Bob Hughes

Bob "Grandad" Hughes
Robert S. Hughes peacefully passed away on January 1, 2009 in his home. He was born on October 4, 1931, in Ottawa, Kansas to Dr. Paul and Alicia Hughes. He was preceded in death by his parents and a sister, Virginia.

Bob married Mary Louise Swallow on Feb. 13, 1955 in Ottawa, Kansas. She preceded him in death in July 17, 1991. Bob is survived by his four sons, Stan, Eric and wife Charlene, Curby and wife Denise, and Keith and wife Lisa. All reside in Olathe. Grandchildren include Ashley and husband Tom, Abby, Morgan, McKenzie, and Colby. Also preceding him in death was Beverly McCracken, whom he married in 1994.

Bob graduated from Ottawa High School in 1949. He then went on to Ottawa University and graduated in 1953 with a business degree. He began working at Miller-Fredeen shoe store during Jr. High school and continued through his college years. Bob moved to Olathe in 1954 and opened Hughes Shoes downtown, providing shoes for Olathe residents for over 35 years. Bob also sold cars for Mitchell Cadillac in Olathe for many years.

As a resident of Olathe, Bob's contributions were many. He served as President of Jaycees, two time President of Olathe Noon Rotary, a member of Navy League, an Elder of the First Presbyterian Church, and later a member of Grace United Methodist Church. Bob was on the Olathe Hospital Board from 1969 until his death and was instrumental in the opening of Olathe Medical Center. Bob and his wife Mary were honored by the Olathe Chamber of Commerce as "Citizens of the Year" in 1985. Bob and Mary were on the Chamber of Commerce Olathe Night at the Royals Committee from its inception in 1970. Over the years they helped bring anywhere from 300 to 5,000 Olathe residents to Royals Stadium in one night.

Anyone who knew Grandad knew that he was an avid sports fan. More than a fan, Bob was a statistician for the Kansas City Chiefs for over 25 seasons. Bob provided shoes for several Royals players over the years and formed lasting friendships with them as well. He was a long time Olathe Eagles fan, supporting all the school's sports. Grandad is a legend of Olathe North High School Football for his silent service behind the camera from 1972 until 2007. Local softball teams will long remember Grandad's presence in the stands and his positive, encouraging words.

Bob was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, and friend. Over the years, his family and friends have enjoyed fishing trips, bowling, and attending sporting events with him. Grandad rarely missed any of his grandchildren's dance recitals, band concerts, softball, basketball, and soccer games. His positive attitude and constant support has been an inspiration for all who have known him and he will be dearly missed.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions to Hospice of Olathe Medical Center and the Olathe Noon Rotary Club.