Robert Bruce Pears Sr., 91, of Springfield, Missouri, passed away on August 26, 2026. He was born on May 5, 1935, in Clay Center, Kansas, to William and Melissa Annie Pears.
Robert met the love of his life, Mary Katherine Farmer, in 1957 at Strick’s Restaurant. The two were married on January 1, 1967, beginning a devoted marriage filled with family, faith, hard work, and many cherished memories.
A hardworking and enterprising man, Robert owned and operated Dairyland in the mid-1960s. He later became the owner and operator of Strick’s Restaurant, the very place where he and Mary had first met. Robert operated the restaurant from 1970 until 1991, becoming a familiar and welcoming presence to many in the community. Robert also worked for Hallmark Cards of Lawrence KS after 1991, and in Springfield MO employed by Heimos Greenhouses from 2012 – 2023.
Robert was a good Christian man whose faith was an important part of his life. He was a member of Grace Assembly in Springfield, Missouri, and was a former member of Clinton Parkway Assembly of God in Lawrence, Kansas. His faith, love for his family, and kindness toward others were reflected throughout his life.
Robert was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Mary K. Pears; his parents, William and Melissa Annie Pears; his brothers, Bruce, Dean, and Howard Pears; and his sisters, Wilma (Eldon) Anderson, Nellie (Gerald) Tesburen, and Barbara (Dick) Simpkins. He was also preceded in death by several nieces and nephews.
Robert leaves behind a loving family who will carry his memory forward. He is survived by his sons, William (Deborah) Pears of Nixa, Missouri; Robert Pears Jr. of Springfield, Missouri; James Pears (Ken Haymes) of Springfield, Missouri; and Daniel (Alanna) Pears of Jefferson City, Missouri; and his daughter, Nancy Pears of Springfield, Missouri.
He is also survived by his grandchildren, Jake (Kelly) Medford and Jacob Pears; granddaughter, Kayleigh Pears; and great-grandchild, Addison Medford, along with several nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.
Robert will be remembered for his strong faith, devotion to his family, entrepreneurial spirit, years of hard work, and the many lives he touched throughout his long and meaningful life. His memory will remain a cherished part of the family and community he loved.
“Well done, good and faithful servant.” — Matthew 25:23
Visitation
Rumsey – Yost Funeral Home 601 Indiana St. Lawrence, KS 66044
Visitation Friday, September 4, 2026, 5:00 – 7:00 PM,
Memorials
Rumsey – Yost Funeral Home 601 Indiana St. Lawrence, KS 66044
Funeral Saturday, September 5, 2026, 10:00 AM
Grave Side to follow at Winchester, KS
Grace Assembly of God 500 W. Mt Vernon Springfield, MO 65806
Celebration of life Thursday, September 17, 2026, 6:00 PM
Memorial Contributions
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in honor of Robert Pears to the American Heart Association and sent in care of:
Rumsey-Yost Funeral Home
P.O. Box 1260
Lawrence, KS 66044
