Robert Lee Laughlin

Robert “Bob” Lee Laughlin, age 82, passed away in the arms of his wife of 63 years on Thursday, April 17, 2025. He was born on September 15, 1942, in Kearney, Nebraska, to Dr. Earl Laughlin, DDS, and Mildred Laughlin.

After graduating high school, Bob attended Simpson College in Indianola, Iowa, where he met the love of his life, Pamella Ann Kelsay. In January 1961, he enlisted in the United States Navy and served as an electronics technician aboard the USS Kitty Hawk during the Vietnam War. Following his honorable discharge, he pursued studies in archaeology and anthropology at Iowa State University.

Bob began his professional career as a chemistry assistant at a paint factory before being hired as a plant manager in Kansas City, Missouri. He and Pam raised two children: Taressa Watson (her husband, Dewayne) and Joseph Laughlin (his wife, Janeen). Bob was a proud grandfather of four grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, two step-grandchildren, and two step-great-grandchildren.

Never one to stop learning, Bob returned to school in 1990 and earned his associate’s degree in occupational therapy from Penn Valley Community College, specializing in geriatrics. He was deeply passionate about his work and cherished the time he spent helping others.

In his free time, Bob enjoyed reading about history and genealogy. He was the family’s official pie baker and made breakfast sandwiches just the way Pam liked them. He was a member of Promise Keepers, the VFW and North Star United Methodist Church.

He was preceded in death by his parents and is survived by his beloved wife, Pamella, as well as his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, April 26, at North Star United Methodist Church. 11250 North Eastern Ave., Kansas City, MO 64156. Inurnment will take place at Leavenworth National Cemetery at a later date. Everyone is invited to a reception immediately following the service at the church. In Lue of flowers the family request contribution be given to the Tunnel to Tower Foundation.    https://t2t.org/