ROBERT RUNNELS III

Robert Runnels III died on Saturday, February 6, 2021. He was 71. Rob was the eldest of seven children, an only son with six sisters. Born on November 24, 1949 in Kansas City to Robert Runnels Jr. and Billie Van Houten Runnels, he grew up in their family home in Leawood, Kansas and lived much of his adult life in Belton, Missouri. He will be remembered affectionately for his incredible wit, distinct voice, and warm brown eyes.

Rob always spoke his truth. He also sang beautifully. He used to be an altar boy and began his academic studies at Curé of Ars. He was an Eagle Scout and proud graduate of Rockhurst High School. Highly intelligent, he used his knowledge to discuss Latin roots of words and philosophical ideas, and often quoted from books. He was well read and always seemed to know something about most things. He studied at the University of Kansas, where he developed his passion for business and standing up for what he believed in. An insatiable curiosity drove Rob to develop his talent in technology. A gifted researcher, he displayed a great genius for solving problems and creating unique concepts. He started several businesses from scratch. An early adopter, he was likely one of the first to use the internet to grow his ideas.

He had a great sense of humor and infectious laugh. He could make you bust a gut with the way he saw life and how he could stitch together unrelated details and events into one rolling ball of a conversation. He traveled abroad and loved living on his farm in Belton. He also enjoyed going to the Lake of the Ozarks to hang out with friends on his houseboat. Over the years, he had dogs and cats and horses. He loved animals, wildlife, and nature.

He loved people deeply. Rob will remain forever in the hearts of those who loved him, too, and are mourning his passing—nieces, nephews, great loves, family, friends, and sisters.
Rob was laid to rest at Corinth Cemetery in Prairie Village, Kansas. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in his honor to the animal shelter in Belton, Missouri at www.helphumane.org or Kansas City Public Television at www.kansascitypbs.org.

Arrangements: Cullen Funeral Home, Raymore, Missouri 816.322.5278