Robert Lee Hanks, 74, of Topeka, Kansas, passed away on Monday, November 3, 2025, Topeka, Kansas.
Robert was born on July 16, 1951, in Nuremberg, Germany, and was adopted by the loving family of Virgil and Stella Hanks. As the baby of the family, he joined his siblings: Virgil Jr., James Harv, Nancy, Mitzy Ann, and Alta.
Robert lived in California. After the untimely passing of their mother, Robert was raised by his eldest sister Nancy from ages 6 to 15. After graduating High School, Robert joined the armed forces.
Robert was a proud soldier who honorably served in the U.S. Army. Following his military separation, he dedicated 25 years to civil service, working for the Defense Reutilization and Marketing Office (DRMO) as a hazardous material handler and later as a foreman in Barstow, California, Las Vegas, Nevada, and Fort Riley, Kansas, before his retirement. He also briefly served as a chaplain for the Pottawatomie County Sheriff’s Department.
Robert enjoyed history, particularly the American Civil War era, and could often be found participating in reenactments. Cats, trains, and classic cars also brought a smile to his face. Robert took various jobs mowing grass in the Manhattan, Kansas, area when he ran out of his own grass to mow into perfection.
Robert met and married Darla Kay Bonner in Westmoreland, Kansas, and made the town their home. Robert gained a daughter through this union and made it official by adopting Pamela Lynn on November 11, 1991. After tolerating each other for long enough, Robert and Darla later divorced.
Robert is survived by his beloved daughter Pamela Hanks of Topeka, Kansas, cherished older sister Nancy Hysung of Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, and sister Alta Curtsinger of Waco, Texas.
Robert is preceded in death by his parents Virgil and Stella Hanks; brothers Virgil Jr. and James Harv; sister Mitzi Ann; son Robert Lee Hanks Jr.; and his nagging, albeit loving, ex-wife Darla. His heavenly reunion was surely loaded with loved ones and maybe a little drama.
Robert’s family will hold a graveside memorial service with Military Honors on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at the Westmoreland City Cemetery. There is no visitation, but friends are invited to attend the graveside service.
Memorial contributions are suggested to Ascend Hospice. Please make checks payable to Ascend Hospice and those may be left with Campanella & Stewart Funeral Home, P. O. Box 48, Wamego, Kansas, 66547.
In lieu of flowers, Robert’s family asks that if you have a loved one at Aldersgate Village, you make a commitment to go and check on them often.