Robert Falter

Robert Gene Falter passed away November 2, 2026, at the age of 89. Born in Pocatello, Idaho, he was the only son born to Lester and Muriel (Williams) Falter.

He grew up in rural Wabaunsee County, attending First White schoolhouse up to the 8th grade before devoting his full attention to working on the family farm and as a service attendant for Bolton’s Service Station.

He joined the National Guard in 1957, serving 5 years. During that time, he married Rita Gaston and they welcomed their first child, Jeffrey. Two more children were born to that union, Kim and Christina.

During his time as a resident of Council Grove throughout the 60’s and 70’s, he was a heavy equipment operator, working on many familiar local developments, including the federal reservoir, White Memorial Camp and a stretch of I70 northeast of Alma. Bob worked for various companies throughout that time, eventually buying out one employer and starting Falter Construction. In the 70’s that company expanded to include Morris/Chase County Refuge. He was an active member of the Optimus Club and his skill with heavy equipment was legendary.

He and Rita would later divorce. Bob relocated to Emporia. there he married Donna Hall, welcoming stepdaughters Lisa and Terri Hall into his blended family.

In Emporia Bob began his career with Glacier Drilling, an oil company based out of Oklahoma. He and Donna would relocate there in the 80’s, finding home first in Pawnee, then settling in Guthrie. Bob enjoyed his work for Glacier, finally retiring in his mid-70’s.

He took great pride in the home he and Donna made, hosting annual Fourth of July parties and family holidays that created many great memories. He loved working with his hands, even in his leisure time. He was a skilled woodworker, crafting many furniture pieces that will now become heirloom pieces to his children and grandchildren. He had a lifelong love of hot rods, collecting magazines, part catalogs and projects throughout his life. One of his proudest accomplishments was restoring his 1952 Victoria Crestline from the ground up, doing everything from the mechanic work to the exterior, to the upholstery himself. He was an active member of his church, a good neighbor and a good friend to many.

Bob came back to his native Kansas in 2020, after losing his beloved wife in January of that year. He made his new home in Wilsey, where he could be close to family and putter in his shop, mow his grass and love on his sweet dog, Molly. A fall would make it necessary for him to relocate to the Assisted Living in Council Grove a few years later. He made many friends in that community and enjoyed regular visits from his children there.

He was preceded in death by his parents, both his wives, and his daughter, Kim.

He is survived by his son, Jeff Falter (Robin) of Wilsey, Christy Alexander (Bob) of Council Grove, stepdaughters Lisa and Terri Hall, both of Camillus, NY, grandchildren Jason Falter, Justin (Alison) Falter, Chloe Alexander, and Piper Alexander. Sisters Carolyn Weeks and Sandy Richards. He will be lovingly remembered by friends and extended family in both Kansas and Oklahoma.

Services will be held at 10:00am, Friday, November 6, 2026, at the Council Grove First Congregational Church, 400 W. Main St., with burial following at Prairie View Cemetery.

Memorial contributions can be made to First Congregational Church.