Robert Lee

Robert Collins "Rob" Lee

1954-2025

Robert Collins "Rob" Lee, a talented, generous, and creatively spirited soul, passed away on January 7, 2025, at Homestead Memory Care in Olathe, Kansas following complications from spinal surgery five months earlier. He was 70 years old.

Loved and known by all as Rob, his loyal friendship, indulgent compassion, and delightfully quirky humor will be deeply missed by his family and friends.

Survived by:

Cousins: Sallie Rudd (Kansas City), J. C. Collins, and Dixie Lynn

His beloved canine companions, Cody and Gypsy Rose Lee

He was preceded in death by his adoptive parents, Earl Scott Lee and Dorothy Jane Lee, lifelong residents of Liberty, Missouri.

Born and raised in Liberty, Missouri, Rob attended William Jewell College. He continued his training in cosmetology and began his career in the beauty industry as a salon owner and hairdresser.

Rob's early career included work as the Clairol color stylist at Swanson's Salon on the Country Club Plaza. In the 1980s, he purchased and operated Coiffeur Marc in the Plaza Point apartments for several years. He later moved his salon to a Hyde Park bed-and-breakfast and eventually worked from his home on Ward Parkway until September 2024.

Rob's flair for design extended beyond hair, he made his mark on local antiques and estate sales. At just 16, while his parents were away for two weeks, Rob staged a bold furniture "coup," replacing their Early American pieces with his more modern selections, a testament to his confidence, unique vision, and love for beautiful spaces.

With Estate Sales by Rob, he became a trusted manager for complex estate liquidations. His keen eye, honesty, and integrity earned him respect among appraisers and clients alike. Rob especially loved collecting sterling silver, and friends valued his creativity and discerning taste.

Clients often called him "the most expensive hairdresser in town". Not for his prices, but because he'd entice them with beautiful jewelry or home pieces from estate sales, making their appointments much more than just a haircut.

Music, travel, and bridge filled Rob's life with joy. Raised in churches where his mother played the organ, he developed an innate musical appreciation. He organized and led cruises, traveled with adventurous friends, adored musical theater, and could identify any Broadway tune at first listen. Flea markets and antique shops were his treasure troves while traveling. A dedicated bridge player, he competed in tournaments and earned the rank of Life Master.

Rob was a steadfast supporter of the Heartland Men's Chorus, one of his deepest passions. As a major donor, season-ticket holder, and advocate, he believed strongly in their mission to foster acceptance and advocate for LGBTQ+ rights through music.

His crisp wit, deadpan humor, boundless creativity, and kindness made a lasting impact on all who knew him.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Grand Street Cafe on Sunday, September 14th from 2p - 5p. A Celebration of Life will be held on September 14, 2025, from 02:00 PM to 05:00 PM at Grand Street Cafe 4740 Grand Avenue