Bob Schmanke 1949-2022

Robert Milton Schmanke of Olathe passed away on Saturday, Feb. 5, 2022, at the age of 72.

Bob was born on Feb. 17, 1949, in Manhattan, to Victor and Mildred (Scott) Schmanke. He was a graduate of Alma High School in 1967. After attending Kansas State University for a short time, he felt called to join the Marines, where he served for two years before returning to K-State, where he graduated in May 1973 with a bachelor’s degree in biology. Bob went on to earn a master’s degree in education at K-State in 1974.

While attending K-State, Bob met the love of his life, Gayla (Gilliland) on a blind date. They married in May of 1971 and had the opportunity to travel overseas to Sydney, Australia, where Bob taught science for almost two years. After returning home to Kansas, Bob and Gayla were blessed with two sons, Brian in 1976 and Darin in 1978. Bob went on to teach science at Holton Middle School in Holton, where the couple settled with their family.

Bob joined Kansas State Bank, later Holton National Bank, as a lending officer and worked the rest of his career in banking, retiring in 2011 as senior vice president and chief operations officer. After retirement, Bob and Gayla moved to Olathe in order to spend more time with their children and grandchildren.

Bob is preceded in death by his parents, Victor and Mildred.

Bob is survived by his wife, Gayla; two sons Brian (Terrilyn) and Darin (Gretchen), both of Overland Park; and four grandchildren, Sydney, Ethan, Maya and Nolan. He is also survived by four siblings, Mary Ann Schroeder, Shirley Pryor, Kenneth Schmanke and Gerry Schmanke.

Out of respect for Bob’s wishes, the family will have a small, private service. In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, a cause which is close to their hearts.

For more, visit www.PenwellGabelKC.com

(PAID OBITUARY)