HAFNER, Robert Howard - b. March 29, 1940 - d. June 23, 2023

[patyrn]

Robert Howard Hafner, age 83, of Independence, Kansas, passed away of a sudden illness on June 23, 2023.  He was born March 29, 1940 and grew up in Belle Fourche, South Dakota.

Howard, fondly known as Buck by some of his friends, was blessed with good coordination and quick reflexes and played football, basketball, track, and even tried boxing at one time.  He met and married Vava Bevans and had three children, Jacalyn, Romy, and Nicole Hafner. 

Howard trained at the Mayo Clinic and received his degree as a Physical Therapist.  He worked as a Physical Therapist for over 50 years and enjoyed helping people while still making jokes and having fun.  He will be remembered for his cheery disposition and dry wit.

He and Vava later divorced, and he married Connie (Juaire) Hughes on May 8, 1990.  They had 33 good years together.  He was an avid golfer and loved the golfing community.  People remember Howard riding his motorcycle to the golf course with his golf clubs balanced on his motorcycle.  His life revolved around golfing, his strong friendships, and family.

Howard is survived by his wife, Connie; his daughters, Jacalyn Hafner, Romy Hafner, and Nicole Hafner, Vonda Hughes, and Cher (Hughes) Brown; three grandchildren, Rylan Romans, Nicholas Romans, and Lucas Bass; and three great-grandchildren, Reece Romans and Ryla Romans. 

Cremation has taken place, and there will be no funeral services per Howard's wishes.  To leave a message for the family, please visit www.dwbfh.com.  David W. Barnes Funeral Home of Coffeyville, Kansas has been entrusted with arrangements.

(taken from the David W. Barnes Funeral Home website)
...
Connie (Juaire) Hafner grew up in Howard and graduated from Howard High School in 1965.  She is the daughter of the late Wanda Dilli and Jean Juaire.