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Robert Cobb Obituary
Dr. Cobb came to the University of Kansas in 1957 an assistant professor of English and rose through the ranks, from full professor to Dean of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, eventually becoming Executive Vice Chancellor of the University. He helped establish the Nunemaker Program for gifted students. He helped establish a cooperative exchange program with the University of Benin in Lagos, Nigeria. He was instrumental in establishing the African Studies department at the University. He always retained his love of teaching and learning. He also helped establish the Lawrence chapter of Habitat for Humanity. Those wishing to make a contribution in Dr. Cobb's honor are encouraged to donate to the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences through the KU Endowment Association, Plymouth Congregational Church or Habitat for Humanity.
Dr. Cobb married Janice Rogers on August 27, 1949. She survives him, as do their two children and three grandchildren. Dr. Cobb's only sibling predeceased him by 40 years, and he became the extended family's patriarch, a role he relished. He will be missed.
Memorial services will be 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, June 14, 2017 at Plymouth Congregational Church.
A family-only inurnment in KU's Pioneer Cemetery at a later date will permit family from afar to attend.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Robert Cobb
Betsy Leonard
June 3, 2023
Miss you, Uncle Bob! You were always there for us and such a delightful man! Miss you and Aunt Janice.
Randy Cobb
June 3, 2020
I miss you Uncle Bob and think of you often. I imagine you and Roger have reunited since he passed away in January. Thinking of you and Janice.
Love Randy
July 5, 2017
Mary & George Clausen
July 5, 2017
Dr. George & Mary Clausen
Barbara Ferne
June 26, 2017
So sad not having been able to hug you one more time before you stole away. Thank you, Bob, for keeping the family together across the ocean, for always welcoming your grandson Rafael and me, his mother. Thank you for your kindness, calmness, humour and generosity. I miss you.
Barbara
Pioneer Ridge
June 26, 2017
Mr.Cobb was always a wonderful person to say hello to and look through his photo album with. We always thought he looked like a movie star in his Navy uniform! Wonderful man,
his presence will be missed. Sincerest Condolences to the Cobb family on behalf of the Pioneer Ridge Assisted Living staff.
Betty Mitscher
June 16, 2017
I will always remember how helpful Bob was to my husband and the Department of Medicinal Chemistry.
John Conard, Jr.
June 15, 2017
I don't think there was anyone at KU that my parents admired or respected more than Dr. Cobb.
Louis Burmeister
June 14, 2017
Rosalyn and I were sad to learn that "Bob" is no longer with us. May he rest in peace. Our sympathy is offered to Janice.
Sandra Wick
June 13, 2017
So sad to hear of this. One of the finest I ever met and worked with at KU.
Juli Viebrock
June 13, 2017
My condolences to the family. Thinking of you all, especially KC
Eugenia Bryan
June 12, 2017
Robert Cobb was an extraordinary man; his devotion to his family was always inspirational. For all in the Sullivan family, our deepest condolences to Janice, Kathy, Chris, and family.
June 12, 2017
My thoughts are with you all during this difficult time. Peace be with you
Susie Rockhold
June 12, 2017
I am sorry for your loss. May prayer comfort you.
1 Thessalonians 5:17 "Pray constantly."
benji Wyatt
June 12, 2017
I will remember Bob Cobb with fondness because when I was a young pharmacist working at Raney Hillcrest Drug in Lawrence, Kansas he often came by to chat with me. He liked to tease me about being from Calico Rock,Arkansas. He was a delightful, intelligent , humorous person. Benji Wyatt
Betsy (Cobb) Leonard
June 9, 2017
I will miss you dearly, Uncle Bob. You always were a living reminder of my dad, your brother, Grover. It always gave me and my family great joy when we visited you and Aunt Janice! Your stories and family memories were so heartwarming and funny.! Thank you for being there for all of us through the years. Say "hi" to dad!
Randy Cobb
June 9, 2017
I am so very saddened by Uncle Bob's passing. My siblings and I have so many wonderful memories of the times we spent with Uncle Bob, Aunt Janice, Chris and Cathy. Uncle Bob was so intelligent and articulate but at the same time he had a great sense of humor. Most of all he loved and adored Janice. This gentle and soft spoken man will be sorely missed by all who knew him. Rock Chalk Uncle Bob.
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Rumsey-Yost Funeral Home & Crematory601 Indiana Street, Lawrence, KS 66044
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