Obituary published on Legacy.com by Garnand Funeral Homes - Garden City on Feb. 6, 2025.
Robert Joseph Schiffelbein, known affectionately as Bob to his friends and family, passed away on January 23, 2025, in LaPorte, Texas. Born on November 26, 1952, in
Garden City, Kansas, Bob's 72 years of life were marked by a deep love for his family, a passion for the outdoors, and a commitment to his community.
Bob spent his formative years in Kansas, graduating from Holcomb High School in Holcomb, KS. After high school, he embarked on a life of hard work and dedication, farming for many years alongside his father and brothers. His work ethic was unmatched, and after retiring from farming in 1995, he continued to serve his community through various roles, including driving trucks, working for Inland Containers, assisting at Deerfield, KS schools, and delivering fuel.
Robert's personal life was filled with love and companionship. He first married Carol Merz in 1972, with whom he had three children. Their paths later diverged, and in 2003, Robert found love again and married Sondra Green-Owings in the city where he was born,
Garden City, KS. Together, they built a life filled with joy and laughter.
A man with a big heart, Bob cherished his family above all else. He is survived by his loving wife, Sondra Schiffelbein of LaPorte, TX, and his children: Amy (Richard) DeLaRosa of Eudora, KS, Jerry Schiffelbein (Kelly) of Colorado Springs, CO, Jeff Schiffelbein of Lawrence, KS, stepson Doug Owings (Nicole) of Fort Worth, TX, and stepdaughter Denise Jakob (Ethan) of LaPorte, TX. He was a proud grandfather to Trey Alford, Ellie DeLaRosa, Iliana Schiffelbein, Landon Schiffelbein, Jaxson Schiffelbein, Avery Schiffelbein, Faolan Jakob, Rowan Jakob, and Varric Jakob, and he cherished his great-granddaughter, Naveah Alford. Bob will also be remembered by his siblings, Phyllis Schiffelbein, Dora Roy (Rick), David Schiffelbein, Fred Schiffelbein (Diane), and Andrew Schiffelbein (Sandra). He was preceded in death by his parents, Cyril (Red) and Barbara Schiffelbein, and his grandparents, John and Kathrine Schiffelbein, Fred and DoraBelle Frisby, as well as Clyde and Delma Green, his in-laws, and his sister-in-law, Jeanette Schiffelbein.
Bob's zest for life extended beyond his work and family. He was an avid fan of the Houston Astros and the Kansas City Chiefs, and he found peace in nature, whether it was fishing, camping, or simply going to the beach to share French fries with the seagulls. His hands were rarely still, as he enjoyed making birdhouses, woodworking, and showcasing his crafts at various shows as a vendor. Bob also had a deep respect for veterans and an interest in war history, which he explored through his extensive reading. Robert Joseph Schiffelbein lived a life full of purpose and joy. He left an indelible mark on the lives of those who knew him, and his memory will be treasured by all. Bob's legacy is one of love, hard work, and a deep appreciation for the simple pleasures in life. He will be deeply missed, but his spirit will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know him.
A Memorial service for Robert will be held at Garnand Funeral Home on March 28, 2025, at a time to be determined. Additional funeral information will be announced at a later date.