Robert Bruce Hearrell

Robert Bruce “Rob” Hearrell, 69, passed away surrounded by family and loved ones on June 10, 2026. He died from injuries sustained when what was intended to be a pleasant motorcycle ride on a nice evening ended tragically when a deer ran into his path.

Rob was born January 29, 1957 and was the son of Albert and Dolorise Hearrell. He lived his entire life in Topeka, graduated from Topeka West High School and attended Washburn University. Rob was a highly skilled welder and steamfitter (as was his father). He was proud of the major projects he helped build in the Midwest and was also proud to be a member of Union Local 441 of the Plumbers and Pipefitters of Kansas.

As a young man Rob was an excellent athlete and was a highly successful youth sports coach. He loved music and worked on art projects in various mediums. He was intelligent, inquisitive and was constantly studying areas that were of interest to him. He enjoyed riding and working on his motorcycles.

Rob had a great ability to make friends and had friends from different times in his life and from the varying interests he had. This is not surprising because he always had a positive demeanor, always had a smile, and he always saw the best in others.

Rob married Vicki Obley in 1976. They knew one another while young and were married 50 years. They often said they grew up together. He was extremely proud of his wife, children and grandchildren. Rob is survived by his wife Vicki, son Colin and daughter Amber; grandchildren Tristan, Rylie and Bryson; brothers Randy (Carla) and Steve (Terri), all of Topeka; sister Iris (Ron Forbis) of Rolla, Missouri and a number of nieces and nephews.

His entire life he was kind and was committed to helping others. The family is proud and knows he would be pleased that he continues to help others with the organ donations he made.

Memorial services will be held Friday, June 19, 2026, at 10:00 A.M. at University United Methodist Church, 1621 SW College Ave., Topeka, Kansas, 66604. Rob will be laid to rest at the Hamlin Cemetery in Hiawatha, Kansas following the memorial service.

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