Robert Eugene Layton, 73, Chanute, KS passed away on February 3, 2018 at Neosho Memorial Regional Medical Center. He was born to Billy M. and Merlene (Simmons) Layton in Chanute, KS on June 24, 1944.
He married Verna Smith in Miami, OK on March 3, 1970. She survives at their home.
Robert was a loving husband, stepdad, and grandpa. He was raised by his Grandma Bell Layton until the age of 10. Robert had old-school beliefs and was known for being ornery. He was a true patriot who proudly signed up at the age of 17 and served in the United States Navy for 12 years, including one year in Vietnam. On weekends, he and Verna enjoyed trips to various flea markets and auctions where he added to his collections of oil cans, barbed wire, and coffee pots. His passion was collecting belt buckles and he was a member of the National Belt Buckle Association. Robert was also a proud member of the Chanute VFW and SEK Bottle and Relic Club. He was a genuinely nice guy and made many friends in his later years while residing at Diversicare in Chanute for his last three years.
Robert will be missed by:
Wife: Verna Layton of the home; Stepchildren: Brenda Burt and husband, David, Chanute, KS; Gary Wiles and significant other, Carol Anderson, Chanute, KS; Grandchildren: Joshua Burt of Chanute, KS, Austin Burt of Chanute, KS; Great-Grandchildren: Torie Thomas of Cherokee, KS, Zebediah Campbell of Wichita, KS; Numerous Cousins.
Robert was preceded in death by his parents and granddaughter, Cristy Wiles.
A visitation will be held at Countryside Funeral Home – Gibson Chapel in Chanute, KS on Wednesday, February 7, 2018 from 5-7 pm. A service will be held at Countryside Funeral Home - Johnson Chapel on Thursday, February 8, 2018 at 10 am in Chanute, KS followed by interment at Mt. Hope Cemetery in Humboldt, KS. Chanute Honor Guard will be in charge of military honors. Online condolences may be left at: www.countrysidefh.com
Memorials have been suggested to the Chanute VFW and may be left with or mailed to the funeral home. Arrangements have been entrusted to: Countryside Funeral Home, 101 N. Highland, Chanute, KS 66720.
