Robert Lyle (Bob) Hein of McCook, Nebraska was born in Fort Morgan, Colorado, on November 10, 1939 to Harry and Frieda Hein. He went to his heavenly home on April 4, 2024. He grew up near Culbertson and graduated from Culbertson High School in 1957. Bob married Janet Eileen (Jan) Ficken at Salem Lutheran Church in Elwood, Nebraska on June 17, 1960. They were married for nearly 64 years. With his forever love, Jan, those who will carry Bob’s memory include his daughter, Laura and her husband, Thomas Preston of Omaha; son, Randall and his wife, Dana Evans Hein of Overland Park; and his beloved grandchildren, Katherine Eileen Preston and Evan William Robert Hein. Bob will also be remembered dearly by his sister, Janice Kraus; brother, Eugene Baumfalk; and many other nephews, nieces, relatives, and cherished friends. He joins in heaven his father and mother; brother, Gerald Hein; stepmother, Hannah Hein (Baumfalk); and siblings, Joan Baumfalk and Kenneth Baumfalk.
Bob worked at a meat-packing plant prior to enlisting in the United States Army, serving from 1962-65 and achieving the rank of Spc-4. After completing signal training in Atlanta, Georgia, Bob served as a communications specialist in Korea and became a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars. He joined the Burlington Northern Pacific Railroad (later BNSF) and first worked as a wire chief. Over 37 years, he held many different positions at BNSF before retiring in 2001. While working full time, Bob graduated from Kearney College in 1969 with a bachelor’s degree in Business. Bob had an unwavering faith and was a member of the Lutheran Church his entire life, where he served on church councils and volunteered often.
As he did with his children, Bob loved nothing more than spending time and doing projects together with his grandchildren. They will never forget sharing root beer floats, Klondike bars, or some cherry pie with ice cream. An expert genealogy researcher, Bob assembled extensive family trees and many records for us to cherish and enjoy. He loved being in his McCook community, and he loved music. Spending time outdoors and in his yard also brought Bob great joy. If there is a lawn and garden in heaven, it will be in perfect shape when we greet him again.
The best and biggest hugs in the world came from Bob. His gentle spirit, generosity, and joyfulness were immeasurable. More than anything he adored and took care of his family, all of whom are forever grateful for who he was and the many blessings and memories he left behind.
Memorials are suggested to a charity of the donor’s choice or to the family of Robert Hein for designation toward something important to Bob.
Visitation hours are Thursday April 11 from 10AM to 6PM. Family will be present from 4PM to 6PM at Herrmann-Jones Funeral Chapel in McCook.
Funeral service will be held at 11AM, Friday April 12 at Peace Lutheran Church in McCook with Pastor Lonnie Felcher officiating, followed by interment at Memorial Park Cemetery with full military honors. A luncheon at Peace Lutheran Church will follow.
Online condolences may be left at herrmannfh.com/obituary/robert-bob-hein. Arrangements have been entrusted to Herrmann-Jones Funeral Chapel of McCook.