Bobby Joe "Bob" Bufford

Bobby Joe "Bob" Bufford, 81, of Meriden, Kansas, passed away peacefully on August 5, 2026. Born on February 22, 1945, in Marshall County, Kentucky, he was a son of Lawrence W. and Attie York Bufford. Bob graduated from South Marshall High School and proudly served in the United States Air Force from 1964 to 1968.

Bob dedicated 13 years of service to Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company in Topeka, Kansas and spent 23 years with the Kansas Air National Guard, a testament to his commitment and work ethic. In his community, he was a cherished member of Grace Community Church and the Rubber Workers Union Local #307 in Topeka. A lifetime member of the American Legion in Lyndon, Kansas, Bob's legacy of service and camaraderie is enduring.

On April 27, 1968, Bob married Barbara Messenger in Roxbury, Kansas. They shared a loving life together for over 50 years until her passing on March 7, 2019. His daughters, Kelli Robinson (Shawn) and Kimberly Garrett (James), both from Topeka, survive him, along with 9 cherished grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren. Bob's memory is also held dear by many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

A man of simple pleasures, Bob loved spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren, passionately supporting their sports and Special Olympics activities. He delighted in traveling, bowling, fishing, hunting, and collecting cars and tractors.

Bob was preceded in death by his loving wife, Barbara, his parents, his brother, Lawrence Bufford, Jr., and his granddaughter, Taylor Robinson.

The family will receive friends from 6:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., Monday, August 10, 2026, at Penwell-Gabel Cremations, Funerals & Receptions, 1321 SW 10th Ave., Topeka, Kansas. A funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m., Tuesday, August 11, 2026 at the funeral home. Interment with military honors will follow at Rochester Cemetery, Topeka, KS. The family encourages casual attire for those who attend.

Memorial contributions may be made to Grace Community Church, 4300 SW Burlingame Rd, Topeka, KS 66609 or to Special Olympics Kansas, 5280 Foxridge Dr, Mission, KS 66202.

To leave a message for the family online, please visit www.PenwellGabelTopeka.com.