Robert Matthew Cordel

Robert Matthew Cordel was born on September 3, 1950 in Beloit, Kansas, the third son of Edmund C. and Helena C. (Ohnsat) Cordel of Tipton, KS. He died surrounded by all of his siblings on Saturday, August 13, 2016 at KU Medical Center, Kansas City at the age of 65 years, 10 months, and 13 days from injuries he suffered from a motorcycle accident 12 days earlier.

Robert grew up and attended schools in Tipton, KS. Following his high school graduation, he attended Fort Hays State University and earned a Bachelor’s degree in Business Accounting. After serving his country in the National Guard Robert returned to the farm to work alongside his brothers running and building a successful and progressive farmer stockman operation in Mitchell and Jewell counties for almost 50 years. He participated in developing many innovative approaches to improve the efficiency and economy of grain and animal production.

Robert faced multiple obstacles throughout his life, but he applied a focused and faith-filled attitude to achieving his lifelong goals.  Robert came to know Jesus Christ as his Savior and Lord. This relationship was the foundation of all his acts of kindness and gentle words. His faith in Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord shone through and ran deep within his personality. His faith in Christ sustained him and strengthened him through the difficulties of life.

Robert believed the richness of life comes from making memories as well as spending time reminiscing and sharing all of those fond memories with family and friends. Robert loved spending time with his family and participating in athletic activities: distance running, motorcycling and bicycling throughout his entire life. He enjoyed competitive running and bicycling alongside his sons.  Robert was an avid motorcycle enthusiast.

Robert was a member and Deacon of the Beloit First Christian Church, and was very active in several bible study groups and outreach ministries through the church.

Robert’s first marriage was to Linda Townley on December 20, 1975, and they later divorced. On January 14, 2006, he was united in marriage to Lisa Dawn Williams from Beloit, KS. He was preceded in death by his wife Lisa and his parents. Robert is survived by his son, Matthew Jeremiah Cordel, and step children, Alexandra Christine Williams and Kevin Matthew Williams; three brothers, David (Lori) Cordel, Stephen (Carol) Cordel, Adrian (Marla) Cordel; two sisters, Margaret (Don) Reinert and Mary (Larry) Farrar; two sisters-in-law, Candy Spicher and Connie Long; one brother-in-law, Jeff (Angelica) Van Pelt; and a host of nieces, nephews, and many other relatives and friends.

Visitation will be held at Schoen Funeral Home and Monuments in Beloit, on Friday, August 19th from 10am. to 8 pm with family present from 6-8 pm.

A celebration of his very active life will be held at the Beloit First Christian Church on Saturday, August 20th at 2 pm. Burial will follow at Elmwood Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to: Heart Choices or Beloit First Christian Church in care of Schoen Funeral Home and Monuments.