Robert A. Funk, a prominent businessman, philanthropist, beloved father and friend to many, went to be with the Lord on July 15, 2025.

Born in Duvall, Washington, he was a trailblazing entrepreneur who loved the American West and lived true to its values of honesty, respect, loyalty, self-reliance, and hard work. These principles guided his every decision and action, shaped his remarkable life and inspired those around him.

Affectionately known as ‘Bob,’ he was instrumental in the success of Express Employment Professionals, which he co-founded in 1983 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, alongside Bill Stoller. He served as the company’s first CEO for 35 years and remained deeply involved as Executive Chairman of the Board until his passing, guiding its growth with vision for more than four decades. His unwavering commitment to creating job opportunities and providing hope through employment helped build Express into one of America’s top staffing franchisors. His innovative leadership championed localized staffing solutions tailored to the unique needs of each community, helping businesses grow and connecting millions of people with meaningful work.

Bob’s expertise and leadership extended beyond business. He served as Chairman of the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City from 2006-2007, a distinction that brought him great pride. His expertise was frequently sought on economic and business matters across the United States. In 2007, he also served as Chairman of the Conference of Chairmen for the Federal Reserve Bank System.

His contributions to the staffing industry were widely recognized, including his induction into the American Staffing Association Hall of Fame in 2023, the Staffing 100 Hall of Fame by Staffing Industry Review in 2017, and the International Franchise Association Hall of Fame in 2010.

Bob deeply cherished his family, holding a special place in his heart for his beloved grandchildren, with whom he shared his time generously and joyfully. Whether telling stories at the Ranch, playing games at the state fair, or enjoying a great steak, Bob was often found laughing, joking, and creating lasting memories with those he loved most. His presence was a constant source of warmth and joy, and his legacy will live on through the moments he so thoughtfully created with his grandchildren and family.

Beyond his entrepreneurial ventures, Bob was a successful cattleman globally renowned for his Angus operations. His love for land and cattle started at an early age, growing up milking cows with his cousin on a small family farm in Washington. His cattle operations were not merely a business but a testament to his deep connection to the American West and his desire to advance the beef industry. His innovative breeding techniques and commitment to quality set new industry standards and made American beef more competitive on the global stage.

His passion for cattle led him to acquire the Briscoe Farm in Yukon, Oklahoma, in 1991, laying the foundation for the Express Ranches enterprise. Bob also established the world champion Express Clydesdales as a global brand ambassador for Express, showing them across the country and internationally. Today, Express Ranches is the largest seedstock cattle operation in the United States. Bob was proud of the outstanding team at the Ranch, led by his dear friend, the late Jarold Callahan.

Giving back and paying it forward was a cornerstone of Bob’s life and legacy. As a devout Christian and former minister, his faith drove his passion for philanthropy and his mission to create opportunity for others. This motivation led him to give generously of both time and resources to support young people, especially in agriculture.

Bob founded the Express Ranches Progressive Junior Scholarship Program 30 years ago, through which he donated $5 million in scholarships, helping more than 500 students graduate from college.

One of Bob’s greatest joys was the Oklahoma Youth Expo (OYE), because he believed wholeheartedly in growing future leaders. He generously donated to create scholarships, purchase animals, and fund the organization’s permanent headquarters at the Oklahoma State Fairgrounds. As Chair of the OYE board, his leadership earned him deep respect and admiration across the state.

In recognition of his lasting contributions to Oklahoma through his businesses and community engagement, Bob was inducted into the Oklahoma Hall of Fame in 2017, the state’s highest honor.

Bob also loved the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum and believed sincerely in its mission to preserve, educate, and celebrate the rich history of the great American West. His lifestyle aligned perfectly with the Museum’s mission, and his contributions in terms of time and money were transformative, advancing the institution’s mission and values he held dear.

In 2023, Bob was inducted into the prestigious Hall of Great Westerners in honor of his service to the Museum, which included serving as Board Chair. This recognition was a testament to his deep understanding and appreciation of Western heritage and his significant contributions to its preservation and celebration. His induction into the Hall of Great Westerners was a crowning achievement in his lifelong dedication to this cause.

Bob’s legacy, a testament to his enterprising spirit and commitment to his values, will continue to thrive through the businesses he founded, the organizations he supported, and the countless lives he impacted. He loved people. One of the most cherished memories for many was his infectious laugh and pure joy as he hosted the annual Christmas dinner for Express employees, where he would personally hand out gifts, recognize their contributions, and express his heartfelt gratitude.

Bob’s kindness knew no bounds. He had a genuine gift for making others feel seen, heard, and valued. He was the kind of man who paused to shake your hand, share a story, listen with intention, or offer help without hesitation. Bob lived with an open heart, and in doing so, he left a lasting mark on everyone he met. He was a source of love, and he was deeply, truly loved. All who knew Bob will feel his absence deeply, but his spirit will continue to inspire.

Bob always said: “I believe you’re only as successful as the last person you help in life.” There is no doubt that his legacy has impacted countless people across the world and will be felt for generations to come.

Well done, good and faithful servant. — Matthew 25:23

Bob is lovingly survived by his family: son Bob Funk, Jr. and his wife Kim Garrett-Funk, his daughter Julie Bridges and her husband Chris Bridges, his beloved grandchildren, Bailey Morgan and her husband Tyler, Bowen Bridges, Deacon and Olive Funk, and their grandmother Nedra Funk. He is also survived by his sister Joanne Benton, his niece Terri Weldon, husband Darrel, their children Zack and Kelly, their daughter Ella; and son Jeremy Weldon. Niece Jodi Strum, husband Kevin; their children Trent Strum, wife Ivonne, daughter Hadley, and son Travis Strum. Nephew Cory Benton and wife Bethany; their children Luke Benton, Preston Fansher, Julius Wilson, Davis Benton, Jayden Fansher and Journey Benton. Cousins: Ed, Beth and Bob Pease and Dick Trim.

He is also survived by his companion, Janine Regier and her family: Mary Loughridge, Caleb, Katherine and Henry Bills, Jared, Sara and son Ezekiel Bills.

Bob is survived by countless beloved friends, colleagues and employees that he loved dearly.

A service honoring the life of Bob Funk, Sr. will be held on Monday, July 28th at 2:00 p.m. at Crossings Community Church, located at 14600 N. Portland Avenue, Oklahoma City, OK 73134.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial contributions be made to Oklahoma Youth Expo (OYE).

To view service: https://vimeo.com/event/5257765/f5731b377a