Robert E. Wilper

Robert Edward Wilper, age 58, of Garnett, Kansas, passed away on Sunday, May 22, 2016, The House at Midland Care, in Topeka, Kansas. Robert Wilper was born Klaus Ewe Kaulen on March 23, 1958 in Cologne, Germany. Edward John and Agnes Mae (Korte) Wilper adopted Klaus Ewe and Ralf Joseph on October 26, 1962 and loved them with all their hearts. Robert attended school first through sixth grade at the two room school house in Harris, Kansas before attending Irving Junior High School in Garnett, Kansas. Robert graduated from Garnett High School in 1976. Robert was very athletic as a youth participating in sports including football and softball. He attended Kansas State University. Robert held many positions in work and life. He was a farmer, an over-the road truck driver, where he saw the country far and wide, limo-driver, roofer, mover, painter, artist and writer, almost an infinite set of skills; so much unrealized talent. At the Topeka Rescue Mission, he fulfilled many jobs that brought him much pride and gratification. No matter what his endeavors, Robert considered it critical to do a meticulous job. He was a free spirit, a warrior and lived life for the moment. He brought joy to so many with his infectious personality and sense of humor. He would help anyone and everyone. His years as the manager/soundman/bus driver/guardian/General for The Backsliders, Lawrence, Kansas, were his best years. He gave his family unconditional and limitless love. He took so much pride in his life on the farm. His artistic talents again shined through when he began taking old iron wheels and sanding them down and painting them red, white and blue. They decorated the yard of the family farm and are an enduring reflection of his love and devotion to family and country. He was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Agnes Wilper; and brother, Ralph Wilper. Robert is survived by his sister, Iona (Ina) Wilper of Flagstaff, Arizona; close cousins, Lee and Monica Wilper of Emerald, Kansas; Aunt Mary Catherine Korte of Lawrence, Kansas, as well as numerous cousins and other family members. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m., on Friday, May 27, 2016, at St. Patrick's Catholic Church, Emerald, and burial to follow at St. Patrick's Cemetery. A Rosary will be held at the church on Thursday evening at 7:00 p.m. with visitation to follow. Memorial contributions may be made to The House at Midland Care Connection or to the St. Patrick's Cemetery Fund. You may send your condolences to the family at www.feuerbornfuneral.com .