Robert D. Karnes, Mesa, Arizona
Former Emporia resident Robert D. Karnes died July 12, 2007, in Mesa, Ariz. He was 81 and had cancer.
Mr. Karnes taught physical education and was track and field coach at Drake University became the director of athletics in 1968. He previously was a track coach at high schools in Missouri and Kansas City. During his 15-year coaching career, he received the Missouri Valley Conference “Coach of the Year” award three times. He was director of the Drake Relays for 15 years and inducted into the Iowa Track Coaches Hall of Fame in 1985. He was president of the National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics and inducted into the NACDA Hall of Fame in 1987. He served on the U.S. Olympic Committee from 1968 to 1972. He retired in 1986.
Mr. Karnes, the son of Frank L. and Dorothy Karnes, was born Nov. 6, 1925, in Overbrook. After graduation from Overbrook High School in 1943, he enlisted in the Navy and later joined the Naval Reserve. After 43 years of service, he retired with the rank of captain.
Mr. Karnes attended Kansas State Teachers College in Emporia, then transferred to the University of Kansas where he received a bachelor’s degree in coaching and physical training. At KU, he was a member of the track and field and cross country teams. He became a two-time All-American and won more Big Seven Conference titles than any track runner in school history. He also set a record in the mile, previously set and held by Glen Cunningham. He received a master’s degree in physical education at Drake University.
The funeral was held today at Velda Rose United Methodist Church in Mesa, Ariz.
Memorial contributions may be sent to Hospice of the Valley, 1510 E. Flower St., Phoenix, AZ 85014.