Robert A. Volk's Obituary
Robert A. Volk, husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle and friend passed
away peacefully on March 2, 2026, at the Neosho Memorial Regional Medical Center. Born
on October 8, 1931, in Cherryvale, Kansas, Robert had a long life filled with hard work,
recreation, and laughter.
The son of Glen and Iva Volk, Robert, was raised in a modest home with a strong work ethic
in Cherryvale, KS. After graduating from Cherryvale High School in 1950, Robert served in
the U.S. Navy during the Korean War. Assigned to the USS Castor, he passed time while
crossing from Hawaii to Japan playing cards with shipmates. His time in the Navy, despite
four years of sea sickness, was remembered fondly. The typhoon that disabled the
Castor’s engines and left the ship helplessly adrift in rough seas for 22 hours was one of his
favorite stories.
After the Navy, Robert studied and played football at Independence Community College
until suffering a career ending broken back during a game. In 1956, Robert married Karolyn
K. (Donnel) Volk and welcomed their first son in 1957. He returned to his studies and
graduated from Pittsburg State University with a bachelor’s degree in business. While
attending college he supported his family working as a short order cook and managing the
Cherryvale swimming pool in the summers.
After college, Robert and Karolyn embarked on a journey and partnership lasting 50 years
until her untimely passing in 2007. They were blessed with three children: Robert Jr., Robin,
and Craig.
Robert found his niche as a salesman. He sold insurance door to door in Denver, made
sales calls for Swift & Company, and later was a salesman for food brokerage firms in
Denver. Most of his career was on the road, traveling through territories in northern New
Mexico, Colorado, Wyoming, and parts of Nebraska. Robert's occupation relocated his
family up and down the Colorado front range, from Denver, Trinidad, Colorado Springs,
Security, Westminster and finally Pinecliffe. He retired in 1993, moving Karolyn and himself
to the flat lands of Neodesha, KS.
In retirement, Robert was known for his woodworking. He found joy tinkering in his
workshop, crafting furniture for his grandchildren, creating birdhouses and yard art that
brought smiles to many. After Karolyn passed, he found a new hobby repurposing furniture
for his friend, Kari.
Robert was a man of strong character, known for his firm handshake and a devilish sense of
humor. His generosity and responsiveness were especially felt by those who rented houses
from him, as he always made sure their needs were met.
He is survived by his children, Robert (Gigi) Volk Jr., Robin (David) Landes, and Craig Volk;
his grandchildren, Brandon (Angela), Travis (Dani), Benjamin, Mary, and Christopher; and
his great-grandchildren, Theodore and Willa. He will be warmly remembered by his many
nieces, nephews, and his close friend, Kari Friend. Robert was preceded in death by his
beloved wife Karolyn, his parents Glen and Iva, and his sister Carol James.
The family wishes to express their gratitude to the doctors and staff at Neosho Memorial
Regional Medical Center for their exceptional care and compassion during Robert's last
days. They would also like to thank his many doctors and specialists that contributed to
his longevity and quality of life. A special thank you to his neighbors and friends who
looked in on him, provided transportation, and assisted him the last few years. Per Robert's
request, there will not be a service. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages acts of
kindness in Robert's memory, a fitting tribute to a man who was always willing to lend a
hand to a neighbor.
What’s your fondest memory of Robert?
What’s a lesson you learned from Robert?
Share a story where Robert's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Robert you’ll never forget.
How did Robert make you smile?