Robert Eugene Drafahl, 74, of Burlington, Iowa, died Wednesday, June 3, 2026, at Southeast Iowa Regional Medical Center Hospice House in West Burlington.
Robert was born on July 19, 1951, in Burlington, Iowa. He was the son of the late Robert L. and Mary E. Drafahl. He graduated from Burlington High School in 1969. On April 8, 1978, he married Kathy S. McElhinney at the Oak Street Baptist Church in Burlington, Iowa.
Robert worked as a machinist for the Burlington Northern/BNSF RR, retiring after 42 years of service, 36 years at West Burlington Back Shops and 6 years at Galesburg Illinois Diesel Shop. He was a member of the I.A.M. Union. He was a survivor of throat cancer three times. Robert enjoyed many different activities during his life and his retirement.
Survivors include his wife Kathy, and their son Todd Drafahl.
Per family wishes there will be no visitation and only private family services will be held with Lunning Chapel. Burial will be held in Aspen Grove Cemetery.
A memorial has been established per the family for the Southeast Iowa Regional Medical Center Hospice House or the University of Iowa Hospital, Cancer Unit.