Bartelli Named 52nd Annual LCC Cardinal Citation Award Recipient

Labette Community College (LCC) and the LCC Alumni Association are pleased to announce that Robert (Bob) Joseph Bartelli has been selected as the recipient of the 2024 Cardinal Citation Award. This prestigious and long-running award is presented annually to individuals who have demonstrated a lifetime of exceptional service to their community and/or to the college. This is the highest honor that LCC bestows upon individuals.

Bartelli, a respected figure in Parsons, was born on December 7, 1941, in Pittsburg, coinciding with the historic date of Pearl Harbor Day. He moved to Parsons at a young age and has since dedicated his life to serving his hometown and its people. Bob's contributions extend across various facets of community life, making him a deserving recipient of this esteemed award.

Bartelli's ties to LCC and the Parsons community are deep-rooted. He grew up and attended elementary and high school Parsons.  Next, Bartelli began his higher education at Parsons Junior College, the predecessor of LCC. He graduated from PJC in 1961. During his high school and college years, Bartelli worked alongside his parents at Sally Ann Bakery Inc. 

Next, he pursued further education at the University of Kansas and Pittsburg State University. He graduated from PSU in 1963 with a bachelor's degree in business administration.  

After college, he served in the Air Force Reserves before returning to Parsons to join his family in the management and eventual ownership of the Parsonian Hotel, a business deeply woven into the fabric of the community. The hotel was always operated as a family business with his wife, Cathy, four sons, and many other extended family members working with him. After 40 years of continuous family operation, the Parsonian Hotel sold in 2005.

In addition to managing the hotel, he built and managed Bartelli Carwash at 2510 Main and later purchased Steve’s Carwash at 13th and Main. He has also owned and managed numerous rental properties throughout Parsons. 

Over the years, Bartelli's commitment to Parsons has been unwavering. He has served as a Parsons City Commissioner for an impressive 32 years, including a nine-year tenure as Parsons Mayor. Additionally, he has been actively involved in numerous organizations and initiatives aimed at promoting economic development, community welfare, and civic engagement.

His dedication extends beyond the realm of public service; Bob has been a pillar of support for various community projects, including the Parsons Recreation Center, youth sports organizations, and the establishment of JOBS INC. He is also a charter member of the Iron Horse Historical Society of Parsons and has been actively involved in the Parsons Kiwanis Club for over 40 years.

Throughout his illustrious life, Bartelli has remained closely connected to LCC and its mission. He and his wife have been supporters of the college by attending events and contributing to scholarships and building projects over many years. 

Reflecting on his contributions, Bartelli emphasizes his passion for the betterment of Parsons and his desire to foster a thriving community where residents can take pride in their hometown. Whether through his role as a public official, volunteer, or advocate, his impact has left an indelible mark on Parsons and its residents.

Bartelli will be honored at the Cardinal Citation Reception prior to commencement on Friday, May 10 at 5:00 p.m. at the Cardinal Event Center. The public is invited to attend. For more information about the Cardinal Citee Award please contact Lindi Forbes at (620) 820-1212 or lindif@labette.edu.