Dr. Robert Laing

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Dr. Robert Laing, a cherished member of the Bonner Springs community, who peacefully departed on Friday, November 21, 2025, at the age of 88, in his home. A memorial service to celebrate his remarkable life will be held at 2:00 PM on Saturday, December 6, at the Lake of the Forest Clubhouse in Bonner Springs, Kansas.

Born on September 30, 1937, in Kansas City, Kansas, Robert was the eldest of two children to Maurice and Elsie Laing. He spent his formative years in the serene Lake of the Forest community, graduating from Bonner Springs High School in 1955. His dedication to education led him to Park College and the University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC) before he earned his medical degree from Loyola Medical School in Chicago, Illinois. He completed his residency at the University of Kansas Medical Center, solidifying his foundation in healing.

Dr. Laing honorably served his country as a Captain in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam era, stationed as a physician in Wichita Falls, Texas. Following his military service, he dedicated over four decades to the medical field, practicing at both Providence Medical Center and Bethany Medical Center. A trailblazer in his profession, he was recognized as the first gastroenterologist in the greater Kansas City area. His leadership extended to serving as Chief of Staff at Providence and heading the drug and alcohol rehabilitation center at Bethany Hospital, leaving an indelible mark on patient care and community health.

Bob had strong faith in his Lord, Jesus Christ. He served his Lord by leading Bible studies and Memorize the Word. He was actively involved in his church where he served as a deacon at Stony Point Christian Church and Open Door Baptist Church both in Kansas City, Kansas and was also involved in the Navigators organization.

Bob loved his family. He married his high school sweetheart, Norma Jean Howard. Together, they built a beautiful life and raised their family in Bonner Springs. Family was paramount to Bob. He spent countless hours with his wife, children and grandchildren competitively playing games and cards, sitting around the dinner table engaged in lively conversation, swimming in the family pool, and working in the yard. He cherished family travels, particularly enjoying Palm Springs, California, and the beaches of North Carolina. Bob had a special love and closeness with his nephews and nieces. Many of them considered him their second father. He loved people and always welcomed everyone into his and Norma's home. His family can't remember Bob ever saying a negative word about anyone.

Bob had many hobbies and passions. He loved sports. From being the Bonner Springs High School quarterback, to playing hockey on the frozen lake at Lake of the Forest, and playing thousands of rounds of golf with friends and family, he loved playing sports. He also loved watching sports. He was an avid Chiefs and KU fan and never missed a game. He attended almost every sporting event his children and grandchildren ever played. He loved photography and set up a dark room in his garage. When visiting the ocean he loved deep-sea fishing and spent hours combing the shore for specific shells. He liked working with his hands. He enjoyed building model sailboats and even put a car together with his best friend.

Dr. Laing was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his beloved wife of 69 years, Norma Jean, of the home, and their four devoted children: Bob Laing Jr. and his significant other Jennifer Cloud of Bonner Springs; Sheryl Laing of Bonner Springs; Julie Holland and her husband Rob of Kansas City, Missouri; and Rich Laing and his wife Kristi of Bonner Springs. One sister Karen Gasper and her husband Jim of Bonner Springs. He also leaves behind nine cherished grandchildren: Lauren Laing, Ryan Holland, Alec Holland, Austin Laing, Luke Holland, Jake Laing, Hannah Holland, Brandon Laing, and Jax Holland, along with five beloved great-grandchildren: Luca, Cal, August, Remi, and Mac.

Dr. Robert Lang will be remembered as a dedicated physician, a loving family man, and a vibrant member of his community whose legacy of service and kindness will continue to inspire.