Robert C. Handke

Robert C. Handke, age 99, of Atchison, Kansas, passed away Friday, September 18, 2026, at Atchison Medicalodge.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be on Saturday, September 26, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Patrick’s Church. A rosary will be Friday, September 25, at 5:30 p.m., with visitation to follow from 6:00–7:30 p.m. at the Arensberg-Pruett Funeral Home. He will be laid to rest at St. Patrick’s Cemetery. Memorials are suggested to the Atchison County Community Schools Education Fund in care of the funeral home.

Robert was born on January 13, 1927, to Edward Handke and Emma (Spear) Handke. He attended Atchison County Community Schools and graduated in 1945. While in high school, due to the shortage of adult men during WWII, Bob became one of the student bus drivers during his junior and senior years. The only requirements were to have a chauffeur’s license, be of good character, and live at the end of the route.

On June 6, 1949, he married Frances Navinskey. One of his most important roles in life was being a loving husband, and he cherished every moment of their more than 76 years together until Frances passed before him on February 22, 2026.

Robert was a farmer, a machinist for over twenty years, and an over-the-road semi driver for twenty-two years. His true passion for custom harvesting began in 1946 when he was part of Felix Ernzens Custom Harvesting crew. Ernzen had purchased the first self-propelled combine in Atchison County, a Massey Harris 21A, which sparked Bob’s love for custom harvesting.

From there, Bob, Frances, and his children traveled across the United States from May to September each year with their custom harvesting business. At one point, their operation included a crew of 19 and six combines. For over 50 years, custom harvesting became not only Bob’s livelihood, but a way of life for his family.

At the age of 16, he learned to fly from Pete Bailey. He acquired his private pilot’s license in 1956 and purchased the first of many planes in 1957. The stories and memories he made while flying are never-ending, and he always made sure to share his love of flying with everyone.

Robert was hardworking and determined throughout his life, with a stubborn streak that those who knew him well came to know and love. He loved having the opportunity to teach his children and grandchildren life lessons throughout his long, blessed life. His life was filled with hard work, adventure, family, and memories that will continue to be shared for generations.

He is survived by his children, Gary Handke, Wayne (Terri) Handke, Robert James Handke, Glen (Jennie) Handke, Phil Handke, Peggy (Ron) Lutz and Karen (Nelson) Birkinsha; twenty-one grandchildren; thirty-seven great-grandchildren; and five great-great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife; daughters-in-law, Kathy Handke and Angela Handke; sisters, Adella Handke, Erma Bolick, June Kautz and Frances Williamson; and brother, James Handke.