Robert Lee "Bob" Markhart was promoted to glory on Thursday, November 14, 2013, with his family surrounding his bedside. He was born November 19, 1930, in Kingman, to Frank and M. Catherine Dunsworth Markhart.

He was a Senior Chief Boatswain's Mate in the United States Navy, serving our country for 26 years. He started his career with a tour in China, being a part of the International Fleet for the Queens Coronation and served 16 straight months in Vietnam. After his service career, Bob worked for Portsmouth, VA, sheriffs department for 20 years.

He was a member of the VFW Post #15048, American Legion Post #68, and the Navy Cruiser Sailors Association. Bob enjoyed his dog Bell, was a civil war buff, and a classic car fan. Motorcycle riding was a great pleasure of his that began when he was a young boy.

Robert married Mattie L. Evans on February 14, 2003, in Hutchinson. She survives.

Other survivors include: stepdaughter, Deborah Soloman, Colorado; stepson, Terry L. Markhart, Sterling; four step-grandchildren; two step-great-grandchildren; a sister, Betty J. Deboard, Perkin, IL; several nephews and nieces, including the "Georgia Peach" Mary Davison, Rita Markhart, and Juana Markhart.

He was preceded in death by his biological father, Spurgeon Heller, his parents, Frank and M. Catherine Markhart, stepson, Phillip O. Markhart, three brothers, Lester, Lawrence, and Raymond O. Markhart, and a sister, E. Marie Metsker.

Funeral will be at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, November 21, 2013, at Elliott Chapel, Hutchinson, with Pastor Tim Adrian presiding. Friends may call from 1 to 9 p.m. Tuesday and 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Wednesday Elliott Mortuary, Hutchinson, with the family to receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday. Burial will be in Hoosier Cemetery, rural Kingman County.

Memorials may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project, or The Hutchinson Animal Shelter, both in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 North Main, Hutchinson, KS, 67501.