Robert J. Grover

Robert J. “Bob” Grover, Emporia, Kansas, passed away at his home on Saturday, November 22, 2025 at the age of 83.

Robert was born in La Porte, Indiana on October 27, 1942, the son of John T. and Gladys Marie (Hartner) Grover. Bob and Susan G. Fowler were united in marriage on August 5, 1995 at Grace United Methodist Church, Emporia, Kansas. Susan survives of the home. Bob is also survived by his son, Robert S. Grover, and a brother, Gerald V. “Jerry” Grover. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Susan (Shaw) Grover, who passed away in July of 1973, his parents, and an infant child.

Dr. Grover received his B.A. in English Education and Library Science from Ball State University in 1965, his Master in Library Science from Indiana University in 1970, and his Ph.D. in Library Science from Indiana University in 1976. Dr. Grover served in several positions at Emporia State University, Emporia, Kansas: Dean of the School of Library and Information Management (1981-1987, 1998-2003, 2006-2007), Professor of Library and Information Management (1990-1998, 2007-2008), Associate Vice President for Academic Affairs (2003-2007), and Dean of Graduate Studies (2003-2006). Dr. Grover also served as Director and Professor at the University of Southern Florida (1987-1990). He began his higher education career at the University of Southern California (1976-1981), serving as Assistant Professor then Assistant Dean of the School of Library and Information Management. Earlier in his career he served as a School Library Media Specialist, Newspaper Reporter and English Teacher. Most recently he was the Lay Pastor at the Bazaar (Kansas) United Methodist Church, Bazaar, Kansas.

Bob was a member of Trinity United Church of Christ, Chicago, Illinois. He was an active member of the Emporia Lions Club, having served in various offices and was President in 2007-2008. He was an Op-Ed Columnist for The Emporia Gazette and an active member of a number of organizations including the Current Club, Emporia Area and Kansas Retired School Personnel, The Silver Haired Legislature, American and Kansas Library Associations, and the League of Women Voters of Emporia.

A Celebration of Bob’s life will be held at the First United Methodist Church, Emporia, Kansas on Friday, December 5, 2025 at 11:00 A.M.. Family and friends will gather at the Roberts-Blue-Barnett Funeral Home, Emporia, Thursday evening, December 4, 2025 from 6:30 to 8:00 PM for visitation. Cremation has occurred.

Memorial contributions to Hand-In-Hand-Hospice or Trinity United Church of Christ Chicago may be sent in care of the funeral home, PO Box #175, Emporia, Kansas 66801