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Robert Nelson, Sr
1932 - 2026
UPCOMING SERVICE
Robert Nelson, Sr Obituary
Robert D. Nelson, Sr., age 93, passed away peacefully on February 20, 2026, in Bucklin, Kansas. He was born on November 30, 1932, in Merwin, Missouri, and grew up in Pittsburg, KS. Robert lived a full and impactful life marked by dedication to his family, community, and faith.
Robert pursued higher education with determination and excellence. He earned an Animal Science degree from Kansas State University in Manhattan, Kansas, after completing his academic journey at Washburn University in Topeka, Kansas, where he obtained his Law Degree. He practiced law in Topeka for several years before moving to Ford, Ks then taking a job at Ford County Feed Lot.
A proud veteran of the United States Army, Robert served as a paratrooper during the Korean War. His service to his country extended beyond active duty; he was deeply involved with his local Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) chapter, where he served as President for several years. In this role, he honored countless fellow veterans by performing hundreds of military funerals-a testament to his unwavering respect for those who served.
Robert's work ethic was unparalleled. Even into his late 80s, he could be found operating heavy equipment. His love for animals was evident throughout his life; he had a special fondness for horses and cherished the companionship of his beloved dog Frankie.
Faith played a central role in Robert's life. He was an active member of the Ford Community Church and participated enthusiastically in Promise Keepers Christian Conferences over the years with family and friends. His commitment to both spiritual growth and community involvement left a lasting impression on those who knew him.
Robert is survived by a loving family that includes his son Robert Jr. of Wisconsin; daughters Deby Warmack of Kentucky and Barbara Bontrager of Kansas; stepdaughter Cheri Armstrong of Texas and stepson Chris Meyer of Iowa; as well as numerous granddaughters, grandsons, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and an extensive extended family who will cherish his memory.
He was preceded in death by his wife Beverly Nelson, stepdaughter Shirley Rae Meyer-Heibsch, stepson, Scott Meyer, Kansas, sisters Judy Leftwich of Kansas, Shirley Jean Modlin of California and first wife, Nancy Turner Nelson, Kansas.
May his memory bring comfort to all who were blessed to know him. A Celebration of Life will be held on February 28, 2026, at 11:00 AM at Ford Community Church 701 Main St, Ford, KS. A lunch will follow the service at Ford Community Church Annex.
In lieu of flowers, we request that donations be made to Ford Community Church in Ford, KS
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3 Entries
Mary Sanko
Earlier today
Bob was a long time friend. We worked together at the VFW. He always had to come and say hello when at the "V". I always appreciated that. My thoughts and prayers are with his family.
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VFW Post 1714
Earlier today
Bob was a long time life member of our VFW Post. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family.
CHRISTOPHER J MEYER
Yesterday
Robert Nelson he's the one that taught me how to be a hard worker on my life I remember him teaching me a lot of stuff like cutting wood, how to weld, how to sandblast, put up fences, and and how to be a hard worker, he's the one that encouraged me to get my first job as a dishwasher when I was only 14 years old. I know I didn't get to get down there to see him very much after my mom passed away and that's what sucks when you live long ways from somebody I did call him a few times probably not as much as I should have my job always had me busy working all the time. He was a good man he married my mom they moved to Ford Kansas lived there for a long time when I was in trouble times I came and lived with them and and they took care of me till I got on my feet got me a job working on the DCF and B Railroad cuz they were friends when somebody was a boss on the road I got that job worked hard but I like hard work Bob honed me into that kind of person well I think I babbled on long enough Robert Nelson may you rest in peace thank you for making me who I am today
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