Robert “Bob” Eugene O’Mara, 67, of Arkansas City, Kansas and formerly of Wichita, Kansas, left this world on September 21st, 2019 due to natural causes. Bob was born to Andrew “Michael” and Mary O’Mara on her birthday, June 2, 1952, in Wichita, Kansas. He used to brag that he was his mother’s best birthday gift; as one of ten kids, that brag was a pretty big deal!
Bob was a free spirit. He was creative, adventurous, and had a wonderful sense of humor. His creativity took many forms. Bob wrote a lot of short stories, poems, and prayers. He enjoyed wood carving and created something for everyone. He was amazing at drywall and could make drywall mud look like marble. He helped rebuild and remodel Lawrence-Dumont Stadium in Wichita. Bob was a member of the Craftmasters: a unique group of artists and skilled construction builders. His mind was always busy and he had several impressive inventions.
Bob adored his family, friends, and animals. He would have done anything for his children. Bob would offer to pray for you in your time of need. He knew his way to the Catholic Church in any town he stayed.
He was known for his quick wit, infectious smile, kindness and compassion towards all people. He knew no strangers.
When it came to coffee, Bob loved the good, the bad, and the ugly. He loved to frequent coffee shops, where he teased the waitresses and talked shop with the guys, all over bottomless cups of joe. He will be missed by all.
Some cherished memories are:
Bob called the White House demanding to speak to the president, to no avail.
Going to Florida last year to attend his youngest son’s wedding and be with all his kids.
Sitting on a rooftop in downtown Wichita and listening to the Willie Nelson concert, even though we didn’t have tickets.
Getting to drive his truck in the parking lot, at the end of the street, as a kid.
Traveling for baseball.
He said “Praise the Lord!”
Bob is survived by his children: Derek Coley (wife, Lori Coley, and Bob’s only grandchild, Ashlynn Coley, and her partner, Bobby Lovings), Jennifer Ryan, Annie O’Mara (partner, Carl Granger), Joseph O’Mara, and Cody O’Mara (wife, Emma O’Mara).
Bob is survived by his siblings: Mary Ann Clasen, Warren “Lou” O’Mara, Eileen Petersen, Carolyn Rosenhamer, Cathy Friess, Patty Meyer, Ed O’Mara, Paul O’Mara, and bother-in-law, Ron Baird.
Bob’s extended surviving family are adoptive sons: Kelly Coley, and Kyle and Mike McNally (sons of Bob’s late friend, Mark McNally). Special thanks to Kyle McNally for all the time and care he gave to Bob.
Bob is also survived by many in-laws, nieces, nephews, friends and family too numerous to mention, but not forgotten.
Bob was reunited with his parents Andrew “Michael” and Mary O’Mara; his sister, Virginia “Ginger” Baird; brothers-in-law, Richard Meyer and Matt Clasen; his very good friend, Mark McNally; and many, many pets, because after all, all dogs go to Heaven.
A Memorial Mass with Rosary will be held at Saint Joseph Catholic Church at 145 S. Millwood, Wichita, Kansas 67213, on October 19, 2019 starting at 10am.
In lieu of flowers, and due to Bob’s love for animals, we ask that those who wish to give, please donate to Wichita Animal Action League. Donations may be made in either of the following ways:
Wichita Animal Action League
P.O. Box 21401
Wichita, KS 67208
(Please include “In memory of Bob O’Mara” in the subject line of the check)
Or via the web at:
https://WAALRescue.org
