ROBERT DALE "DOC" FIKE, of North Platte, passed away February 9, 2026, at Linden Court in North Platte.
Robert was born December 8, 1933, in the Swabville community near Valley Falls, Kansas, to Harry and Alma A. (Hamon) Fike. He spent his early years between Kansas communities and attended school in the area. As a teenager, Robert was independent and adventurous; at age 15, he hitchhiked to California, where he worked for a time before returning to Kansas and spending two seasons following the harvest from Texas to Canada.
Robert proudly served his country in the United States Army, including service with the 82nd and 11th Airborne Divisions. He was stationed in Germany for 27 months. During his time overseas, he met the love of his life, Maria, who would become his wife. The two were married in Augsburg, Germany, in March of 1957.
Following his military discharge, Robert returned to the United States and lived in Kansas for a period before moving to Nebraska, residing near Sutherland, north of Arthur, and eventually settling in Paxton, where he made his home for many years. He worked in ranching, driving truck, and in most recent years, as a machinist. He was especially fond of ranch work and hunting, taking quiet satisfaction in a good dog and time spent outdoors.
Robert was affectionately known as "Doc," a nickname that followed him throughout his life. As a boy, he spent time with a grandfather who cared for stray dogs and cats, an example that left a lasting impression on Robert, who wanted to imitate him.
Robert was a member of the American Legion and a lifetime member of VFW Post 3755, which was something he was always proud of.
Robert was preceded in death by his wife; his parents; and brothers, Harry, Francis, Duane "Buck," and Jim Fike.
Survivors include his dear friends, Larry and Vickie Ostrander of Paxton, Tom and Penny McFadden of Sutherland, and JoNelle Locke; brother, Tim Fike of KS; nieces and nephews; along with many other relatives and friends in the U.S. and Germany.
Funeral Mass will be celebrated Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at 10 a.m. at St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Paxton, with Father Suresh Bandha as Celebrant. Interment with military honors will be at Fort McPherson National Cemetery.
A Rosary and Wake Service will be held on Monday at 6:00 p.m. at St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Paxton.
Memorials are suggested to the St. Patrick's Catholic Church or to the American Heart Association. Condolences may be shared at prairiehillsfuneralhome.com, where the Mass will be streamed live.
Prairie Hills Funeral Home of Ogallala is in charge of arrangements.