Robert “Bob” Dean Hendricks, 86, of Kearney, passed away Wednesday, September 30, 2026, at Shirkey Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Richmond.Bob was born on January 2, 1940, in Elmira, the son of Alvie and Myrtle (Wormsley) Hendricks. He was first united in marriage to Peggy Norris of Rayville on August 19, 1961; to this union, their daughter, Traci, was born; they later divorced. He was later united in marriage to Roxey Hunziker of Wheatland in 1989; she preceded him in death.Survivors include: daughter, Traci (Carey) Hiatt of Kearney; grandson, Chandler Hiatt of Kearney; great-granddaughter, Harper Hiatt; two brothers, Donald (Jessica) Stockton of Joplin and Alvie Gene Hendricks of Rogers, AR; and three sisters: Nellie (John) Sheeham of Kansas City and Connie (Dave) Powell of Richmond, and Wilma Lavern (James) Horner of Bridge City, TX. Many other extended family members also survive.In addition to his parents and wife, Roxey, Bob was preceded in death by his grandson, Ashton Paige Hiatt, two brothers, Francis “Joe” Hendricks and John William “Johnnie” Stockton, and two sisters, Shirley (Clarence) Ellison and Eva Ramseyer.Bob was raised and educated in the area of his birth and graduated from Richmond High School. Always athletic and naturally competitive, Bob especially enjoyed running. His determination stayed with him throughout his life, and even at 60 years old, he could still run a quarter mile in under 60 seconds. His love of sports was something he later enjoyed sharing with his grandsons, whose activities he proudly followed and supported.Bob proudly served his country as a Mess Sergeant in the Army National Guard and Army Reserves. He loved to cook.Following his military service, Bob spent 30 years working for Ford Motor Company and was an active member of United Auto Workers Local #249. A hard worker by nature, Bob was determined, driven, and strong-willed. He generally knew how he wanted something done, and his “my way or the highway” personality meant he was not one to easily take no for an answer. When Bob gave you his word, he meant it. Whether it came with a pointed finger or a firm handshake, you knew where he stood and could count on what he said.For all of Bob’s determination and strong personality, family was at the heart of his life. He was a loving and devoted father and grandfather who treasured time spent with those closest to him. His daughter and his two grandsons meant the world to him, and he was immensely proud of them. He also loved animals, especially his dog, Finn. Bob never met a stranger, and whether you knew him for years or had only just met him, chances are you quickly learned exactly where you stood with him. He lived life with determination, worked hard for what he had, loved his family deeply, and remained unmistakably Bob through it all.The family suggests memorial contributions be made to the donor’s choice in memory of Bob. They can be left at or mailed to Thurman Funeral Home, 507 East Main Street-P.O. Box 190, Richmond, MO 64085.Visitation with funeral services will be held on Sunday, October 11, 2026, at Thurman Funeral Home in Richmond, with visitation beginning at 2:00 P.M., with services to follow at 3:00 P.M. Following services at the funeral home, the family invites you to join them for fellowship and refreshments at Branded Banquet Hall. Burial will be at a later date in Mount Olivet Cemetery, Kearney. Please remember to share your memories of Bob with the family by visiting www.thurmanfuneralhome.com.
Source: KMZU, The Farm
