Robert M. "Bob" Park was born October 19, 1931 near Runnymede, Kansas to Robert and Hazel (Stevens) Park.

Bob's lifelong passion was aviation; as a private pilot, as an instructor, and as a mechanic. He flew single and twin engine airplanes, gliders, and taught himself how to fly a hot air balloon.

At a young age, the family moved from the farm he was born on to another farm close to Harper. This is where Bob grew up and where he farmed for most of his life. After grade school, he went to Harper High School and graduated with the class of 1949.

Serving his country in the Air Force, Bob was stationed in Germany during the Korean War where he was a teletype repairman. He enlisted on December 29, 1950 and was promoted to Airman First Class on October 1, 1953. He received the Occupation Medal w/clamp (Germany) and the National Defense Service Medal. On September 28, 1954, Bob was honorably discharged.

Returning home, Bob was certified in electronics by DeVry Technical Institute and became a TV repairman. He returned to farming as well. For several years, Bob took aerial photos for the FSA (Farm Service Agency) in Kansas and Oklahoma. And he also had a Ham radio license.

Organizations he belonged to included AOPA (Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association), EAA (Experimental Aircraft Association) Chapters 88 and 1127, and United Flying Octogenarians.

Robert passed away November 11, 2016 in Wichita, Kansas at the age of 85. He leaves to mourn his passing his sister Josephine Park of Harper, sister-in-law Nadine Park of Fort Worth, Texas, several cousins, and many friends.

Preceding him in death is his brother William "Willie" Park.

Cremation has taken place. Friends may register from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Friday, November 18 at the Prairie Rose Funeral Home in Harper. Family will be present from 5:00p.m. to 7:00 p.m. for a visitation with friends.

A Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, November 19 at the Harper United Methodist Church with Pastor Jerred Haydock officiating. The Air Force Honor Guard from McConnell Air Force Base will be present to provide funeral honors for Robert's military service. Private family inurnment will take place at a later date.

The family has asked that memorials be given to Wings of Hope and may be sent in care of the funeral home. For information on Wings of Hope, you can visit https://wingsofhope.ngo

Prairie Rose Funeral Homes, 613 W 14th ~ Harper, Kansas 67058 is in charge of arrangements.