Robert "Bob" Gittinger

Kismet, KSRobert “Bob” Gittinger, 83, died Friday, May 9, 2014 at Kansas Medical Center, Andover, Ks. He was born January 31, 1931 at Manning, Ks, the son of Elmer and Ida (Peterson) Gittinger. Robert was raised on a farm west of Wallace, graduating from Sharon Springs High School.Robert Married Irene Gebhards on August 15, 1954 at Weskan, Ks, she survives, they settled in Goodland where he was a machinist at LJ Messers, a volunteer firefighter, and a member of the VFW. In 1973 the family moved to Kismet, Ks, and he began his teaching career at the Liberal Area Vo-Tech. Robert soon became a respected instructor and was instrumental in developing the automotive machine shop program. He served his country in the army from 1951-1953 during the Korean War. Robert was a true patriot who continued to serve through civic leadership and community activism. He also served on the Kismet City Council, the Kismet Little World’s Fair, the Lion’s Club, and the Seward County Council on Aging are but a few of the organizations in which he was involved. Robert was a collector of many things; most importantly the hearts of those who’s lives he touched. As he steps forth from this earth, the void he leaves is vast. He will be dearly missed, most especially by his loving wife of 59 years.Survivors: 3-Sons Kendall Gittinger and wife Marilyn Goodland, Ks Bob Gittinger and wife Catina Goodland, Ks Kurt Gittinger and wife Susan Overland Park, Ks 1-Daughter Mona Gittinger Coffeyville, Ks 2-Brothers John Gittinger & wife Carolyn Odessa, Mo Ralph Gittinger & wife Ruth Odessa, Mo 8-Grandchildren: Amanda Tibbits & husband Tim-Hays. Tim Gittinger & wife Jessica-Goodland. Aaron Gittinger & wife Lacy-Bartlesville, Ok. Jamie Gittinger-Hays. Dakota Rine-Coffeyville. Rachel Gittinger-Washington, D.C. Anne Gittinger-Overland Park. Abbie Gittinger-Overland Park. 1-Great Grandchild: Aiden GittingerHe was preceded in death by his Parents, and 1 Sister-Kathryn Ford.Funeral Service: 10:00 am Wednesday at the Kismet United Methodist Church, with Pastor Larry Myers presiding.Visitation: 9 am to 8 pm Tuesday, with family present from 6 - 7 pm at Brenneman Funeral Home.Burial: Will take place at 3:30 pm (MTN) Wednesday, in Sharon Springs Cemetery-Sharon Springs, Ks. With Pastor Keith Anglemyer presiding. Military Graveside Rites conducted by the Army Reserve Honor Guard Detail and Local VFW Post #6844.Memorial Contributions: Kismet Senior Center, Kismet Library, or the donor’s choice in care of Brenneman Funeral Home - 1212 W. 2nd – Liberal, Ks 67901