Robert Dell Millard

Robert D. Millard, 88, of Topeka passed away on Tuesday, April 7, 2015. He was born January 2, 1927 at North Bend, Nebraska the son of Clair H. and Blanche Ashton-Millard. He moved to Corpus Christi, Texas before settling in Topeka, Kansas in 1932. Robert’s mother called him Bobby Dell, he started working at the age of five, shining shoes with his brother Whitey. He worked two summers at Van Dorf Sheet Metal Company sweeping floors, where he received a nickel for eight hours of work at the age of eight. Robert graduated from East Topeka Junior High School. After attending Topeka High School for a year he left in order to support his family. In March of 1945 he enlisted in the Army. He served until November of 1946 when he was honorably discharged at Fort Dix, New Jersey.
After World War II he met and married the love of his life Mary Lou McInroy, she precedes him in death. Bob was also preceded in death by his parents, Clair H. Millard and Blanche Ashton-Millard, grandson, Robbe Dell Millard II, and his brothers, Gordon, Dutch, Whitey, Banty and Chet Thompson.
He owned and operated Millard Roofing Company with his son Mark A Millard. He was known for his unconditional love and loyalty for his family, his laughter, singing, playing the harmonica, his poetry and wonderful storytelling.
Survivors include his son, Mark Allen Millard of Topeka; daughter Bobbe Jo Millard Kass and her husband Bob of DeSoto, KS; grandson, Allen Joe Millard; 6 great-grandchildren; 7 great-great grandchildren; and sister-in-law, Mrs. Dutch “Ione” Millard of Topeka; and many nieces and nephews. He also leaves behind 2 favorite tom cats, Kitty Cat Replay and Moocher.
Graveside services will be held at 11:00 am on Monday, April 13, 2015 at the St. George Cemetery at St. George, Kansas. Mr. Millard will lie in state from 1-8 pm on Sunday where the family will receive friends from 2-4 pm at Davidson Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to the Disabled American Veterans, Capitol Post #1 of the American Legion or to the Helping Hands Humane Society. To leave a message for the family please visit www.davidsonfuneral.com. A special thank you to dear friends Arleigh, Nancy and Ron.