Robert Louis Charay, Sr.

Robert Louis Charay, Sr., 83, of Topeka, passed away Tuesday, May 12, 2026, at his home.

He was born July 18, 1942, in Topeka, to Ernest G. Charay, Sr. and Julia (Silva) Charay. Robert graduated from Hayden High School in 1960 and attended 2 years of junior college.

Robert worked as a Carman for BNSF Railway for 39 years.

He married Adeline Theresa Garcia on April 8, 1961, at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church. They celebrated 65 years together.

In his younger years, Robert enjoyed playing basketball. He was a fan of KU basketball, the Kansas City Chiefs and Royals. Other activities included going to the gym, casino, and meeting his friends and other retirees at The Viking Grill and Spangles. Robert was always the life of the party and never knew a stranger.

Survivors include his wife, Adeline Charay of Topeka; children, Robert L. Charay Jr. (Felicitas) of Topeka, Alfred Charay (Terri Allgood) of Topeka, Phillip Charay (Rachel) of Topeka, Chris Charay (Amy) of Kansas City, Missouri, Charles Charay of Topeka, Felicia Hillebert (Brian) of Topeka; siblings, David Charay (Linda) of Topeka, Alice Flores of Dallas, Texas, Margaret Martinez of Sal Mar, California; 12 grandchildren, Melissa, Aaron, Erika, Tyler, Mindy, Jade, Alex, Joe, Jake, Addie, Brock, Gavin; numerous great grandchildren; great-great grandchildren; many nieces and nephews; and his beloved dog Mollie.

He was preceded in death by his parents; siblings, Richard Charay, Danny Charay Sr., Antonio Chary, Arthur Charay, Rosa Olivia Charay, Mary Helen Benefield.

The family will receive friends on Monday, May 18, at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church from 9:30am to 10:30am. A Rosary will be prayed at 10:30am, and Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00am.

Memorial contributions should be made to Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church, sent in care of Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home, 800 SW 6th Ave. Topeka, KS 66603.