Robert E. Sterling, youngest son of Edd and Helena Sterling, attended
     school in Hardtner, Kansas and graduated from Kansas State University,
     Manhattan, Kansas in 1951. Bob was then inducted into military service
     in the summer of 1951.
       He was married to Janice Sue Wiley of El Dorado, Kansas, April 27,
     1952. He served in the United States Army until April fo 1955, when he
     was discharged as a 1st. Sgt. He and Sue then returned to the farm and
     commenced farming in partnership with Edd and Helena.
       Bob was not only active in agriculture, but also in civic life. He 
     served on the school board over ten years, was on the Methodist Church
     board and served as Treasurer and President. He was president of the
     Chamber of Commerce for many years. He served on the Achenbach Hospital
     Board and is past Commander of the American Legion. He is a member of
     the Masonic Lodge, Consistory and Shrine. He was a director of the Kansas
     Livestock Association, and because of his quick wit and publick speaking
     ability has been master of ceremonies on many occasions.
       While serving i many of the above organizations, Bob was instrumental,
     or a key figure in promoting the building of the Co-op. Elevator in Hardtner,
     the building of Hardtner Methodist Church, and the addition to the Hardtner
     school. He was the instigator of the Hardtner Christmas Parade and the
     Annual Hardtner Fourth of July Celebration.
       In November of 1968, Bob purchased Floyd Schubach's interest in the Kiowa
     Sales Co. in Kiowa, Kansas. Later, he purchased Mr. Alberdine's interest
     and became sole owner. Since acquiring the Kiowa Sale, he and his wife
     have added the Ranch-House Restaurant and Sterling Western Wear. They have
     remained active in farming and continue to live on the farm while operating
     the business in Kiowa.
       Bob and his wife have three children: Steven Edward, born October 16, 1956;
     Sydney Sue, November 30, 1958; and Samuel Benson, September 10, 1960.
       Steve married Joni Bergren, June 6, 1977. He graduated in 1979, from
     Kansas State University and is now involved in the family business. He
     started the Kiowa Sales and Feed Store in 1978.
       Syd is employed in the Ranch House Restaurant. Sam is attending Kansas
     State University.
                
     Source:Chosen Land - Barber County, Kansas, pg. 437