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.
