In Remembrance Of
Robert Zornes
Robert Earl Zornes, 68, of Kansas City, MO went to be with the Lord on February 7, 2025.
He was born on August 20, 1956, to Russell Roy and Jessie Lee (Adams) Zornes in Iola, KS where he grew up and graduated from Iola High School in 1974. Robert graduated from Evangel College with a bachelors in pipe organ performance and later received his master’s in counseling from Emporia State University.
On June 6, 1981, he was united in marriage to Susan Kay Rosenlieb. After their marriage they lived in Emporia, KS and in 1982 they moved to Kansas City, MO where they made their home.
After moving to Kansas City, Robert was the Minister of Pastoral Care and Counseling for Northland Cathedral. In 1985, he helped found The L.I.G.H.T. House with Kansas City Youth for Christ and then in 2002 he became the Executive Director for Mother’s Refuge in Independence, MO. During his time of ministry, more than 1500 babies were saved from abortion, and he touched countless lives demonstrating God’s grace by providing a “hand up not a hand out.” Robert was also a successful entrepreneur in sales. He loved teaching his sons business through J. B. Toys. Robert loved helping people, never met a stranger, and was a wonderful husband, brother, uncle, dad and papa.
He was preceded in death by his parents Russell and Jessie Zornes; his brother David Zornes; his father-in-law and mother-in-law Raymond and Edyth Rosenlieb; and brother-in-law Larry Rosenlieb.
He is survived by his wife Susan Zornes; sons Carl, Bobby and Josh, Grandson Nathan Zornes and his wife Alona Zornes, siblings Donna Zornes, Bill (Patty) Zornes, Janice (Dave) Wing, Terry (Sandy) Zornes, Thomas Tracy Zornes; sister-in-law Cindy Zornes, and sister-in-law Kathy (Chuck) Weidner, many nieces and nephews, and all of the friends that became family.
Graveside Service: 2:00 p.m. Friday, February 14th at Highland Cemetery in Iola, KS.
Visitation will be at 9:00 a.m. with a Celebration of Life Service at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, March 8th at Northland Cathedral, 101 NW 99th St., Kansas City, MO, 64155.
Donations may be made to Northland Cathedral Missions or Benevolence Fund.
Arrangements by Hixson-Klein Funeral Home, Smithville, MO.
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Service Details
2:00 p.m. Friday, February 14th at Highland Cemetery in Iola, KS.
10:30 a.m. Saturday, March 8th at Northland Cathedral, 101 NW 99th St., Kansas City, MO, 64155.
9:00 a.m. Saturday, March 8th at Northland Cathedral, 101 NW 99th St., Kansas City, MO, 64155.
Comments & condolences
8 comments
Sherry (Clark) Keller
Dear Susan,
I just wanted to let you know that I am thinking of you and your family and sending prayers of comfort during this very difficult time.
Betty Hyatt Pierson
To The Family,
I will be watching the clock Saturday & praying.
You all are in my thoughts & prayers.
Sharon Allen
it was a pleasure to get to know Robert and his family. I really enjoyed working at Mother’s Refuge when Robert had mother’s Refuge with the girls and the babies. I am so blessed that I got to see him before he went to be with the Lord. may God bless you Susan and family prayers going out for you all. blessings
Betty Pierson
We were all Blessed to have known Bob. He was one in a million.
Nancy Sanders
I am deeply saddened to hear of Robert’s passing. Though we worked together many years ago, the impact he had on my life remains strong. Robert was not only a mentor but also a guiding light—someone whose wisdom, kindness, and faith left a lasting impression. I will always be grateful for the lessons learned and the encouragement he offered. My heartfelt condolences to the Zornes’ family and loved ones. May God bring you comfort and peace during this difficult time.
Betty Hyatt Pierson
To The Family,
I knew Bob from church & he worked with my father.
Ironically when my mother bought her house here I
could see Mrs, Rosenlieb’s from the backyard.
You all are in my thoughts and prayers.
Betty Hyatt Pierson
Heather Barker
Dear Susan,
What a wonderful legacy this man of God left to his family and community. And what a reward in heaven he is enjoying now!… Praying our Good Shepherd will comfort, encourage, and console you and your family.
Love,
Heather Barker
Bob Cregger and wife Sharon Cregger
Dear Susan and sons I had not heard of Robert passing. I am so sorry that I did not hear in time . As I have had some health issues myself in the last year and a half, I would not have been able to make the services But would have sent a remembrance. Susan, if you still have my number, give me a call at your convenience I would love to hear from you. I love all of you and have a special special spot in my heart for Robert And yourself as well as the boys. So very sorry for your loss, but he does not hurt anymore and there are no tears.