Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
FUNERAL HOME
Robert Spellman Obituary
Des Moines
Robert W. "Robb" Spellman, 36, of Des Moines passed away peacefully at his home on Saturday, October 21, 2017. He was born in Des Moines, Iowa on October 4, 1981, to Kassie and Patrick Spellman.
He graduated from Dowling Catholic High School in 2000 and from the University of Iowa in 2004 with Bachelor of Arts degrees in Political Science and in Communications. Additionally, Robb received his Bachelor of Arts degree in K-12 Art Education from Grandview University in 2009.
Robb's heart was larger than life. His passion, kindness, and charisma contributed to a successful career as an art teacher and educator to thousands of students in the Johnston Community School District. Also an enormously talented, well-known, and gifted artist for the past 13 years, he had the privilege of painting and exhibiting his work in a sun-filled studio in the heart of downtown Des Moines. In Robb's own words, "I am really interested in the journey of a painted line and where a brushstroke can take you visually." His use of vibrant color in his paintings expressed the beauty of life. Robb displayed his beautiful work in art galleries in Des Moines, Omaha, Chicago, and the East Coast.
Robb loved growing up in the country with his parents, two brothers, and two sisters—all of whom adored him to pieces. He was the very best son, brother, and uncle to his loving family. Robb cherished family get-togethers, especially long dinners around the table with all of his family.
Robb's creativity, along with his ability to touch the lives of so many people, truly made him one-of-a-kind. He was a warm-hearted and gentle soul, and the positive influence he made on those around him will continue to live on. Robb was kind, witty, intelligent, and he spoke from his heart. He had a wonderful sense of humor, a warm smile, and a twinkle in his eye. He was loved by everyone who was lucky enough to have met him.
Robb is survived by his loving parents, Patrick and Kassie (Laughlin) Spellman, Sr. of Des Moines; his four siblings, Sean (Courtney) Spellman of West Des Moines, Meaghan (Tyler) Tigges of Urbandale, Molly Spellman (Travis Larsen) of West Des Moines, and Patrick (Lindsey) Spellman, Jr. of Des Moines; his ten nieces and nephews, Riley, Walker, Maggie, and Cassidy Spellman; Mairin, Sloane, and CamrynTigges; Clara and Jake Larsen; Patrick "Tripp" James Spellman III; and numerous uncles, aunts, and cousins. Everyone loved Robb.
Robb was preceded in death by his grandparents, T.J. "Jerry" and Arlene "Jake" Laughlin, and Edward and Rose Mary Spellman.
A visitation will be held prior to the funeral service from 9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m., Thursday, October 26, 2017 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church 1627 Grand Avenue, West Des Moines. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. immediately following the visitation. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Des Moines Art Center, Robert W. Spellman Scholarship Fund to support student artists, c/o Patrick Spellman, Sr., 4012 John Lynde Road, Des Moines, IA 50312. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.IlesFuneralHomes.com. Hold your loved ones close and celebrate each and every day together.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Robert Spellman
Sponsored by Iles Dunn’s Funeral Home.
Robert Huggins
October 18, 2020
Barbara and I still think of him and miss his sunny sweet personality.
Mary Kay Kirsner
November 26, 2017
Dear Molly, Elizabeth and I were so very sad to learn of your loss. Elizabeth always remembered you taking her to Robb's gallery when you babysat for us and for years every time we passed it she would point out that it was Robb's shop. Please accept our most sincere condolences on your loss. I too lost a sibling as a young adult. May God's peace be with you.
Major John Aren
October 27, 2017
Robb was a strong supporter of The Salvation Army mission during my short stay in Des Moines and remembered with fond memories for his participation is service to those less fortunate than ourselves. His contribution will be missed.
Nadene Eller
October 26, 2017
A few years ago, my husband and I visited the Timber Ridge book fair during conference week. Our granddaughter, however, had a different focus. She wanted us to meet her art teacher! It was obvious immediately that Mr Spellman not only knew our granddaughter ( one student among hundreds), but he conversed about her projects, all the while smiling and being very gracious to us. Our granddaughter told us later that she would like to become an artist and maybe teach someday. * There's no doubt who her inspiration was.We are both retired teachers and saw firsthand the genius of this teacher. Our heart breaks for your family loss and for the students and educational community to lose this talented, inspirational leader.
How you can show support
Follow
Get email updates whenever changes are made.
Send flowers
Consider sending flowers.
Add photos
Share their life with photo memories.
Plant trees
Honor them by planting trees in their memory.
Donate in Memory
Make a donation in memory of your loved one.
Share this page
Invite other friends and family to visit the page.
Debora Dickinson
October 26, 2017
My heart just sank when I read about your beloved son's passing. We have met before but I'm writing because Robb graduated with my son from Dowling in 2000. From one parent to another I just want to express my sadness and sympathy to the Spellman family fot their great loss. May God be with Robb and all of you!
Samantha Thomas
October 26, 2017
Oh beautiful soul you left us all with so many meaningful moments and memories and it plagues my heart that conversations about art and teaching and travel will cease. You will go on in all of us and the work we do. Thank you for inspiring the lives of so many. May you find peace.
Christopher Snethen
October 26, 2017
I am so sorry for your loss.
October 25, 2017
Dear Kassie, Pat and Family,
I am so very sorry for the loss of your son and brother. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
Carmie Tursi Hobbins
Jane O'Hollearn
October 25, 2017
I the honor and privilege of working with Robb on a project for the Johnston schools. From the moment I met Robb, I was warmed by his smile and welcoming personality. The Lord took a good one from us. My sincere sympathies go out to your entire family. May God bless you during your time of grief.
Jeanette Knudsen
October 25, 2017
Our prayers are with you in this time of sadness, but also a celebration of the life he had. Merlyn & Jeanette Knudsen
Denia Phipps
October 25, 2017
I am so deeply sorry for your loss. Words cannot express.
Ginny Harkin
October 25, 2017
Kassie and Pat,
I am so saddened by Robb's death. He was an exceptional individual and I am thankful I had the opportunity to work with him for a few years at Horizon Elementary. We talked about many things beyond work and I was concerned when he stopped responding to my emails and calls after he left Timberidge. He will be missed by many. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. I cannot attend the services as I am recovering from surgery. I will be with you in spirit.
Will Bheg
October 25, 2017
Inspired by his art. And knew him. Sad he passed on but he will watch over us from heaven
Matt & Jessica McCauley
October 25, 2017
Our deepest apologies from my wife and myself for your loss. You are in our thoughts and prayers
October 24, 2017
May the care and love of those around you provide comfort and peace to get you through the days ahead. Our most sincere condolences.
Brenda, Bailey, and Jacob Fay
October 24, 2017
Pat and Family,
So very sorry to hear of the loss of your son Robb.
My sincere condolences and you are in my thoughts and prayers.
Sincerely
Mary Ann Costello Kinkade
Bartlesville, Oklahoma
Bob Craven
October 24, 2017
My sincere condolences and prayers. Eternal rest grant unto him O Lord and may perpetual light shine upon him .
October 24, 2017
Dear Spellman Family-
Robb was a kind and caring person. He made a positive impact on everyone he met. I feel fortunate to have known him and to have talked with him about art, music, education and family. He will be missed.
Jolene Rude
Brooke Bruggemann
October 24, 2017
He was my favorite art teacher I ever had. I have shared so many great memories with him and will miss him dearly. Rest In Peace Mr. Spellman
Jolie Davis
October 24, 2017
Robb was a wonderful, talented artist, and he was also a warm and marvelous person to talk with. I'm grateful to have known him, and I'm grateful to own several of his amazing paintings. The world is a sadder place today.
jane sullivan howard
October 24, 2017
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
October 24, 2017
Pat, Kassie, Sean, Meaghan, Molly and Patrick;
So very sorry to hear of Robb's death. Our kids still have fond memories of Robb and all the Spellman kids around the corner and over the bridge in the little blue house. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you. - Steve and Dee Ann Green
Danne Jones
October 24, 2017
He was an amazing and talented young man.
My family was blessed to have met him.
He was a good friend to me.
Kathy Hoskinson
October 24, 2017
Pat, Kassie and family. Please know we are sending our deepest sympathy for your loss. Mark and Robb were good friends throughout their years at St Pats. Robb was always a joy to have at the house. Such a sweet, talented, kind, wonderful young man. Our hearts go out to you and your family.
Bob & Barbara Huggins
October 24, 2017
We are devastated to just now learn of this young mans passing. He brought me an orchid this mother's day in a surprise visit. We loved him so much.
A lovely memory.
Barbara Huggins
October 24, 2017
We are devastated to just now learn of this young mans passing. He brought me an orchid this mother's day in a surprise visit. We loved him so much.Bob
David Fontanini
October 24, 2017
Pat and Kassie and your family have my sincere condolences and you are in my thoughts and prayers.
Julie Sedore
October 24, 2017
A great teacher, he was one of my daughter's favorites at Timber Ridge. Prayers for peace at this time of loss.
Korey Averill
October 24, 2017
My condolences to the Spellmans. May Robb rest in peace.
Kimberly Reisner
October 23, 2017
Robb was a genuinely kind person... Not one to have something gained by being kind. Just BECAUSE. He lived exuberantly in his personality and he shined thru his work. I didn't know him well, yet he made an impression. A lasting one.
May his memories, art, and lives he touched be a beacon of light and comfort.
Bill Clark
October 23, 2017
Barb and I share with deep grief the passing of this extrodiary person. He leaves a profound legacy. We pray for all the dear family and friends who are so painfully impacted. May his peace and God's rest be yours in the days ahead.
Abbey Kozitza
October 23, 2017
Our sincerest condolences to the Spellman family!!!Thoughts, prayers, and hugs!Sincerely,Abbey
Showing 1 - 33 of 33 results
Make a Donation
in Robert Spellman's name
Memorial Events
for Robert Spellman
Oct
26
People and places connected with Robert
Recent Obituaries
Recent Obituaries
Recent Obituaries
Recent Obituaries
Recent Obituaries
How to support Robert's loved ones
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor Robert Spellman's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
