Charles Robert "Bob" Parnell, 86, passed away on Friday, July 7, 2026 at Midland Hospice House in Topeka, Kansas.

Charles was born in Seneca, Kansas at the home of his parents Nicholas Richard and Golda Alice (Bales) Parnell. He graduated from Seneca High School in 1957, at which time he enlisted in the United States Navy. He proudly served in the Navy specializing as a radioman.

Charles was employed by the Gas Service Company for 35 years, retiring in 1995 as operating supervisor in the Topeka division. He was a long-time member of St. Stanislaus Catholic Church helping to build an addition to the original church in the 1970's.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Loraine Evelyn Morrison-Lindeen; brother, Nicholas Galen Parnell; grandson, Holden Hurla; and nephews, Gary Parnell and Terry Andrick.

On August 18, 1962 he was married to Gladys Huerter. They later divorced. Survivors include his sister Isla Rose Andrick of Rossville, a son, Randy (Sharon) Parnell of Topeka, two daughters, Belinda (Steve) Morris of Rossville and Angie (Chris) Hurla of Delia, six grandchildren, Bailey (Jacob) Wehner, Devin (Sydney) Morris, and Jared (Heidi) Morris, Layne, Colby (Aloera), and Kendra Hurla, two step-grandchildren, Joel Campbell and Kortney (Xavier) Martinez, five great-granchildren, and 4 step great-grandchildren. Two additional great-granddaughters are expected in August and September.

Charles raised his family in the Rossville community where he was active in his kids activities at school and in 4-H supporting their many endeavors. He helped his son restore a 1968 Mercury Cougar and was adamant that his daughters could change a flat tire when they started driving. He was meticulous about maintaining his yard and flowers, routinely enjoyed coffee at the Swirley Top, and loved sitting on the front porch in his porch swing. Camping at Sycamore Springs with his kids and many nieces and nephews were favorite memories for his whole family. He did lots of woodworking and was excited when he mastered the lathe in making the nursery furniture for his grandchildren. His grandchildren and great-grandchildren were his greatest joy.

The date and time for a memorial Mass of Christian Burial and interment at Rossville Cemetery is pending and will be announced later. 

Memorial contributions in Charles’ memory may be made to either the Capper Foundation or to St. Stanislaus Catholic Church.