Robert Myers

Robert Russell Myers passed away January 29th, 2020, in Overland Park, Kansas, at the age of 96. He was born April 28th, 1923, to Noah Russell and Dessie Henderson Myers in Afton, Iowa. Robert is preceded in death by his older sister, Helen, his grandson, Brandon, and his wife of 71 years, Betty. A devout man of Christian faith, he went gladly to be with God.

Robert grew up in Afton, where he enjoyed the freedom to ride horses, fish, and hunt. In high school, he was known for his performance as a state clarinet soloist. He graduated from Afton High School in 1941 and from Iowa State University in 1944 with a degree in civil engineering.

Robert married his childhood sweetheart, Betty Mae Boyack, on February 6th, 1945. Shortly thereafter, he was deployed by the Navy to Pearl Harbor as an ensign, where he contributed to the nation’s Pacific campaign. After serving, he returned to Iowa, later moving his family to Overland Park. His work in civil engineering was key to the development of the Kansas City region and included a role in designing such projects as the Paseo Bridge, the Kansas and Kentucky turnpikes, the infrastructure surrounding Kauffman and Arrowhead stadiums, and many more. Known for his integrity, he was awarded Kansas Engineer of the Year in 1972.

Throughout his life, Robert’s prodigious memory and analytical skills helped him pursue his passions of traveling, golf, music, photography, computing, and storytelling. He was a regular contributor to his hometown newspaper, the Afton Star Enterprise. His numerous friends and family knew him to be a selfless, witty, and loyal person.

Robert and Betty were blessed with six children and their significant others: Ellen and Marty, Rick and Diana, Roger and Dot, Chris and Clay, Lisa and Doug, and Derek and Jane. They are survived by an additional nine grandchildren and ten great grandchildren.

Robert’s funeral service will be held Sunday, February 23rd, 2p.m., at Johnson County Funeral Chapel, 11200 Metcalf Ave., Overland Park, KS, 66210. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to his favorite charities: Doctors Without Borders, the National WWII Museum, and St. Jude.