paul@franserve.com

OKLAHOMA CITY — Robert A. Funk, co-founder and executive chairman of Express Employment International, passed away at the age of 85 at his home, Express Ranches, in Yukon, Oklahoma.

A trailblazing entrepreneur and devoted leader, Bob was admired for his steadfast faith, commitment to helping others, and belief in the transformative power of work. Throughout his lifetime, he helped grow Express Employment Professionals into one of the world’s leading staffing firms, creating opportunities for individuals and businesses across North America and beyond.

“My father was a trailblazing entrepreneur who loved the American West and lived true to its values of honesty, respect, ruggedness, self-reliance, loyalty and hard work,” said Bob Funk, Jr., CEO, President and Chairman of Express Employment International. “He played a pivotal role in shaping the vision and growth of Express Employment Professionals, the company he co-founded in 1983. For more than four decades, he remained committed to putting people to work and offering hope through employment. His job-creating mission continues to resonate across our global enterprise and helped build the top staffing franchise in America.”

Bob Funk Sr. served as Chairman of the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City from 2006 to 2007. In 2007, he also held the role of Chairman of the Conference of Chairmen for the Federal Reserve Bank System.

His contributions to the staffing industry were widely recognized, including his induction into the American Staffing Association Hall of Fame in 2023, the Staffing 100 Hall of Fame by Staffing Industry Review in 2017, and the International Franchise Association Hall of Fame in 2010.

Beyond his entrepreneurial ventures, he was a successful cattleman, renowned globally for the Angus cattle operations. Teamed with his dear friend, Jarold Callahan, who passed away late last year, Express Ranches became the world’s largest producer of registered Angus cattle. His love for the land, respect for the animals and commitment to his colleagues were all part of his multifaceted character.

Bob Funk Sr.’s legacy extends beyond his corporate and cattle operations. His dedication to Western culture, community service and entrepreneurship has left an indelible mark on Oklahoma and beyond. He served as Chairman of the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber of Commerce, the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum and the Oklahoma Youth Expo.

Recognizing his impactful leadership and invaluable service to Oklahoma and the great American West, he was inducted into the Oklahoma Hall of Fame in 2017 and into the Hall of Great Westerners in 2023 by the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum.

Under his leadership, he re-energized the Oklahoma Youth Expo, making it the nation’s largest annual junior livestock show, with over 7,000 participants across Oklahoma. Few events brought him more joy than young livestock enthusiasts showcasing their hard work and dedication.

He was a dedicated supporter of the Cowboy Hall of Fame & National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum. His contributions, in terms of time and money, significantly advanced the institution’s mission of preserving America’s Western heritage.

“His legacy is a testament to his entrepreneurial spirit and unwavering commitment to his values,” Bob Funk, Jr., added. “It will continue to thrive through the businesses he founded, the organizations he supported and the countless lives he touched. Beyond his success as a business leader, those closest to him will remember him as a kind, generous and compassionate man who loved people and lived by the Western values he held dear. Our family is heartbroken and feel his absence deeply.”

Statement from Larry Nichols, Co-Founder and former Executive Chair of Devon Energy:

“I was sad to learn the news of the passing of Bob Funk Sr., a man whose personal qualities were as remarkable as his professional achievements. He was not only a prominent Oklahoma City businessperson but also a visionary who transformed the city through his tireless work and unwavering dedication. His creation of the globally renowned staffing company Express Employment Professionals provided employment opportunities for millions across this country and beyond. His support for the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum and his reimagining of the Oklahoma Youth Expo into the world’s largest junior livestock show were testaments to his passion and commitment. His advocacy for CareerTech and contribution to the state’s education system will always be remembered and admired.”

Statement from Tyler Norvell, Executive Director of the Oklahoma Youth Expo:

“Bob Funk Sr.’s connection to the Oklahoma Youth Expo was profound and transformative. His unwavering dedication and dynamic vision drove the Expo’s growth into the giant annual event it is today. His passion for empowering young Oklahomans from every county in our state was unparalleled and life-changing. Through their hard work, care and commitment, these young individuals displayed their livestock each year—a testament to their resilience and determination and a reflection of Bob’s belief in their potential. Witnessing over 7,500 4-H and FFA members come together every spring filled Bob with immense happiness. Bob was optimistic about Oklahoma’s future because he saw firsthand the potential in these fine young men and ladies participating in the Oklahoma Youth Expo. Bob’s spirit lives on through the countless lives touched by this event. We are not just indebted to him but committed to carrying forward his vision—to ensure that the Oklahoma Youth Expo remains a platform for growth, learning and community. We will continue to nurture dreams, reward hard work and foster the emergence of the next generation of leaders, just as Bob would have wanted.”

Statement from Cathy Keating, former first lady of Oklahoma:

“With a heavy heart, I reflect on the passing of Bob Funk Sr., a remarkable man whose impact on our community and beyond was immeasurable. Having collaborated with him for decades, I can attest to his unwavering commitment to making a difference. He was a true advocate for our state. His dedication to community engagement and charitable endeavors was evident in every project he championed. Whether supporting local schools, healthcare initiatives or cultural institutions, Bob’s caring heart drove him to invest financially and with his time and energy. Bob’s legacy is woven into the fabric of countless lives that his philanthropic efforts have touched. He understood that true prosperity lies in giving back. His love for the employees at Express Employment Professionals stood out. Few things brought him joy than acknowledging, rewarding and thanking his colleagues nationwide. He recognized that their hard work and dedication were instrumental in advancing the company. Bob’s leadership style was one of appreciation and empowerment. He was a dear and cherished friend of Frank and mine, and we will miss him greatly. 

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For media inquiries, please contact Sheena.Hollander@ExpressPros.com, Director of Corporate Communications & PR.