On Sunday, December 14th, 2025, John Hamilton Robinson Jr., age 75, of Mission Hills, Kansas, peacefully entered the presence of the Lord, closing a remarkable life defined by unwavering strength, profound integrity, and a gracious spirit that deeply touched all who had the privilege of knowing him. His faith was not loud or performative, but evident in the way he always treated others – with humility, kindness and grace.
Born on August 17th, 1950, John carried a presence that filled a room—not with stories or humor, but with steadiness, sincerity, and an uncommon ability to make people feel seen and supported. He was someone you could count on: dependable, thoughtful, and guided by a quiet wisdom that came from a life lived with purpose and heart.
John was a fourth-generation alumnus of the University of Kansas, where he earned both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in civil engineering. He was a devoted brother of Beta Theta Pi, a legacy he carried with deep affection and pride throughout his life.
He spent the majority of his career at Black & Veatch, ultimately serving as Managing Partner. For some of those years, John and his family lived internationally, experiences that shaped their lives and broadened their perspectives. His expertise, measured leadership, and character earned him the respect of colleagues across continents. In later years, he continued to lend his wisdom through board service, including roles with Alliance Resource Partners and Coeur Mining. The respect shown to him—and the kindness extended to his family during the early stages of his illness—was a profound source of encouragement.
Above all, John cared deeply for his family. As a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, he led with calmness, generosity, and quiet strength. He showed love through action—through his presence, support, hard work, and the way he consistently showed up for those he loved. An avid outdoorsman, he cherished time spent with family, whether on the water, in a duck blind, or cheering on his grandsons at their school, sporting or life events. His influence will continue in the lives of all those he shaped with unwavering love.
John is survived by his beloved wife, Kyle; his children, John (Monica), Katie, and Meg (Joe); his five grandsons, Jeremiah, Wells, Brooks, Finley and Rhodes, as well as many other dear relatives, all who will carry forward his legacy of compassion, responsibility, and wholehearted devotion to family. He was preceded in death by his parents, Jack and Patricia Robinson, who now welcome him home in peace.
In his final season, John faced the challenges of Alzheimer’s disease with the same grace and dignity that marked his life, surrounded by the love of those who held him dear. His bride of nearly 54 years was there to guide him with an amazing kindness and an unwavering faith.
A Celebration of Life will be held at Christ Community Church on Saturday, February 7th at 1:30pm (400 W. 67th Street, Kansas City, MO), with a reception to follow at Kansas City Country Club (6200 Indian Lane, Mission Hills, KS). We hope to see you there to honor a man who lived fully, loved deeply, and leaves behind a legacy of strength and kindness.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to The Hope Center KC, or you are invited to extend a simple act of kindness to someone today—reflecting the way John lived each day of his life.
I have had the honor and privilege to know John these last 5 years. I thoroughly enjoyed being with, playing golf, bowling and bocce, and just hanging around with him. I loved him. He had such wonderful stories and life experiences he shared with me. He was so witty, funny and caring. I won’t be able to go to our club without thinking of him. He made my life better by being with him. I’ll miss you John.
I’m so sorry to hear of this. It’s such a difficult time. My condolences go to you and your family. You are in my prayers
John Robinson was all that and more. Grieving deeply with his family upon saying goodbye to one of the finest men I ever knew. God rest his kind soul.
I’m sorry for your loss Mr John was a kind and nice person I met in my life. My prayers for all his family.
Dear Kyle and Family,
What a beautiful gift you have given to your family and friends with your tribute to John, words woven in love and admiration. Heaven is rejoicing.
We are thinking of you all.
Love,
Beth & Orv
John was an incredible human being. Every time I had the privilege of being around him, I felt genuinely loved, welcomed, and appreciated. His personality and sense of humor will be deeply missed, and his love for family and unity will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew him, including friends like myself.
I have many fond memories of John during our days with Black & Veatch. Barbara and I extend our condolences to Kyle, Clint, Britton, and the other family members. John will be missed by many.
Clint, I am so sorry for your and your family’s loss… My sincerest condolences to you and your family in this very difficult time.
So sorry to learn of this. Prayers and comfort for family.
Julie Gass
Kyle and family, Caroline and I were deeply saddened to hear of John’s passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Unfortunately, we will be out of town at the time of the memorial service. John, may you rest in peace.
John was my idol growing up. I’ll never forget meeting him at the age of twelve, when Kyle brought him home from the University of Kansas to meet our parents. John shaped my adolescent years more than anyone else. And honestly, it’s fair to say he had that same impact on the entire Simmons family — sisters, brothers, nieces, nephews, and grandchildren. When I think of John, a lot of words come to mind, but “presidential” is the one that always rises to the top. He didn’t try to be that way — he just was.
When I first met him, he was tall, dark, handsome, articulate, and classy in a way that made an immediate impression. John’s influence on our family will always be remembered, appreciated, and felt.
Condolences and prayers to Kyle and all the family. Rusty & Paula