Robert Hunt

(From Derfelt Funeral Home)

Robert Dale Hunt, age 69, of Baxter Springs passed from this life Tuesday, February 25 after battling Lymphoma for over a year.

Robert was born on April 29, 1950 in Joplin, MO to the union of Jess Franklin Hunt and Ruth Chyrene (Foland) Hunt.

Robert graduated from Baxter Springs High School in May 1968. The next day, Robert began working for Vickers Manufacturing in Joplin where he worked as a machine operator until the Joplin plant was closed in 1988. Robert then worked for Able Body Corporation in Joplin until retiring in 2010. Robert then went to work as a custodian for Lincoln Elementary, Baxter Springs USD #508. In May 2015, he retired from the school to become a full time Pawpaw.

Robert was united in marriage to Nancy Jane Baggerly on February 13, 1976 and built their house next to his parents’ home in Baxter Springs.

Throughout his life, he participated in various community activities, especially ones involving his kids because family was his priority. Robert served as an assistant Girl Scout leader, loving each girl in the troop like they were his own. He also served as the city Girl Scout cookie manager for several years.

Robert shared a love of the outdoors with his kids and grandkids. Robert enjoyed fishing & boating. It was common to find Robert outside working in the yard, planting the garden, or sitting outside enjoying a few minutes of quiet.

Robert and his dad rebuilt antique cars and enjoyed participating in local parades and car shows. He loved to tinker and fix things, never willing to throw it away just because it didn’t work.

Robert was preceded in death by his father, Jess Franklin Hunt, and his brother-in-law, Charles “Sarge” Edmondson.

Robert is survived by his wife of 44 years, Nancy Hunt; daughter Beth Hunt; son John Hunt and wife Amber; mother Ruth Hunt; sister Elizabeth Edmondson; and eight grandchildren: MacKenzie, Aryian, Kyren, Avrey, Colton, Carroline, Franklin, and Juliette who all reside in Baxter Springs, KS.

Graveside services will be held at 11AM Friday, February 28, 2020 at Baxter Springs Cemetery with his nephew, Bob Edmondson officiating. The family will receive friends from 9:30 - 10:30AM at Derfelt’s Chapel in Baxter Springs before the services.

Pallbearers will be Riley Edmondson, Rodney Edmondson, Dan Mahan, Lee Ogle, Les Page, and Robin Wene.

Memorial Contributions can be made in honor of Robert to the Baxter Springs Fire Auxiliary in care of the funeral home.