Reverend Robert B. Wachter's Obituary
The Reverend Robert B. Wachter, beloved priest of the Diocese of Wichita, entered into eternal rest on August 2, 2025, at the age of 75. Known for his humble spirit, deep devotion to the Church, and unwavering love for his family, Father Wachter served the people of Kansas with grace, wisdom, and compassion for nearly 40 years.
Born on June 4, 1950, Father Bob answered God's call early in life and was ordained to the priesthood on May 8, 1976. His priestly ministry began in Wichita, where he served in a variety of roles including assistant pastor at All Saints Parish(1976), Assistant Chancellor at the diocesan Chancery (1977), hospital chaplain at St. Francis (1978), and full-time teacher at Bishop Carroll Catholic High School (1980-1983), Holy Savior (1983), St. Mary, Newton(1988), Ed. Sabbatical Holy Land (1992), St. Joseph, Conway Springs and St. Martin of Tours, Caldwell (1992-1996), Christ the King, Wichita (1997) St. Patrick’s, Parsons (2001), St. John, lola, St. Joseph, Yates Center and St. Martin Oratory, Piqua (2005), Mary Queen of Angels, Ft. Scott (2012) and St. Dismas Ministry to the Incarcerated (2019). His leadership was marked by spiritual depth, administrative care, and personal kindness. He also cherished a formative sabbatical in the Holy Land in 1992 and concluded his ministry serving as chaplain to the St. Dismas Ministry to the Incarcerated, where he offered Christ's mercy to those most in need.
Beyond his official duties, Father Bob played a cherished and active role in his large and loving family. He officiated at countless weddings and baptisms for his siblings, nieces, and nephews, bringing a joyful and personal touch to each sacred moment. Holidays with Father Bob were filled with tradition, as he often dropped by family homes bearing Russell Stover chocolates, a blessing, and a good story. He was known to linger for a game of cards, a glass of Pepsi, or to watch a St. Mary’s Colgan game, always bringing a warm presence that will be deeply missed.
Father Wachter was preceded in death by his parents, Paul and Rosemary Wachter, his sister, Jo Wachter; his brothers, Pete and Jeff Wachter; his sisters-in-law, Melanie and Becky Wachter, and his brother-in-law, Greg Evans. He is survived by his brothers, Mike, Tom, and Paul (and wife Teri); his sisters, Meg Evans, Beth Smith (and husband Chuck), and Jean Adams (and husband Frank); as well as countless nieces, nephews, and parishioners whose lives he touched with his compassion and pastoral care.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Our Lady of Lourdes on Saturday, August 9th at 10:00 a.m., with interment to follow at Highland Park Cemetery. The Rosary will be at Our Lady of Lourdes Friday, August 8, at 6:00 p.m. Condolences may be left at www.bathnaylor.com. In lieu of flowers the family expressions of sympathy in the form of memorials to Our Lady of Lourdes and/or the Retired Priest Fund. Friends may drop off or mail memorials to Bath-Naylor Funeral Home 522 S. Broadway Pittsburg, KS 66762.
"Well done, good and faithful servant."
Matthew 25:21
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