Robert Clarence “Bob” Hertel, 80, passed away peacefully April 30, 2024, at Medicalodges of Great Bend, Great Bend, Kan. He was born on July 9, 1943, in Hays, Kan., to William and Regina (Sander) Hertel.

Robert was a student at St. Rose Catholic School and was in the Great Bend High School graduating Class of 1962. He furthered his education at Fort Hays State University and graduated in 1966, obtaining a Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Arts. He was a member of Prince of Peace at St. Patrick Catholic Church. His military career took him to Germany from 1967 to 1970, where he proudly served during the Vietnam War Era. Robert worked as an Engineer Draftsman for Ruskin Manufacturing in Great Bend and Grandview, Mo., before retiring in 1990. In his personal time, he enjoyed woodworking, stamp collecting, gardening, and was an electronics enthusiast. During harvest, Robert could be found on the farm assisting with field work, which he loved. 

Survivors include sister Kayleen Kern (Jerry) of Great Bend; brother, Gary Hertel (Diana) of Great Bend; brother, Daryl Hertel of Great Bend; sister, Cheryl Degenhardt (Kenneth) of Garden City, Kan.; and nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, May 7, 2024, at St. Patrick Catholic Church in Great Bend, with Father Prakash Kola presiding. Interment will follow at Great Bend Cemetery, Great Bend, with Military Rites conducted by Ft. Riley Honor Guard. Visitation will be noon to 8 p.m., Monday, May 6, 2024, at Bryant Funeral Home, with a Vigil with Rosary at 7 p.m.  Memorials to Prince of Peace Parish may be given, in care of Bryant Funeral Home, 1425 Patton Rd., Great Bend, KS  67530. Condolences may be sent and notice viewed at www.bryantfh.net.

Funeral arrangements provided by

Bryant Funeral Home 

1425 Patton Rd. 

Great Bend, KS  67530

Great Bend (Kan.) Tribune, May 2, 2024