Bobby "Bob" G. Coon

Bobby George Coon, affectionately known as Bob, 86, of Topeka, Kansas, passed away August 19th, 2025. Born on October 18, 1938, in Jackson County, Missouri, to Harry Henly Coon and Beulah Anne (Vaughn), Bobby was the sixth of eight children. He was also lovingly raised by his stepfather, Roy Hardy.

Bob spent his childhood in Burlingame, Kansas, where he developed a lifelong love for the outdoors, fishing, swimming, riding bikes from Burlingame to Osage City, and hunting with his siblings and friends. He also enjoyed playing basketball and had a strong competitive spirit from an early age.

In 1955, Bob met Carol while working at the Senate Cafeteria in Topeka. He quickly won her over with his skating skills and smooth singing voice. Their first kiss sealed the deal, Carol was smitten. Just seven months later, they married on March 3, 1956, beginning a beautiful journey that would span nearly 70 years. Together, they raised three children Robert, Sherri, and Mark.

Bob was a skilled craftsman with a talent for creating exquisite furniture and cabinetry. Over the years, he worked as a carpenter for a custom cabinet maker and at Whelan’s, in the Door and Window department. He took immense pride in his work, passing his craftsmanship and dedication on to his children and grandchildren.

Above all, Bob was devoted to his family. His love for them ran deep and unwavering, expressed through quiet acts of service, steady support, and the pride he took in their every accomplishment. He was a constant presence, reliable and loyal. His courage and determination were a cornerstone of the family, anchoring them through life’s joys and challenges.

Bob’s smile lit up every room he entered. It was the kind of smile that made you feel seen, safe, and welcome. His smile reflected his undeniable zest for life, a smile that will be cherished and deeply missed.

Bob also had a deep love for music. He was rarely without a tune, whether he was singing, whistling, or picking his favorite Elvis or gospel song on his guitar. Music flowed naturally from him and was a familiar backdrop to family gatherings and quiet afternoons alike.

A passionate collector, Bob had a special eye for finding meaning in the everyday. Whether it was tools, keepsakes, or photographs, he surrounded himself with reminders of the people and moments he cherished. His collections told stories of his past, his passions, and the people he loved.

Bob was a man of action, more comfortable showing love through his deeds than with words. He was a fisherman, hunter, storyteller, protector, and teacher. He valued experiences, often choosing to travel and document life through photography. He had a gift for capturing special moments, turning them into treasured keepsakes for his family.

Bob's life was full of laughter, adventure, and love. He was known for his stubborn streak, generous heart, and mischievous sense of humor. Whether camping, hunting, swimming at the family-owned property, or building something by hand, he made every moment count. A teacher at heart, he poured his time and wisdom into the next generations, leaving behind a legacy of hard work, resilience, and loyalty.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 69 years, Carol Coon; children Robert (Joyce) Coon, Sherri (Rick) Land, and Mark (Amy) Coon; beloved grandchildren Dustin (Shawna) Land, Brandi (Matthew) Mulryan, Misty (Dan) Reddick, Bobby (Kristin) Coon, and Breanna (Joshua) Briggs; numerous great-grandchildren; one great-great-granddaughter on the way; and many beloved nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Beulah and Harry, stepfather Roy, and all of his siblings.

His legacy lives on in the stories he told, the music he made, the lessons he taught, and the love he shared. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered for his smile, his strength, and the beautiful life he built with those he loved most.

Visitation will be held from 10-11:00 A.M., on Tuesday, August 26, 2025, at Community Church, 1819 SW 21st St., Topeka, KS, 66604. A funeral service will follow at 11:00 A.M., at the church with burial to follow at Rochester Cemetery.

To share a memory or to leave condolences, please visit, www.brennanmathenafh.com.

Arrangements entrusted to Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home, 800 SW 6th Ave., Topeka, KS 66603.