Robert (Bob) Louis Helton, 78, passed away peacefully on July 27, 2026, in Little Rock, Arkansas, after a brief illness.

Bob was born on Dec. 16, 1947, in Pittsburg, Kansas, where he attended school and lived a life that reflected his adventurous spirit. He became a boxer, joined the local horse club, raced cars, and was always looking for the next adventure.

Bob married Martha Spencer as a teenager, and for 22 years they raised each other and their three daughters while he built a career as a truck driver and safety officer. After driving more than a million miles, Bob retired, married his best friend, Kerri, and began a new chapter of his life by starting his own construction company in Jacksonville, Arkansas. Together, Bob and Kerri recently celebrated their 34th wedding anniversary.

His greatest joys were being outside, riding his motorcycle, hunting, fishing, and spending time with those he loved.

Bob is survived by his loving wife, Kerri Helton; his sister, Jean Ann Hunt; his daughters, Trina Dillard, Jeannie Tomanetz, and Talaina Gregory (Jim), his stepdaughter TJ Mullani; his cherished grandchildren, Zachary, Cole, Kearstin, Katelyn, Riley, and Declan; his great-granddaughter, Delilah; and many nieces and nephews who loved him like a father. He will also be deeply missed by his three faithful companions, Freddie, Bailey, and Prissy.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William “Bud” Helton, Patricia Burdette, and his brothers, William “Bill” Helton and Mark E. Helton.

Bob will be remembered for his hardworking drive, his fearless nature, his quick wit, and the lifelong friendships he built wherever life took him. His love for family and friends, along with the memories he created, will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

A Celebration of Life will be held for family and friends on Saturday, Aug. 29, 2026, at The Lodge Event Center, 2312 W. 4th St., Pittsburg, Kansas, from 1 to 3 p.m., followed by a procession to Highland Park Cemetery at 3:30 p.m.