Robert Lee Ross

Robert Lee Ross passed away Sunday, May 10, 2015 at his home in Plainville, Kansas at the age of 78. He was born on September 19, 1936 in Webster, Kansas to the late Emmett Ross, Sr. and Julia (Smith) Ross. He grew up in Rooks County, Kansas and graduated from Stockton High School with the Class of 1954. He was united in marriage to Kenda Sue Hrabe on February 27, 1971 in Plainville. Robert, or “Barbwire Bob” as he was known in certain circles, or “Backhoe Bob” in other circles, was a man full of life, knowledge, love, and wisdom. He loved being outside. Whether he was doing dirt work, fishing, or gardening, life happened outside in the open air of God’s creation where he could live, work, breathe, and have fun. Always smiling, there wasn’t a job he couldn’t handle or problem he couldn’t solve. A good friend and neighbor, he was kind and willing to give the shirt off of his back to anyone needing it. Robert is survived by his wife Kenda Ross of the home; children Dennis Ross and wife Tami of Lowell, AR, Mike Ross and wife Sandra of Elm Springs, AR, and Michelle Graham of Hindsville, AR; step-children James Burkholder, Sr. and wife Gayla of Olathe, CO, and Hayley Hummel and husband Jeff of Owasso, OK; siblings Olive McReynolds and husband Herbert of Osborne, Marla Goodman and husband Clyde of Fort Worth, TX, and John Ross of Hays; sisters-in-law Kathy Brady of Atchison, and Kayla McDougall of Topeka; twelve grandchildren; seventeen great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents Emmett, Sr. and Julia Ross, and brothers Emmett, Jr. and Jack Ross. Robert leaves a legacy of faith, hard work, and love for his family and friends. Although we are sad because he has left his home on earth, we rejoice as he enters his new home in heaven to the place his Lord has prepared for him. Truly, what a day of rejoicing it is!