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Robert (Bob) Furstenau
July 5, 1946 – October 6, 2020
Robert (Bob) Charles Furstenau passed away on Oct. 6, 2020, at the age of 74.
Bob was born on July 5, 1946, in North Bend, Nebraska, to Kathleen and Arnold Furstenau. He graduated from Cedar Bluffs High School in 1963 with a reputation as a troublemaker. He then graduated from the Kansas City Art Institute in 1969 with a degree in graphic design. Bob was drafted into the U.S. Army and served for two years in Honolulu, Hawaii, as a statistician and cartographer.
In 1972, Bob joined Meredith Corporation as a graphic designer for Better Homes and Gardens magazine. He remained at Meredith for the next 44 years, serving in various positions, guided always by his love of art and design.
Bob's wife, Valerie, was a constant source of support. In their 20 years of marriage, they shared a love of good food, good wine, and great friends. Bob insisted that, thanks to Valerie's incredible cooking, their house was the best restaurant in Des Moines.
Bob was perhaps most proud of his daughters, Adrienne and Victoria. He never missed an opportunity to visit and go on adventures with them, eager to share a drink and wisdom with the girls and their friends.
Bob's disarming energy made all who met him feel at ease, listened to, and loved. He relished in both the big and small moments in life, as happy traveling the world and riding motorcycles as he was in front of the fire, with his dogs curled up on his lap and Valerie by his side.
He is survived by his wife Valerie; daughters, Adrienne (Bill) and Victoria (Charlie); stepson, Ben; grandchildren, Jon and Abigail; sister, Cathy; brother, Ken (Shannon); and beloved nephews, Matt (Laura), Hans, Andy (Kate), Jackson and Carter. Bob will live on through our memories and the laughter of his family and friends. May the stories of Bob grow over time, just as his stories did with each retelling.
Bob received a stem-cell transplant that allowed him to survive leukemia and spend months with his family that he may not have had otherwise. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in his name to Be the Match (www.bethematch.org), which helped to make the transplant possible.
Robert was cremated per his instructions, and the family will have a celebration of life service at a later date to be announced.
Condolences may also be shared currently at www.ilescares.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Sponsored by Iles Funeral Homes - Dunn's Chapel.
3 Entries
I just tries to do a search to find out about Bob. We were friends from Hawaii. I am so sorry to hear of his passing. I am sorry that I didn't work harder to stay in touch with him over the years. I pray that you all are doing well although I know how hard it must be. God's Blessings Bill Brodak
William Brodak
June 7, 2021
Great friend, artist, foodie, photographer, and always a joy to be around. Invented the “Bob” at the Waveland Cafe, we will miss him. Thinking of Valarie and family in this difficult time.
Rob Hayes
Friend
October 15, 2020
First my customer, then a good friend. I will miss our early morning conversations and our shared interest in photography. Rest easy my friend.-Steve Palm
Steve Palm
Friend
October 11, 2020
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