Robert Eugene Steinhardt, a Kansas frontman and one of the rock band’s founding members, has passed away at the age of 71.
As Robby’s wife Cindy confirmed in a heartbreaking statement shared on Facebook, the legendary violinist succumbed to complications arising from acute pancreatitis two months after he was hospitalized.
While the former co-lead singer who helped found the popular band back in 1973 began recovering from his condition, his health eventually degraded and he passed away in his wife’s arms on July 17.
“Our final journey started May 13 when Robby was admitted into the hospital with acute pancreatitis. Later that night he went into acute septic shock and was placed on life support. Outlook was very grave as he wasn’t expected to live through the night,” Cindy penned.
“Like the true fighter he is, he managed to spring back much to the amazement of his entire medical staff. Once again he cheated death and the road to recovery had begun.”
Sadly, all good things come to an end and Robby’s good fortune took a turn for the worse just when he was about to be discharged from hospital.
“65 days later, on the day he was to be released from medical care and move to the rehabilitation center to build his strength, his body had other plans. A fever set in, blood pressure became uncontrollable, the sepsis reared its ugly head again,” Cindy added.
“The medical staff at Tampa General stabilized him, he greeted me with a smile, open arms and kisses. His daughter Becky called. They had a beautiful, happy, conversation together. 6 minutes later as I held him to keep him warm, he died in my arms at 6:30pm Saturday July 17, 2021.”
The family concluded: “We are beyond devastated as our lives were about to start a new adventure. Robby just recorded his first solo album with the talented music producer Michael Franklin at Solar Studios. A tour to start in August, Robby was so looking forward to being back on stage doing what he loved.”
Our thoughts are with Robby’s family and friends during these challenging times. Fly high with the angels, wayward son.