OBITUARY: Maurice E. Robinson

Maurice E. Robinson, 85, died June 20, 2020, at Kansas Christian Home in Newton. He was born March 3, 1935, in Blackwell, Okla., to Clinton M and Sarah J (Lawhead) Robinson.

On Jan. 11, 1969, he married J. Kay Riley in South Haven, and she preceded him in death on June 19, 2005. Maurice was a graduate of South Haven High School class of 1953. He served his country in the U.S. Army 1955-1959.

Maurice worked early on as a meat cutter in his family’s grocery store in South Haven and Whites Foodliner in Kingman before he and Kay moved to Newton, beginning their service to youth by working at Youthville in Newton for several years. He was an avid gardener, and folks in Newton and South Haven often stopped by for a garden tour and to see what new seeds he was starting and hybridizing. He shared that love of gardening with his children. Later in life, he took up woodcarving and enjoyed making pieces to share with others. He won the grand prize in the “Art is Ageless” contest with other elders across the state. Family was always important to Maurice, and he enjoyed visits from his kids, grandkids, great-grandkids and friends who stopped by. Being an avid KU fan, he could always be found cheering the Jayhawk basketball team when they played.

Maurice is survived by his son, Charlie Robinson (Rich Stinnett) of Newton; daughter, Andrea (Tony) Arreguin of South Haven; three grandchildren, Melissa, Morgan and Christopher Arreguin; and three great-granddaughters, Nadia, Ramona and Lucy. He also is survived by his sister, Merry (Clifford) Murdock of Caldwell, 11 nieces and nephews; and several great-nieces, nephews and many extended family members.

Over the years, Maurice and Kay were loving foster parents to many.

He was preceded in death by his wife, parents and infant brother, Thomas.

The family would like to thank the staff of Kansas Christian Home for their exceptional care during the past three years he was in their care and love.

Graveside services will be at 10:30 p.m. Thursday, June 25, at Rosehill Cemetery, South Haven, officiated by the Rev. Donna Voteau. Visitation with the family was from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at Petersen Funeral Home, Newton.

The casket will be opened for viewing for 15 minutes ahead of graveside service at the cemetery.

Memorials may be made to Kansas Christian Home, employee assistance fund, in care of Petersen Funeral Home 215 North Main Newton, KS, 67114.

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