Bobby Joe "Bob" Hightree, 76, of Harper, Kansas passed away on July 29, 2024 at the Kansas Heart Hospital in Wichita, Kansas.  He was born on February 22, 1948 in El Dorado Springs, Missouri to the late Herbert and Stella (Jennings) Hightree.

Bob's educational journey began at El Dorado Springs High School and was followed by further studies at the School of the Ozarks, Missouri Southern State University, and Wichita State University.  His lifelong commitment to learning and development was evident in all his endeavors.

Bob's career was a testament to his passion for education and community service.  He worked in various capacities, including Teacher, Coach, Athletic Director, Assistant Principal, and Superintendent across multiple school districts such as: Winfield, Hesston, Andale, Harper/Anthony/Chaparral, and South Barber.  Bob's commitment extended beyond education and into real estate and auctioneering.  He was an avid supporter, leader, and volunteer of sports and recreational activities for his children and grandchildren.

The many interests that Bob had included art, sports, farming, gardening, hunting, fishing, trapshooting, traveling, food, cooking, people-watching, visiting with friends as well as strangers, tinkering, gator rides with his great-granddaughters, going to his family's concerts, music, dance recitals, and sporting events.  He particularly cherished any activity that involved his wife, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, reflecting his deep commitment to family and friends.

56 years ago, on July 20, 1968, Bob married Judy Lowery, his college sweetheart of Noble, Oklahoma.  In addition to his wife, he is survived by his: son, Jason Hightree and wife, Nikki of Harper; daughter, Amy Hamilton and husband, Jason of Gardner, Kansas; and foster-son, Carlos Atondo of Wichita.  Bob's legacy continues through his grandchildren: Kyndell Hightree and wife, Megan of Bridgewater, Virginia, Kytrena Hightree of Dayton, Virginia, Daniela and Samantha Atondo of Wichita, and Kydrenn Hightree and fiancé, Payton McDermott of Fremont, Nebraska; and great-granddaughters, Hannah Ruth and Gracie Mae Hightree of Bridgewater.  He also leaves behind brothers, Gary Hightree of Branson Missouri and Dennis Hallford and wife, Darlene of El Dorado Springs; numerous brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, extended family members, and countless friends.

Preceding Bob in death were his parents, Herbert Hightree and Stella Mae Hallford; stepfather, Sam Hallford; brother, Larry Hallford; and mother-in-law, Jennie Mae Lowery.

Bob will be remembered as a strong, loving, and passionate husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, and son, who was dedicated to his family as well as his many friends.  He touched the lives of many with his generosity, kindness, and humility.  As a teacher, coach, parent, and role model, he will be cherished in the memories of all who knew him.

Friends may view and register on Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the funeral home.

A private family burial will be held at the Harper Cemetery.

Memorial Service is 11:00 a.m. Saturday, August 3, 2024 at the Pleasant Valley Mennonite Church, Harper with Pastor Royce Vogt officiating.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Bob Hightree Memorial Scholarship Fund and can be sent in care of the funeral home.  The family is looking forward to continuing Bob's lifelong love of learning with these funds.

Prairie Rose Funeral Homes, 613 W 14th St ~ Harper, Kansas  67058.