Robert “Willie” Weems

Robert Eugene Weems, known as "Willie" to most, was a unique individual. He was incredibly intelligent, earning his bachelor's degree from Kansas State University and law degree from Kansas University, but more importantly possessed a huge, loving heart. Sadly for all who knew him, his body endured too much stress and in the early morning of December 4th, his family maintained a vigil by his bedside as he passed away.

The beauty of this heartbreaking experience has been the outflowing of love and support shown for Willie and his family as we navigate the painful process of watching someone so generous, kind and loving cross from this world to the next. Not only was Willie's wife, Robin Kay Mohr, by his side but also his three sons: Tucker Thurman, Joshua Russell, and Collin Robert. Josh's wife Meagan, Robin's sister Connie, and Robert's sister Deborah Sue were with him as well. His sister Connie also comforted him in his final days. Jo Leta, Robert's mother, held his hand while he passed, giving the same tender care she showed on August 23, 1954 as he came into this world. Jo was able to be with her son due to the efforts of Susan and Scott Averill, lifelong friends who also shared Willie's final moments. Though Willie is no longer with us, he joins his cherished father, Bud Weems, who he missed dearly for the past 10 years.

From Saturday to Tuesday, an outpouring of love and support surrounded Willie and his family as much needed hugs and tears of sadness were shared. So many friends were with Willie that we occupied not one but two waiting rooms and a corridor of the KU Medical Center ICU. The overwhelming turnout reflects on Willie's life and his remarkable ability to turn strangers into friends, and friends into family. Willie also possessed a love for his dogs that will forever go unmatched, which they returned to him; they never left his side while he was home, or the window while he was away.

Willie was wonderfully kind and generous, and beautifully opinionated and stubborn - a combination of traits creating his unique character, which made him the most loving and interesting person any of us had the pleasure of knowing. Willie enjoyed challenging us all in so many ways while encouraging us to become better people. We are incredibly blessed with his impact on our lives and the memories we have with him.

The family would like all to know that we will gratefully accept more of the hugs and love demonstrated during his final few days as we share stories, laughter, and tears at a gathering to say ‘see you later’ to Robert "Willie" Weems. His Celebration of Life will be held on December 9th, 7pm at the Lake Quivira Clubhouse. Heavy appetizers and drinks will be provided.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution for an in-memory-of sponsorship in Lake Quivira’s “Lake Classic” golf tournament, which brought Willie so much happiness. His partner was either his father or one of his sons for all but a few of the 30 plus years he played in this cherished event. The sponsorship will raise awareness for Folds of Honor, and funds raised beyond the sponsorship cost will go directly to the Folds of Honor cause. Ways to contribute: (1) Click this link for online contribution (2) bring physical contribution to Celebration of Life December 4th, 7 pm at Lake Quivira clubhouse (3) send contribution to the Lake Quivira Pro Shop, 100 Crescent Blvd, Lake Quivira KS 66217 - checks payable to “Lake Classic” with “Willie Weems” in the memo.