Maurice J. Rohr, 85, Hays, died Saturday, February 14, 2026 at his home surrounded by his family.
He was born August 23, 1940 in Hays, the son of Nick and Louise (Pfannenstiel) Rohr. He was a graduate of Hays High School and earned a Bachelor’s Degree in animal science from Fort Hays State University. On December 27, 1971 he was united in marriage to Mary Rose Phelps in Hays, and they celebrated 54 years of marriage. Maurice was in construction and owned and operated Smoky Hill Charolais for over 60 years.
He was a member of Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church, a past president of the Ellis County Fair Board, Farm Bureau, and the Kansas Charolais Board. In 2014, Maurice received the Pioneer Award at the 50th Anniversary Charolais Show for his participation at the very first Charolais Show. He loved sports and coached his sons’ Little League teams and he cherished watching his grandchildren exhibit their cattle at the fair.
Survivors include his wife Mary Rose of the home, his sons, Mitch (Lea) Rohr of Elbert, CO and Mark (Tina) Rohr of Hays, his grandchildren, Maddy, Maguire, Macara, and MaRynn Rohr, his sister Marge (Clayton) Meyers of Hays, and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister June Koerner.
Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:00 am on Thursday, February 26, 2026 at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church with Fr. Brian McCaffrey officiating. Inurnment will follow in St. Joseph Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 9:30 am until service time, with a Rosary at 10:00 am, all on Thursday, February 26, 2026 at the church. Memorials are suggested to Immaculate of Mary Catholic Church or to the American International Junior Charolais Association (AIJCA). Services are in the care of Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home and condolences and memories of Maurice may be shared with his family at www.haysmemorial.com