YUKON, Okla. (OBV) – Renowned Oklahoma businessman Bob Funk Sr. died on Tuesday at the age of 85.
Oklahoma’s business community is mourning the loss of Funk, who was beloved for his leadership in Oklahoma’s staffing industry and dedication to growing Oklahoma and fostering prosperity.
“I am deeply saddened by the passing of Bob Funk Senior, a true Oklahoma giant. His impact on our state will be felt for generations,” said Chad Warmington, President and CEO of The State Chamber of Oklahoma. “I had the honor of serving alongside Bob on the board of the Oklahoma Youth Expo, where his unwavering generosity and commitment to young people in agriculture were nothing short of extraordinary. His support for Oklahoma’s youth was unmatched, and his belief in the power of opportunity helped shape countless lives.”
Funk was passionate about business and economic development, according to Warmington.
“Bob was a tireless businessman who never lost sight of what mattered most, people. Through Express Employment Professionals, he helped millions find meaningful work. He truly understood the dignity and hope that a good job brings,” Warmington said. “He was a passionate advocate for agriculture, business, and the promise of Oklahoma. Bob believed in this state, its people, and its future—and he backed that belief with action, every single day. He will be greatly missed.”
Funk had a stellar reputation as business leader that dates back to the early 1980s.
He co-founded Express Employment Professionals, now one of the nation’s top staffing agencies, in Oklahoma City in 1983 and led the company as its CEO for 35 years. His devotion to his company never wavered, remaining its Executive Chairman of the Board until his death.
Funk was also chairman of the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City from 2006-2007. He also served as chairman of the Conference of Chairmen for the Federal Reserve Bank System in 2007. He was frequently sought after to provide expert analysis on economic and business matters across the U.S., according to his obituary.
He supported the FFA, Oklahoma Youth Expo and served on numerous boards, including the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber and the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum.
He was inducted 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 for his contributions to the staffing industry.
Several state leaders released tributes to Funk. Those tributes are as follows:
From Oklahoma Senate President Pro Tempore Lonnie Paxton:
“Oklahoma has lost one of its greatest champions with the passing of Bob Funk, a man whose deep faith, strong family values and unshakable belief in the free market defined his extraordinary life and legacy. Bob embodied the entrepreneurial spirit. From founding Express Employment Professionals and creating jobs for hundreds of thousands of people, to building one of the most successful ranch operations in the country, his work ethic and vision were unmatched. He believed in opportunity, in rewarding hard work and in giving people the tools they needed to succeed.
What truly set Bob apart was his love for Oklahoma and his generosity. Whether it was supporting FFA, the Oklahoma Youth Expo or serving on the boards of various organizations like the Oklahoma City Chamber and the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum, Bob gave back with a joyful heart and a servant’s spirit. His philanthropic impact will be felt for generations to come.
For more than 50 years, Bob called Oklahoma home. In that time, he helped shape our state into a better place. My thoughts are with his family and all those who knew and loved him. He leaves behind a remarkable legacy of faith, service and leadership that will continue to inspire Oklahomans.”
Senate Pro Tem Lonnie Paxton
From Oklahoma House Speaker Kyle Hilbert:
“I am deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Bob Funk Sr., a man whose generosity and vision touched countless lives, including my own. As an FFA member, I was honored to receive a college scholarship from him through his generosity with the Oklahoma Youth Expo, an investment in my future that I will never forget. Funk was passionate about education and workforce development, and he dedicated his life to connecting people with opportunity, helping families find stability and hope through meaningful work. Oklahoma is a better place today thanks to Bob Funk and he will be truly missed.”
Speaker Kyle Hilbert
From Oklahoma House Democratic Leader Cyndi Munson:
“My heart goes out to my friends Bob Funk Jr. and Kim Garrett-Funk and all of the family of Bob Funk Sr.
Mr. Funk is an Oklahoma legend, helping to employ millions in Oklahoma and across our country. His work on the Oklahoma Youth Expo Board–a beloved program for those of us in the Legislature–will be long lasting. He invested in Oklahoma and our future by using his influence to give back to a state he believed in. He will be missed, and his impact will always be remembered. I will be keeping the entire Funk family and all who loved him in my prayers.”
House Democratic Leader Cyndi Munson
From Oklahoma State Treasurer Todd Russ:
“Bob Funk Sr. was a pillar of Oklahoma’s business and philanthropic community. His vision, work ethic, and generosity left a lasting mark on our state. From helping Oklahomans find meaningful work to supporting rural development and preserving our Western heritage, his impact will be felt for generations. We take comfort in the words of Scripture: ‘Well done, good and faithful servant.’ (Matthew 25:21). My thoughts and prayers are with his family during this time of loss.”
State Treasurer Todd Russ
