Robert Francis Vondemkamp, 93, of Kelly, died on Sunday, May 1, 2022 at Crestview Nursing and Residential Living in Seneca.

Bob was born on August 21, 1928 at the family home northwest of Kelly, to Frank and Margaret Eisenbarth Vondemkamp. Bob attended Blue Star Country School; a one room school house close to his home for a year. Then he went to St. Bede’s Catholic School in Kelly and graduated in 1946. He worked for his father farming until he was drafted into the U.S. Army. He was inducted into the service on August 15, 1952 and was discharged on May 14, 1954 at the rank of Sargent (T). He served 1 year, 2 months and 7 days in Korea; and he was very proud of his military service.

After serving his country, he returned to the family farm and continued to help his father until he married Mary Beth Nordhus on February 2, 1955 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in St. Benedict, Kansas.  They purchased a farm near Kelly, where raised four children and still reside. Bob never truly retired from the farm, he continued to help his sons farm and raise cattle until the last month of his life.

Bob enjoyed fishing, gardening, caring for his fruit trees and making homemade wine. Family and neighbors enjoyed sampling his famous cherry wine.

Bob was a member of St. Bede’s Catholic Church in Kelly and a member of the St. Joseph Society. He served on the church parish council and the school board for St. Bede’s School. He was a rosary leader and a commentator.

He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Mary Beth, his children Marian (Dave) Strathman of Axtell, Steve Vondemkamp of Seneca, Kay Weirs of Seneca and Dennis (Anna) Vondemkamp of Seneca; eight grandchildren and 25 great grandchildren.

A rosary will be prayed at 7 PM on Wednesday, May 4, 2022 at Lauer Funeral Home in Seneca. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 AM Thursday, May 5, 2022 at St. Bede’s Catholic Church in Kelly.  Burial will be in the church cemetery, with military honors.

Memorials can be given in Robert’s memory are to be designated for the Kelly Heritage Fund, and sent in care of the family.

To express your sympathy and for more information visit www.lauerfuneralhome.com .