Obituary
Guest Book
Robert Atchison, Sr., 93, of Topeka, Kansas, passed away peacefully on November 11, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.
Robert was born on September 18, 1932, in Osage City, Kansas, the son of Hank and Florence (Gunterman) Atchison.
After proudly serving his country in the U.S. Army, Robert went on to build a lifelong career with Conroy Construction, where he worked for 50 years. His strong work ethic and dedication earned the respect and friendship of everyone who had the pleasure of working alongside him.
On February 26, 1955, Robert married the love of his life, Shirley Masters, in Burlingame, Kansas. Together they shared over 70 wonderful years of love, laughter, and devotion. Their marriage was a beautiful example of true partnership, and together they raised four children, Carolyn, Robert Jr., Steve, and Russell, who were the pride and joy of their lives.
Robert was an avid outdoorsman who found peace and happiness in nature. He loved camping, fishing, and especially setting lines for catfish. When he wasn’t outdoors, Robert enjoyed playing bingo and the card game pitch, often surrounded by friends and family. He also loved taking trips to Branson, Missouri, where he and Shirley made countless cherished memories over the years.
Robert is survived by his beloved wife, Shirley Atchison, of the home; daughter Carolyn (Chad) Bonczkowski of Topeka, Kansas; sons Steve Atchison of Grand Junction, Colorado, and Russell (Cathy) Atchison of Topeka, Kansas; grandchildren; Bobby, Beth, Sara, David, Jessica, Kayla, Corey, Brandi, and Cody; twenty-one great-grandchildren; and his brother Charles Atchison.
He was preceded in death by his son Robert Atchison, Jr.; his parents; brothers John Atchison and William Atchison; and sister Betty Reese.
A visitation will be held on Monday, November 17, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM at VanArsdale Funeral Chapel in Osage City, Kansas. A Funeral Service will take place on Tuesday, November 18, 2025, at 10:00 AM at The Federated Church in Burlingame, Kansas, with burial to follow at Burlingame Cemetery.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
107 N. 6th Street, Osage City, KS 66523

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read moreIf you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more