Robert Duane Ekberg

Robert “Bob” Duane Ekberg, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully on July 1, 2025, at the age of 96, at Prairie Senior Living Complex in Colby, Kansas.

Born on August 7, 1928, to Morris and Merle Ekberg, Bob was raised on the family farm where he cultivated a lifelong connection to the land. He graduated from Levant High School in 1946, where he played basketball and later continued playing on the town team.

After graduation, he dedicated himself to farming the family land, carrying on a tradition close to his heart. In 1957, Bob began working at McKee Sheet Metal, where he built a steady and respected career until his retirement in 1991.

On June 17, 1949, he eloped with the love of his life, Dixie Lee Upchurch, to Raton, New Mexico. Together, they raised six children: Gerald, Penny, Janet, Scott, Alicia, and Julie, who was born sleeping.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, his daughter, and many other beloved family members.

He is survived by his children, Gerald (Nikki) Ekberg of Burlington, CO; Penny Fryback of Colby; Janet Ekberg (Jim Hinton) of Colby; Scott (Karen) Ekberg of Great Bend, KS; Alicia (Eric) Moore of Colby; 13 grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren; and 3 great-great-grandchildren.

Known for his strong work ethic, quiet wisdom, and steady presence, Bob cherished the simple joys in life — a good basketball game, a hearty meal, and quality time with family and friends.

Dad always said, “I was the luckiest man in the world until 2016, and then life was just no fun.” (When Dixie passed.) His legacy lives on in the generations he helped shape and in the hearts of those who loved him.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, July 6, 2025, from 4:00 to 6:00 pm at Baalmann Mortuary, Colby, KS. The memorial service will be held Monday, July 7, 2025, at 11:00 am, also at the Mortuary. His final resting place will be Beulah Cemetery in Colby, Kansas. Memorials may be made to the NWKS Foundation for HOPE or the Levant Community Church and sent in care of Baalmann Mortuary, PO Box 391, Colby, KS 67701. For information or condolences visit baalmannmortuary.com