SALINA – Robert Eugene Wahaus, 85, of Salina passed away Monday, January 11, 2021. He was born September 2, 1935 to Eugene H. and Mabel R. (Meyers) Wahaus at Hoisington, Kansas. In his youth years Robert shined shoes and mopped stores. Robert married Judith Elaine (Arends) on November 23, 1973.

Robert was in management for Safeway and Food Barn Stores for 38 years. He retired from Food Barn at 55 years of age. Then Food Barn asked him to return to supervise the opening of a new store in Topeka. After his retirement, Robert worked at Pop-A-Shot and Heart of America camp.

Robert was a member of Knights of Columbus, 3rd Degree. He enjoyed the cooking, setting up meals, all kitchen helping, tootsie pop contributions, and being Santa Claus for 30 years. In church he was a greeter, usher and helped his wife coordinating Lent soups, suppers and attended several religious classes. Fishing was a favorite activity. He enjoyed maintaining his home and yard and was innovative at repairing things himself rather than throwing things away. Robert enjoyed woodworking and built many items for the home.

Robert was in the Air force and served as Flight Instruments and Radio Navigations Instructor. He was made Staff Sgt in three years. Robert served from September 1953 to September 1957.

He was preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Regina Cassel; and sister, Ruth Ann Dirreen.

He is survived by his wife, Judy; son, Allan Wahaus, Columbus, KS; and daughter, Debra Grant, Weston, NE; five grandchildren, Derek, Ashlie, Brandon, Aaron and Carry; and five great grandchildren.

Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10 a.m., Saturday, June 12th, 2021 with rosary at 9:30 a.m. at St. Mary Queen of the Universe Catholic Church. Burial of ashes will be 2 p.m., Sunday, June 13th at the Hoisington City Cemetery, Hoisington, KS with Military Honors by McConnell AFB Honor Guard.

Memorials may be made to Catholic Charities, Birthright or Interim Hospice and sent in care of Ryan Mortuary.