Robert Edward Reece

Robert Edward “Bob” Reece, a.k.a. “Papa Boat,” of Key West, FL, set sail on his final voyage the morning of December 27, 2024.

Born November 1, 1939, in Kansas City, Missouri, Bob was always an innovator, entrepreneur and hard worker. Even as a child, he delivered groceries on his bicycle. Bob attended Rockhurst High School, where he played football as a right guard. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from Rockhurst College, and then attended Marquette University. Throughout college he was a member of the Alpha Delta Gamma fraternity. He then received an MBA from Pepperdine University. Bob served our nation as an Airman First Class Reservist at Richards-Gebaur Air Force Station. Joining the Peace Corps, Bob used his engineering skills and desire to help people to lead projects bringing clean water to rural Bolivian villages in the rugged Altiplano, saving countless lives. Despite nearly dying of amoebic dysentery, Bob continued the mission, building a large water well in Montero north of Santa Cruz, where he met and married Marcela, later having four children. During the Vietnam conflict, Bob again left the safety of the U.S. and volunteered with the US Department of State. He was decorated for his service in leading construction projects for the Montagnard villagers deep in the highlands of Vietnam north of Pleiku.

Back in Kansas City, Bob met Judy. They were married in 1974 and enjoyed a loving connection for almost 51 years. Bob dabbled in various businesses, including owning and operating a Dairy Queen franchise, but seeking ocean breezes, Bob and Judy moved to Palm Beach. During dinner one night Judy was talking about the residential survey backlog at her mortgage firm. Both Bob and Judy made the leap and created a company from scratch that significantly streamlined the mortgage loan closing process even opening up multiple offices. Digging roots in South Florida, Bob and Judy built and operated Lender’s Services in the Palm Beach area, later founding Reece Surveying in the Keys. He was truly a Renaissance man listening to those around him, developing innovative concepts, devouring books about the topic and putting ideas into action!

Bob was a traveler at heart and a traveler with heart, his adventures spanning over eight decades, touching lives of hundreds and likely thousands of people. Family was his anchor, and his friends were his lifelong crew. His infectious energy and wild generosity drew folks from all walks of life and made for a large extended family. He brought people together, over laughter, food, and music, with a drink in hand. Bob found paradise in the Florida Keys and resided there for the past 30 years where he not only ran his business, but also volunteered with the Big Pine Key Fire Department. He was also very involved with the local Rotary Club and Chamber of Commerce. Over the years he amassed a small armada of boats, most named “Seaveyor” and jokingly earned the nickname “Papa Boat” from his grandchildren.

Bob was the captain of his own ship in every sense of the word, charting each course of
life with control, grace, and an adventurous spirit. Always planning the next journey, he not only dreamed but actually took his family and friends around the world to share unforgettable experiences and create memories. In a final act of love and intention, Bob returned to his home port in Kansas City to spend Christmas surrounded by his family. The “Annual Reece Family Reunion”: was a treasured tradition, bringing together his children and grandchildren each summer to celebrate the family bonds he valued so deeply. Unsinkable, Bob now continues his journey with those who preceded him in death. Without a doubt, he is hosting the ultimate “Reece Reunion,” reunited with his parents, Charles and Kathryn; siblings, Dick and Lois; nephew, David; his beloved children, Michael and Lili; and grandson, Aidan.

Bob is survived by his devoted wife, Judy Reece; his son, Dan Reece (T abetha); his daughters, Lara Caldwell, Angela Reece (Tia) and Jennifer Bryant (Don); his grandchildren, Steven Reece (Caitlin), Mark Reece, Trevor Reece, Allison Reece, Robert Reece, Kyle Reece, Kurt Jr. Caldwell, Zeke Caldwell, Gabi Bryant (Cody),
Andrew Bryant (Sarah), Jake Bryant, Quinn Bryant; and his great-grandchildren, Riley and Roland.

Bob knew no stranger and left behind countless friends all over the world. Bob treasured his bonds with his Rockhurst High School pals, with friendships spanning 70 years; he maintained close relationships with his family and friends in Peru and Bolivia, his huge fan club in St. Louis, and of course, his community in the Florida Keys.

A Celebration of Life for Bob Reece will be held in Happy Hour fashion (his favorite) on Thursday Jan 2, 2025 at “Coaches at 135th” in Overland Park, KS, from 2-4 PM. Come ready to share a story and a toast to this unforgettable man, “Cheers“