Robert (Bob) Leon Wilson, 91, went home to be with the Lord on February 6th, 2023 at the homestead of his daughter and grandchildren in Mexico NY. Bob was born March 26, 1931 in Hutchinson, Kansas to Thomas Edgar and Goldie Gladys (Keller) Wilson. He was a lifetime congregant, longtime Trustee, choir member and volunteer for First Church of the Nazarene. Bob enlisted in the US Navy in 1948 and upon his Honorable Discharge he was recognized for Good Conduct and Navy Occupation as well as Korean, China and United Nations Service. He was a member of the American Legion Post #68. Bob married Emily Rozan Hendrickson in San Diego, California on May 10th, 1952 and reveled in marital bliss with his Bride for over 69 years. To this union was born four children.
Upon returning to Hutchinson following military service, Bob worked at Cessna for 36 years, ending his career as a Supervisor. In ‘retirement’ he ministered to the bereaved for over 21 years through his employment with Penwell-Gable Funeral Home. Additionally, Bob owned and operated a wench truck and tree service businesses. Bob played just as hard as he worked. The Wilsons enjoyed weekends and summer vacations of camping, water skiing, and fishing both locally and across various states, often with extended family. Bob and his wife were also avid antique and collectable hobbyists and trips always included stops at historical sites, shops, auctions and old barns. The couple continued to travel and adventure to visit family, friends as well as new destinations as long as they were able.
Bob relocated to NY following the death of his wife, surrounded by the love and activity of family and new friends. He quickly became a surrogate Dad and Papa to many and a favorite patient of his amazing care team. Bob spent his final days expressing gratitude, sharing stories, and singing his favorite songs.
He is preceded in death by his parents; wife; two sons, Robert L. Wilson Jr. and James W. Wilson; sister, Bertha Randalls; and brother, Thomas Wilson.
Bob is survived by his son, Mark Wilson of Hutchinson, KS; daughter, Christina Wilson of Mexico, NY; daughter-in-law Susan Wilson of Ozora, MO; brother LeRoy (Betty) Wilson of Denair, CA; nine grandchildren, Danielle (James) Wegener of Manitou Springs, CO; Jay (Talitha) Wilson of New Offenburg, MO; Thomas Wilson of Ketchikan, AK; Sarah (Brad) Vaeth of Ozora, MO; Benjamin Frasier of Brooklyn, NY; Nicholas Frasier of Broomfield, CO; Brandon Barker of Sapulpa, OK; Jacob Frasier of Niagara Falls, NY; Grace Frasier of Mexico NY; and four great-grandchildren, Sage Wegener; Jaiden Wilson; and Kynnadie Rose and Brooklyn Weibrecht.
Cremation has taken place through Harter Funeral Home in Mexico, NY. Family and friends will be greeted at First Church of the Nazarene, 4290 N. Monroe St., Hutchinson, KS 67502, from 9:30 A.M. to 11:00 A.M. on Thursday, February 16th, 2023 with funeral services at 11:30 A.M. Burial will immediately follow at Fairlawn Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to First Church of the Nazarene or Hospice of CNY in care of Hutchinson Funeral Chapel, 300 E. 30TH Ave, Hutchinson, KS 67502