Robert R. Conness Jr., age 59, of WaKeeney, passed away Sunday, December 14, 2014 at his home. He was born May 17, 1955 in WaKeeney, to Robert Russell and Anna Ruth (Gorsky) Conness.
Robert graduated high school in 1973 from Trego Community High School. He went on to earn his Bachelor’s Degree from Fort Hays State University in Education, and further yet to earn his Master’s Degree from Emporia State in Rehabilitation Counseling. On September 22, 1979, he was united in marriage to Elaine Ann Harms. They enjoyed 35 years of marriage together. Robert worked for High Plains Mental Health and then for Kansas Social and Rehabilitation Services in Vocational Rehabilitation. Even though Robert kept busy with his career, he spent much of his extra time farming and ranching on the family farm. He loved time spent with his twin sons. He coached their baseball team and always looked forward to the next fishing trip with them. Robert was known for his skills on the barbeque; he believed that the only way to barbeque was with charcoal. He also loved his dogs and a good game of softball. He will be dearly missed.
Survivors include his wife, of the family home; two sons, Ian and Sean of the family home; brother, Dave (Lucy) Conness of WaKeeney; brother-in-law, Ken (Mary) Harms of Shawnee; nephews, Brian Conness, Bret Conness, and Chris Harms; and niece, Jennifer Ramage. He was preceded in death by his parents; and father-in-law Harry Harms.
Memorial services will be 10:30 a.m., Monday, December 22, 2014 at Bethlehem Lutheran Church, WaKeeney. Inurnment will be in the WaKeeney City Cemetery. Cremation was chosen.
There will be a wake service and visitation at the church on Sunday evening from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m.
Memorial contributions are suggested to Bethlehem Lutheran Church, Hope Lodge, or Hospice Services, Inc. Checks made to the organization may be sent in care of Schmitt Funeral Home, 336 North 12th, WaKeeney, KS 67672.
Condolences may be sent online at www.schmittfuneral.com.