Robert J. Karlin, 85, of Hays, Kansas, passed away on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, at Hays Medical Center in Hays.
He was born on February 27, 1941, in Hays, Kansas, to Fidelis Karlin and Henrietta (Staab) Karlin.
Robert was united in marriage to Paulette Von Lintel Karlin on October 1, 1960, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Hays, Kansas. Together, they built a life centered on faith, family, hard work, and adventure.
He attended St. Joseph Military Academy and carried that strength, discipline, and determination throughout his life. Robert was a hardworking and driven businessman who owned and operated K&N Communications out of Colby, Kansas, and Imperial, Nebraska. Through his work, he fabricated, manufactured, and installed radio communication towers, often standing 300 to 400 feet high. He took great pride in his work and in the skill, courage, and dedication it required.
Robert was an avid outdoorsman who truly embraced life. He enjoyed fishing and hunting, and he also had a passion for motorcycle riding, skiing, and mountain climbing. His adventurous spirit led him to summit more than 50 mountain peaks. He remained active throughout his entire life, and his family fondly shared that he was in the peak shape of his life at age 62.
Robert will be remembered as a man of remarkable strength, endurance, and determination, with a deep love for the outdoors and a fearless spirit for adventure. His legacy is one of hard work, perseverance, and living life to the fullest.
He is survived by his wife, Paulette; sons: Allen Karlin, Charles “Andy” Karlin, and Rob Karlin; daughters: Jacque Karlin, and Jennifer Karlin; brothers: Norman Karlin and Bernie Karlin, his four grandchildren: Jeff, Marcus, Sarah, Sophi, and great grandchildren, Jasmine, Lena, Elena, and Stella.
Robert was preceded by his parents, sisters-in-law: Marilyn Karlin and Jan Karlin, and his sister: Elaine Giebler.
A memorial gathering to celebrate Robert’s life will be held later, with inurnment in the St. Catherine Cemetery – Catharine, Kansas.
In lieu of flowers memorials are suggested to Hospice at HaysMed in care of the funeral chapel.
Memories and words of comfort may be shared with Robert’s family on his tribute page via: www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com Cremation under the direction of Keithley Funeral Homes and Crematory – Brock’s Chapel 2509 Vine Street Hays, Kansas 67601.