Robert Paul Bieker

Robert (Bob) Bieker, 74, DeLand, passed away July 10, 2017 after a long and courageous battle with metastasized prostate cancer. He was born May 26, 1943 at Hays, KS to Carl and Rita Bieker. A graduate of St. Joseph's Military Academy, now Thomas More Prep Marian High School in Hays, the military discipline followed him throughout his life but with a large dose of humor and good mischief. He never met a stranger. Bob married his high school sweetheart, Marilyn Haas, Ellis, KS in 1963. One son, Kevin, was born to them. His wife and son were his greatest pride. Bob was employed by Dillon Stores, Wichita, KS for 25 years. Recognized for his management skills, he opened multiple new stores for the company and advanced the careers of many employees. An entrepreneur, he began several startup companies. His final career choice was automobile sales. Honesty and customer satisfaction were his reputation. Bob was an extremely generous individual and particularly loved gifting family and friends with vacations at his favorite timeshares. Seeking a warmer climate, he and Marilyn moved from Minneapolis, MN in 2002 and found paradise in DeLand. Survivors include his wife; son Kevin (Dawn Pitmon), Woodbury, MN; four brothers (Charles, Salina, KS; Gene, Granbury, TX; Jim, Trinity, TX; Gerard, Wichita, KS); three sisters (Marlene Irwin, Hays, KS; Margaret Picking, Hot Springs Village, AK; Marla Diers, Trinity, TX). He was predeceased by his parents and one sister, Mary Ann Wasko. Funeral services will be held August 16, 2017 at 10 AM, St. Peters Catholic Church, DeLand. Family services will follow August 19 in Hays, KS. Online condolences may be made at legacy.com. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Patient Advocates for Advanced Cancer Treatments, P. O. Box 45, Sparta, MI 49345 or to your favorite organization involved in the fight against cancer.