Robert L. Wessel
Robert L. Wessel was born to Libo and Elsie (Schwarz) Wessel May 29, 1939, at the family farm near Selden, Kansas. He passed away November 10, 2026, surrounded by his family in Hoxie, Kansas.
Robert was one of nine children and a lifelong resident of Sheridan County. He graduated from Selden High School and proudly served in the United States Army before returning home to work on the family farm. Farming was a way of life for Robert, and he spent most of his years working the land in the community he always called home.
On June 4, 1966, Robert married Patsy Hrabe at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Selden, Kansas. Together they raised four children: Bobby, Thresia, Donna, and Mark. Robert was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. His family was his greatest pride and joy, and he was, in their eyes, the best husband, dad, and grandpa, anyone could ask for.
Robert was a member of the Knights of Columbus, Selden American Legion, Sacred Heart Catholic Church, and the Senior Citizens. He enjoyed the simple pleasures in life, including playing cards, Bingo, and Yahtzee. He also enjoyed planting flowers and took pride in watching them grow.
After many years on the family farm, Robert and Patsy eventually made plans to move into Selden. Robert had promised Patsy that once they sold the farm, they would make their home in town. True to his word, they made the move four years ago, allowing Robert to remain close to the community he had called home his entire life. He especially enjoyed the simple pleasures of each day, whether visiting with friends who stopped by or spending time at the Senior Center playing cards, sharing stories, and enjoying good conversation. These friendships and familiar gatherings remained an important part of his daily life.
Robert was preceded in death by his parents; son, Bobby Wessel; brothers John and Art Wessel; sisters, Kathryn Schieferecke and Mary Dellere; brothers-in-law Rick Hickert and Gene Blaske; and sister-in-law Karla Wessel
He is survived by his wife, Patsy Wessel of Selden; daughters, Thresia (Greg) Weber and Donna (Lee) Tremblay, and son Mark Wessel, all of Salina; grandchildren, Tyler (Michaela) Irwin, Braden "Sky" Irwin, Jace Irwin and fiancé Haylee, Bailey Weber, and Riley Weber; and great-grandson, Oliver Irwin. He is also survived by his brother, Bill (Carol) Wessel of Dresden; sisters, Margie Blaske of Salina, Martha (Fred) Wassemiller of Monument, and Betty Hickert (John Milner) of Selden; brothers-in-law, Bill Schieferecke of Studley and Jim Dellere of Salina; along with many extended family members and friends.
Robert will be remembered for his dedication to his family, his love of farming, his enjoyment of a good card game, and the many special memories he created with those he loved. Above all, he will be remembered as a loving husband, wonderful father, and proud grandfather. His presence will be deeply missed, but his love and memories will live on in the hearts of his family and friends.
Visitation will be Thursday, November 12, 2026, from 3:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Mickey-Leopold Funeral Home, with family greeting friends from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m. A Vigil and Rosary will follow the visitation at 7:00 p.m.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Friday, November 13, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Selden, Kansas, with burial following at Selden City Cemetery.