Robert “Bob” Ray Howard, 80, of Onaga, Kansas, passed away on June 29, 2025, due to heart complications at the Topeka Veterans Administration -Hospice. Born on August 8, 1944, in Avon, Illinois, to William and Alice Howard, Bob lived a life full of adventure.
From a young age, Bob’s adventurous spirit took him out west, where he began working on cattle ranches in Wyoming at just 15 years old. It was during these formative years that he discovered his passion for horses and the rugged western lifestyle. In 1963, Bob joined the Army, where he would meet the love of his life, Sigrid, while stationed in Germany. Their love story blossomed, leading to their marriage in 1967 in Galesburg, Illinois, as Sigrid bravely followed him to the United States.
After completing his active duty, Bob continued to serve in the Army National Guard as an Infantryman, Reenlistment Non-Commissioned Officer, and Combat Engineer at MATES in Ft. Riley, Kansas. Following his military service, he transitioned to a career in construction, where he worked diligently until his retirement. However, retirement was never truly in Bob’s vocabulary; his commitment to his community shone through as he volunteered as a firefighter and provided transportation for residents from the local Onega nursing home. Even in retirement, he continued to lend a helping hand, mowing lawns until his death.
Bob and Sigrid built a life together, raising four children. He cherished moments spent fishing, even when the fish weren’t biting, and had a particular fondness for watching westerns. Known for his wit and humor, Bob often shared his favorite saying, “Work Smarter, not Harder,” and he was never short on stories or jokes to entertain those around him.
Bob is preceded in death by his parents, William and Alice Howard; his brother, Chester; his sisters, Karen and Kathy; and his beloved sons, Christopher, Eric, and Robert (Jr.) Howard. He is survived by his devoted wife of 57 years, Sigrid; his daughter Christina and son-in-law Monte Iverson; his son Stephan Howard; and his daughter Ingrid and son-in-law Robert Rucinski. He also leaves his grandchildren, Chris McIntire, Jessica Rucinski, Gavin and Kyle Iverson, Sarah and her husband Caleb Galbraith, and his great-grandson, Donovan.
The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at the Topeka Veterans Administration for their compassionate care and support during Bob’s final days. In lieu of flowers, they kindly request that donations be made to the Eastern Kansas Topeka Veterans Administration-Hospice.
A Celebration of Life will be held on August 8, 2025, from 6 to 8 PM at the Onega Senior Center, coinciding with what would have been Bob’s 81st birthday. All are welcome to join the family in sharing laughter, stories, and cherished memories of a man who touched the lives of so many.
Bob will be deeply missed, but his spirit will forever live on in the hearts of those who loved him.
