Robert Dolezilek 1948-2026
Robert Lee Dolezilek, 77, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Thursday, May 7, 2026.
Bob was born on Aug. 11, 1948, in Rossville, the son of Frank and Cecilia (Besta) Dolezilek. He graduated from Rossville High School in 1966.
Bob met Diana Morford after high school and they were later married in January of 1971; she preceded him in death on June 26, 2023. Bob and Diana moved to Holton in 1974 and proceeded to raise three children, taking great pride in their various achievements.
Bob spent 42 years at the Goodyear Tire and Rubber Factory in Topeka, where he was a member of Rubber Workers Union 307, serving as union steward during his tenure. He was respected for his strong work ethic, loyalty and commitment to standing up for his fellow workers.
Bob was proud of his Czech heritage and was deeply involved with Moravan Lodge No. 128, also known as Bohemian Hall, where he served as president and oversaw financial and foundational improvements, facilitated events and promoted Czech culture. He especially loved attending and hosting polka dances since childhood.
Bob was an active participant in the Rossville High School Alumni Association and was involved in the association’s efforts, which now provide more than five scholarships annually to deserving students. This dedication helped strengthen opportunities for future generations in the community.
Bob’s favorite times were at social gatherings, sporting events, a good supper and spending time with friends and family. Known for his warm spirit and outgoing personality, Bob never met a stranger and was known for his kindness, humor and wit.
Bob’s legacy of hard work, community involvement, cultural pride and friendship will live on in the many lives he touched. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by his family, friends and community. His legacy of community service and cultural preservation will continue to inspire those who knew him.
Bob is survived by his three children, sons Shawn (Julie) Dolezilek and Chris (Kathleen Heaney) Dolezilek, both of Topeka, and daughter Julie Cordero of Kansas City, Mo. Further surviving relatives include a brother-in-law, Arthur Morford of Topeka; sisters-in-law, Deborah (Richard) Beasterfeld of Maple Hill, Jean Holt of Holton and Nancy Morford of St. Marys; and a grandson, Gavin Christopher.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Diana Dolezilek; parents Frank and Cecilia Dolezilek; and brothers Ernest Dolezilek, George Dolezilek and Gerald Dolezilek.
Visitation will be held from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Friday, May 15 at Piper Funeral Home in St. Mary’s. Funeral services will begin at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, May 16 at Piper Funeral Home, after which Bob will be laid to rest at the Czech-Moravian Cemetery outside of Rossville.
Memorial contributions can be made to the Holton Senior Center in Jackson County or the Rossville Alumni Association.
Condolences can be sent online to www.piperfuneralhome.com
(PAID OBITUARY)
