Bob was born on May 4, 1956, in Albuquerque, New Mexico, to parents Charles D. and Ernestine (née Morgenstern) Harrell. His love for life was infectious and his adventurous spirit was evident from a young age. From riding his red and cream soft-tail Harley Davidson motorcycle across Tucson and into the local hills, to skydiving, to serving on a hot air balloon crew in Deming, NM, he was a man who savored every moment. His unbridled enthusiasm and zest for life were an inspiration to all who knew him.
Bob was an accomplished man, both professionally and academically. His career as an IT Specialist at the New Mexico 9th Judicial District and Magistrate Courts spanned 19 fruitful years. He was a man of intellectual prowess, obtaining a Bachelor of Business degree from Metro State University of Denver in 1977 and a Masters of Education, Professional-Technical education from Eastern New Mexico University in 2015. His dedication to his career was only surpassed by his commitment to his family. He met his wife, Kristin Kuhlmann, in 1979, and they journeyed through life together, with their love story culminating in their marriage on May 16, 1981, at the Little White Chapel in Las Vegas, Nevada. They reveled in the joy of their union and renewed their vows at 10 and 30 years, a testament to their enduring love story. Bob grew up in Denver, Colorado. As an adult, he lived and worked in Tucson, Arizona and Deming and Portales, New Mexico.
Although Bob’s life was marked by his remarkable achievements, his true legacy lies in the lives he touched and the love he shared. His love for nature was profound, and he was a passionate advocate for environmental protection. His hobbies, including hiking, fishing, and snow skiing, were testament to his love for the great outdoors. Bob was a beloved husband, father, and brother.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles Harrell and Ernestine Barany.
Bob is survived by his wife, Kristin, his foster son Andrew (A.J.) Beltron (Tanya) of Cottonwood, Arizona; two grandchildren Gary Sapp and Alexandria (Lexii) Beltron of Tucson; brother Richard (Dawn) Harrell of Littleton, Colorado; Kristin’s siblings’ Hank (Gladys), Ann, Dodi, Kay and Bill, and a blessed group of nieces and nephews who loved their “Uncle Bob” for his playful and kind nature.
As we remember Bob Harrell, we celebrate a life well-lived, a life that enriched the world with love, adventure, and warmth. Let us honor his memory together and keep his spirit alive in our hearts.
A Memorial Service will be held at noon on May 17, 2025, at High Prairie Methodist Church, 17979 1800 Rd. (on Hwy. 75, 7 miles south of Buffalo, Kansas.) with interment to follow.
For further information contact Kay Kuhlmann at sebring-roberts@hotmail.com
I got a final visit with Bob at niece Susie’s Thanksgiving weekend in Manhattan, KS. That Saturday, he and I took nephew Chris and sister-in-law Ann Vaughan to see the Renoir immersive exhibit at the new Museum of Art+Light. Ever attentive to the needs of others, Bob asked to push Ann’s wheelchair.
The next day, Bob and Kris drove 100 miles out of their way home to see my new hometown and townhouse.
I am proud to say that I introduced Bob (my security alarm contractor) to Kristin in Denver. He became like a brother to me,
I will miss Bob greatly.
Bob and I have worked together for a long time. His sense of humor was memorable. He would always carry around a cup of coffee. I remember having a conversation with him about which type of coffee cup would keep your coffee hotter longer. No matter which one he had for the day, it went with him everywhere. Bob was really good at what he did. We always knew that if we needed something fixed to call Bob. He will truly be missed. Our prayers go out to the family.
Bob was an incredibly intelligent, talented IT Specialist. He was always there for us, rain or shine. I was monitoring for Grand Jury one morning, and our new and improved sound system went down. Couldn’t have come at a worse time. I radioed for Bob to come and help. He came in, did some trouble shooting on the fly (in front of probably 30 Grand Jurors-it was Orientation day) and fixed it right up. Of course, in a stressful situation we try to keep it light. My Grand Jurors were telling Bob, “Give her a raise!” We all shared a laugh. Before Bob left the courtroom, though, I told everyone to give him a round of applause. They did. And it was awesome. I know everyone at the 9th will agree, he deserved that round of applause! He’ll be sorely missed around here. Rest in Paradise, Bob. Kris: Sending you all my love.
Bob’s celebration of life will be the first family event I have attended in many years where he was not physically present. He was such a helpful and reliable person at all family events that I am not sure we can pull off an event without him. He will forever be with us in spirit. I cherish the many family-event memories I have of Bob. See you on the other side, Bob.
Dear Kris, Mark and I are almost at a loss for words over Bob’s sudden passing. He was the friendliest face in the neighborhood whether talking about pets, nature, religion or wherever the topic or conversations would lead. He will be very missed. Sincerest condolences to you and your family. Love, Mark and Tracy Dal Porto
I have heard so many good things about Bob from Kay.
I am so very sorry for your loss.
I remember you fondly from my trip to New Mexico.
My dearest deepest condolences are being sent your way Kris. Bob was an amazing person. Not just as a work colleague but as a dear friend. I had the honor of working with him in the 5th and 9th Judicial District Courts of New Mexico. I could count on him to help me with any question or problem I may have. I continuously bragged about his IT skills at my meetings in Santa Fe. The State of NM needed to know how awesome he was. I will miss you always my dear friend. Rest easy. We will never find another one like you.