended Central Christian College in Bartlesville, Oklahoma and later the University of Kansas. Shortly after getting married, he was drafted into the Army where he served much of his duty at Fort Carson in Colorado Springs, Colorado. After completing his service he returned to Lawrence to run his father’s businesses and start a family. Eventually, Robert worked for the distribution center of AB Coker and in semi-retirement, worked for Brown and Williamson.
In his younger years, Robert was an outstanding bowler who was well known throughout the Lawrence bowling community. He was a long-time member of Trinity Lutheran Church of Lawrence. Robert had many talents and interests ranging from woodworking, reading, working with computers, and playing the organ. He also enjoyed spending time with fellow Lawrence High alumni. In retirement, he was dedicated to following his grandchildren at all of their recitals, athletic, and school events.
Robert, also known as Bob, Dad, Grandpa, and Papa, was dearly loved by his family and will be in their hearts forever.
The family will hold a private memorial in his honor and request that in lieu of flowers, contributions be made to the Lawrence Humane Society (https://lawrencehumane.org) or the Alzheimer’s Association (https://www.alz.org/).
Sharon, Tracy , David and family, I am so sorry to hear of Roberts passing. I remember him well from working with Sharon for so many years. And my husband Jim and his family remembers Robert from all the bowling leagues and trips they made together. God’s peace be upon you in this difficult time to honor your loved ones. I will make a donation to the Alzheimer’s Association on Bob’s behalf.
Sharon, Tracy, David and all those in the Wagner circle. Robert may have graduated in 1953 but he was claimed by the 1955ers as well! Robert added witty humor, stories with a message or laugh and music to the mix along with a twinkle in his eye. May the family know that he earned both respect and friendships of long standing with those who knew him. We will miss him and pray for the peace passing all understanding as we hold him in our memories. Eugenia Bryan and Leo Shaw.
Sharon, David, and Tracy…So sorry to hear about Robert. I have many fond memories of Robert and his kind patience wisdom. Please know that Maureen and I are keeping all of you in our prayers. May God’s peace comfort and keep you.
Sharon and family: Thinking of you during this time. Bob was such a calming presence and genuine human, he will be missed. He will live on through his grandchilderen and great grandchildren. Peace and hugs-Deb Drummet
Sharon, Tracy, David, and all, I visited with Laura not long ago and knew Robert was having issues. I am SO SORRY for your loss!! I loved his sense of humor and his sparkling eyes!!! His passing leaves a void that nothing can fill but may the memories help somewhat. He loved his family so very much!!! What a guy !!!!
Tracy, Joel, Jacob and Sarah – we are all heartbroken for you. May all of your wonderful memories of your father and grandfather be a comfort for you. Sending our prayers and condolences.
We are so sorry to read this Sharon. May he rest in peace. I remember his dad and all of his relatives and know he’s welcome in heaven by them. May God light shine upon you. Jim and Diana Rhodes
Sharon, we’ll remember Robert as a dear friend and always enjoyed talking with him. He was a good storyteller. We shared the enjoyment we got from playing our digital pianos. I admired his perserverence learning the great number of songs and his performing them for the enjoyment of other people. He was a good friend and we’ll miss him. Our condolences for all your and Robert’s family.
There are no words, but there is much love surrounding you and your family and in the memories of your loving Bob.