Robert S. Kish age 66 of Wheeling went home to be with the Lord on January 9, 2017 ushered in by the saints after a short illness. He was born on July 1, 1950, son of the late Stephen and Jewell (Betty Pethel) Kish. He was a member of Mountain View United Methodist Church, Mena, Arkansas, and the Warwood United Methodist Church in Wheeling, WV. The viewing will be from 9:00-1:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 12, 2017, with memorial service to follow at 1:00 p.m. at Kepner Funeral Home Burke Chapel. A private VFW burial will be held at a later date.
He spent his last precious moments alone with his wife, Nancy. Then he closed his eyes and entered Heaven. He left this earth showing everyone his love and his faith. He is better now; but he is so missed. A Cancer can take the strength from my legs, but when I cannot do it alone Nancy and my friends will lift me up and carry me, thank you Richard and Ed. Cancer can take from me my life, but not your love Nancy, as I will take your love with me, knowing that one day our God will reunite us for eternity.
Bob’s greatest passion was people and he always tried to see the good in everyone, never having met a stranger. He believed in actively serving his community and standing up for his fellow man. Bob was a leader for many and walked through life with broad shoulders. Bob attended Warwood High School and then joined the Army. Bob was a proud Vietnam Veteran. After graduating from West Liberty State College, he was excited to be an Associate Professor in HVAC at Belmont Technical College. He also worked many years in the HVAC field. Bob’s last employment was with the City of Benwood as Code Enforcement Officer, a job he truly loved.
He found it satisfying to serve and represent his fellow veterans. Above all, he enjoyed life. Bob chose to be a part of society and be friendly to everyone. He would extend his hand and tell his life story to a complete stranger in hopes to find common ground. He would tip a fast food worker, anticipating they needed money. Bob found happiness in his efforts to be charitable to people and organizations in need; giving his time, passion and energy to raise funds. He will be missed and remembered for his great sense of humor, willingness to help others and his devotion to the VFW.
At the time of his death Bob was West Virginia VFW State Commander and a Life Member of the Elm Grove Post 4442. He was a member of the Benwood American Legion Post 46 and a Life Member of Disabled American Veterans. Bob also served in the State of Arkansas as VFW District 8 Commander. American Legion District 13 Commander and American Legion Post 48 Commander. He also served as President of the American Legion Department of Arkansas American Legion Foundation. He was also Past President of the West Liberty Lions Club and Clearview Club Community Educational Outreach Service.
Robert is survived by a son, grandchildren, several cousins, sister-in-law, brother-in-law and his forever friend and wife Nancy.
