PRATT — Robert (Bob) Pinkall, 87, passed away on March 8th, 2024 at Grand Plains Skilled Nursing in Pratt, Kan. He was born May 20, 1936 to Edward and Laura Pinkall in McPherson, Kan. His parents and brother John have proceeded him in death.
Education was important to Bob and he was proud to graduate with honors from Salina High School in 1954. He continued that education at Kansas Wesleyan University graduating with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in 1958. In 1962 he was awarded a National Science Grant to study at Colorado State University. He received a Master’s Degree in Physics in 1966 with an additional opportunity to pursue 2 summers of research also at Colorado State University.
While attending Kansas Wesleyan University he met his future wife Karen Nonken, while sitting in assigned seats in a class. That relationship continued until June 23, 1956 when they were married at Hope, Kan. They were married for 67 years. Karen continued her PHT (putting hubby through) by working at the Western Star Mill office. Their family grew when Bruce, Gary and Allen were born. It now includes daughters-in-law Rita, Michelle and Charlotte, grandchildren Katie Utt, Bryan, Ryan and Brent Pinkall. Also great grandchildren Logan and Benton Utt. Nothing was more enjoyable to Bob than a family gathering.
Teaching was Bob’s choice of careers. He taught in public schools in Goodland, Lyons, and Great Bend. He also was on the faculty at Fort Hays State University, and Barton County Community College. After leaving the teaching field he became the Director of Rock Springs 4-H Center where he enjoyed living in “the country” in the beautiful Flint Hills for 10 years. When he reached retirement age another “career” opportunity allowed him to work at the Land Institute, a research facility south of Salina.
A God given talent that Bob used during his adult life was that of drawing. He loved illustrating things and his drawings were used in many different areas. Many 4-H publications used his drawings and sets of note cards featured his drawings. He particularly enjoyed drawing birds. His favorite pastimes were being in the outdoors, fishing, camping with family, hunting with friends, attending ball games, traveling to Branson and Colorado, and gatherings with The Crazy Buddies a group of five couples who met yearly for over 50 years.
A particular area of pride was his involvement in Boy Scouts of America. He was a Scoutmaster and regular adult sponsor at campouts. He sponsored several groups to Philmont Scout Ranch and other High Adventure trips. The fact that all three sons and three grandsons earned the Eagle Scout award was of special pride to him.
Friends may sign the book Wednesday, March 13, 2024 from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. with family present for visitation from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Larrison Mortuary, 300 Country Club Road, Pratt, KS.
Celebration of Life will be held at 2 p.m. Thursday, March 14, 2024 at University United Methodist Church, Salina, Kan. Memorials may be made to Kansas Wesleyan University or the Kansas 4-H Foundation in care of Larrison Mortuary, 300 Country Club Road, Pratt. Online condolences may be made at www.larrisonmortuary.com.
Funeral arrangements provided by
Larrison Mortuary
300 Country Club Road
Pratt, KS 67124
Great Bend (Kan.) Tribune, March 12, 2024
