Robert Gelman

It is with deep sadness that we mourn the loss Robert L. “Bob” Gelman 91 on Saturday, January 16, 2021 in Austin, Texas. Bob was the beloved husband for 66 years of Bernadine (Bernie); cherished father of Keith (Josephine) Gelman and daughters, Debra (Carol) Gelman and Karen Chanon; and much-loved grandfather of Josephine Gelman, Victor Gelman, Jacci Prywes (Josh), Reid Chanon, and Ryan Chanon. Bob grew up in Wichita, Kansas and was a member Congregation Emanu-El throughout his whole life. He loved ‘all things Jewish.’ Bob managed the care of the Highland Cemetery Jewish grounds for 20 years. While attending the University of Oklahoma with Bernie, he was a member of the fraternity Zeta Beta Tau. He had a very successful business, Kansas Truck Equipment which he co-owned with his brother-in-law Sterling (Bob) Friedman for 40 years. Bob will be remembered as being outgoing, playful, and finding humor in everything. He loved to tell jokes and share stories with others. He appreciated life and was dedicated to participating fully in it. A memorial has been established with Congregation Emanu-El Building Fund, 1850 N. Woodlawn, Wichita 67208. Graveside Service will be at 10:00 am, Wednesday, January 20, 2021, at Congregation Emanu-El Cemetery, within Highland Cemetery. Service will be recorded and available to view here, at www.dlwichita.com, following its completion. Services in care of Downing & Lahey Mortuary - East Chapel.