Robert A. "Bob" Brinker, 81, of Seneca, lost his courageous battle against cancer on March 4, 2025 at his home in Seneca with his wife by his side.

Bob was born on April 8, 1943, to Elmer and Luella Hammes Brinker in the heart of Seneca, Kansas. He attended Sts. Peter and Paul Grade and High School, where he graduated with the Class of 1961. Bob's journey into adulthood led him to Capital City Barber College in Topeka, Kansas, where he honed his skills as a barber. He spent his early professional years working in Overland Park, for Wayne's Barber Shop and then at Overland Park Barber Shop. At these establishments is where he first became known for his kind demeanor and dedication to his customers.

On January 26, 1963, Bob married Marilyn Woltkamp at Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Seneca, a love that endured for over 60 years. Together, they raised three sons and built a life filled with love, laughter, and shared memories.

In 1969, Bob returned to Seneca, where he joined his father at Brinker Furniture and Appliance. When the store closed in 1983, he partnered with his brother, Steve, to open Brinker Home Furnishings, a business that became a cornerstone of the local community for nearly three decades until its closing in 2012. Bob was also a dedicated member of the Seneca community, serving on the City Council for a decade from 1973 to 1983. Bob's life was one that was rooted in family, community, and a love for his work.

Bob had a deep appreciation for baseball, which was reflected in his support and involvement with his three sons—Mark, Darren, and Jason. He cherished every moment spent coaching his boys, from Little League all the way through Legion Baseball. Throughout his life, Bob's love for gardening brought him joy and peace.

Beyond his family and career, Bob was a man of deep faith and devotion. He was a proud member of Sts. Peter & Paul Parish, where he was a member of the St. Joseph Society. His faith was reflected in his role as a communion minister, lay minister, and usher, positions he held with reverence for many years.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Elmer and Luella Brinker; an infant brother, Daniel; and his brother, Marvin.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Marilyn; three sons: Mark (Stephanie) of Leawood, Darren (Tina) of Shawnee, and Jason of Bloomington, Illinois; as well as three grandsons: Luke, Nathan, and Jack, and five granddaughters: Haylee, Hannah, Natalie, Madeline, and Gabrielle and a great granddaughter Daniela. He is also survived by his brothers, Steve (Bonnie) of Seneca and Larry (Ginger) of Topeka; and his sisters, Nancy Frehe and Myra (Jim) Runnebaum, both of Seneca; and numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

A rosary will be on Friday, March 7, 2025 at 7 P.M. at the Lauer Funeral Home in Seneca. The Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 AM Saturday, March 8, 2025 at Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Seneca.

Memorials can be given in Bob's memory are to be Sts. Peter and Paul School and or NVCH in Seneca sent in care of the family.