Robert “Bob” Bray

Robert A. Bray, 76, of Shawnee, Kansas passed away Tuesday, December 15, 2020 at his home after a courageous battle with cancer.

He was born on January 11, 1944 in Kansas City, Kansas to Joseph and Irene Bray. After graduating from Wyandotte High School in 1962, Robert enlisted into the Navy where he spent time on a survey ship called the USS Maury (AGS-16).

In 1965, Robert married his longtime love, Charlotte. They met at a sock hop in their mid-teens and were together ever since. Their 50th wedding anniversary was celebrated in 2015, just a month before her passing. They had one child, Jennifer.

Robert worked for Santa Fe Railroad (BNSF) for over 30 years. Upon his retirement, he was able to do more of the things he enjoyed. He always loved to fish but also found out he was a "natural" golfer. It was always a tough decision of what to do on a nice day, golf or fish? Over the years he was also a member of the Abdallah Shrine Temple, where he was a part of the Provost Guard. He also enjoyed doing security for the American Royal Rodeo and concerts. Robert could brighten up anyone's day with just his smile. For those that knew him, know what I mean. The respect he had for others, in turn was given back to him. He was an avid KU, Royals and Chiefs fan. If he wasn't watching sports on his big screen TV, he always had a good Western on.

Once his two grandchildren (Payten and Macie) came along, his world revolved around them. He loved doing anything with them and for them. He taught them so many things from learning how to swim, to blowing the paper off of straws at restaurants just to see how far they'd go. He would attend as many music programs, choir concerts and plays as he could. But most of all, he enjoyed watching them play sports.

He was a long-time member of Crossroads Christian Church.

He is survived by his daughter Jennifer, Son-in-Law Travis,

Grandchildren (Payten-14 and Macie-12), Brothers (Joe, Paul, David, Jeff and Ronnie), Sisters (Joni and Dora) along with many nieces, nephews and cousins. Robert is preceded in death by his wife (Charlotte), Mother (Irene), Father (Joseph), Sister (Barbara) and Brother (Charles).

His celebration of life will be held on Monday, December 21, 2020 at Crossroads Christian Church (5855 Renner Road, Shawnee, Ks.).

Visitation is from 6pm-7pm and a service will immediately follow from 7pm-8pm.

Robert, and his wife Charlotte, will be laid to rest at the National Cemetery in Leavenworth, KS at a future date.