Robert Bruce Remke

Robert Bruce Remke passed away in Hays, Kansas on Sunday, June 14, 2026.

He was born March 26, 1944 in Charleston, West Virginia, the only child of Robert August Remke and Lucille Vivian Workman. He attended West Virginia University and graduated from West Virginia Tech. He met the love of his life, Donna Jane Smith at WVU. They married April 9, 1966 where he was welcomed into a large extended family that was full of love and music. After he enlisted in the Army Security Agency, he was trained at the Defense Language Institute in the Korean language. He was stationed in Korea and Japan serving from 1966-1970. Upon returning he completed his degree at West Virginia Tech in Music Education. While his degree began in music his career shifted to laboratory science. A lover of learning, he always had a new book or musical instrument in his hands. He revered and respected nature on all levels. He loved the tiniest details in art, word and song. He loved traveling the country with Donna to visit new places and their children and grandchildren always in search of the perfect rock. Bruce participated in townbands for over 40 years including Lawrence, Kansas, Bonne, North Carolina and Linville Land Harbor, NC playing: trombone, euphonium or french horn. He was a devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints serving faithfully in multiple callings including leadership roles but he was happiest playing the piano for the children in Primary. 

Bruce is survived by his beloved wife of 60 years, Donna Jane Smith Remke and his children Jennifer (Matt) Toland, Sarah Harris, Joel (Cindy) Remke, Sharon (Ryan) Edge, Joy (Michael) Watson, 15 devoted grandchildren and 1 great grandchild on the way.

Memories and words of comfort may be shared with Bruce’s family on his tribute page via: www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com