Robert E Lee Mainus

Robert lived his life “in the moment, on the edge,” embracing each day with grit, humor, and authenticity. Known for his strong work ethic and independent spirit, he built a life centered around hard work, family, and the things he loved most.

A talented woodworker, Robert took great pride in starting his own business, creating custom cabinets, furniture, and other handcrafted pieces. His craftsmanship reflected not only his skill, but also his patience and dedication. He was a teacher by example, passing down his knowledge of woodworking and the value of hard work to those around him.

Robert found joy in the simple and meaningful things in life; fishing, writing songs, playing guitar, training horses, riding motorcycles, and boxing. He had a sharp sense of humor and loved laughter, even if it sometimes came with a mischievous edge. Above all, he cherished time spent with his family.

He loved music, especially artists like Tom Petty, Dwight Yoakam, Billy Squier, and AC/DC, and held a deep appreciation for the song “Jesus Loves Me.” His favorite colors, wood tones and green, reflected his connection to nature and his craft.

Robert is preceded in death by his brother Scott Baichtal; children Marry Mainus, Joe David Mainus, and James Danial Mainus; grandchild Donna Hulbert; his father George Mainus; and grandparents George Mainus, Mamie (Whitney) Mainus, Robert Downing and Isabelle (Joyce) Downing.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Cara Mainus, and his children: George Mainus and wife Ashley, Amie Mainus and partner Mark Burleson, Bobbie Mainus, Paige Mainus, and Hunter Mainus. He also lovingly embraced Ashley Brown as a stepdaughter and Bradly Brown and wife Traciann as a stepson and stepdaughter in law. Robert was a proud grandfather to Faith Hulbert, Hope Hulbert, Alexis Mainus, Danielle Mainus, Madison Perez-Mainus, Gabriel Perez-Mainus, Julius Perez-Mainus, Caiden Burley, Clayton Burley, Nate Burleson, Savannah Burleson, Ella Gardener, Peyton Brown, Emma Brown, and Anthony Burleson. He is also survived by his mother Nancy Newth; siblings Tina Blixt, Tammy Wilcher, Robin Beavers, Georgia Winn (Mainus), J. Deann Crowley, Sharon Banta, and Deborah Mainus; best friend Boo Crittenden and wife Cheryl; and a host of extended friends and family.

Robert was born to George Mainus and Nancy Newth (Downing) and was shaped by a large and blended family that included stepmothers Anita Mainus and Sharon (Kay) Mainus, and extended relatives who remained important throughout his life.

Robert will be remembered as a hard worker, a man who built his life with his own hands, and someone who loved deeply, even if he didn’t always say it outright. His legacy lives on in the family he cherished, the lessons he passed down, and the work he created.

Visitation will be held at Primrose Funeral Service, 3901 N Flood Ave., Norman, OK 73069, US, on March 26, 2026, from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm. A Celebration of Life will be held at Primrose Funeral Service, 3901 N Flood Ave., Norman, OK 73069, US, on March 27, 2026, at 10:00 am.