It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Robert Michael Hambright on April 7, 2026. Bob departed this life at the age of 78, surrounded by the love of his wife and daughter in the comfort of his home in Wichita, Kansas, after a valiant three-year battle with colon cancer. Born on December 3, 1947, in Austin, Minnesota, Bob was the cherished son of Christina (Johlke) Handrahan and Robert Felix Hambright.

He was preceded in death by his beloved parents and his dear siblings, Margaret Svien and Joe VanRyan and Donna Hinker. His sisters Marion Koss, Aloma Wilde, and brother Rick VanRyn reside in Minnesota.

His legacy and spirit continue to thrive through his devoted wife, Patricia Ellen Hambright, who stood by his side for over 54 years, and their four children: Jenny Rene Ash and husband Cloyd, Karla Michelle Gregg and husband James, Kyle Robert Hambright and wife Rebekah, and Sara Lynn Cherry and husband Joe. Bob, affectionately known as Papa Bob, was a beacon of love and wisdom to his 14 grandchildren—Melyssa, Joe, Phillip, Josh, Aspen, Jayden, Azalia, Kiera, Xander, Taegan, Nico, Gino, Bella, and Gianna—and his seven great-grandchildren—Kasey, Yara, Veda, Atlas, Apollo, Freya and Westin. Each of them carries a piece of his heart and the values he instilled in them.

Educated with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Bob's commitment to serving others was evident throughout his life. He served his country with honor in the United States Air Force, where he applied his nursing skills in places like Okinawa, Japan. His career in healthcare spanned many years, including service at the VA Hospital in Cheyenne, Wyoming, and later traveled for nursing, where he touched countless lives with his compassionate care and expertise. Bob was not only a caregiver but also a man of great passion and diverse interests. An avid woodworker, he crafted heirlooms that will be cherished by his family and friends. His storytelling was legendary, captivating family and friends with tales rich with humor, wisdom and insight. He found joy in the simple pleasures of reading, gardening, and the open road, often found riding his motorcycle with the Christian Motorcyclist Association Run for the Son. As an active member of the association, he served as area-rep in Texas and president and other positions in Wyoming and Kansas. He spent many weekends participating in motorcycle activities, sharing his faith and enthusiasm for life. A dedicated member of his church community, Bob was a familiar face at prayer meetings and as a welcoming greeter on Sunday mornings. His faith was the cornerstone of his life, guiding his actions and interactions with others.

In lieu of flowers the family suggests making a donation to the Christian Motorcyclist Association Run for the Son.

Visitation will be from 10A.M. - 5:00 P.M. Wednesday, April 15, 2026, at Baker Funeral Home West.

Funeral services will be held on April 16, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at West Evangelical Free Church, located at 1161 North Maize Road, Wichita, KS. Family, friends, and all whose lives were touched by Bob are invited to join in commemorating a life well-lived. Interment to follow at Kansas Veterans Cemetery, Winfield, KS.