Des Moines, Iowa
Age 79
Robert "Bob" H. Stecker Sr.
Des Moines
Robert "Bob" H. Stecker Sr. 79, passed away in his home 24, March 2011. Bob was born in Richmond Heights, MO. He was of strong character, deep in quiet self-reliance, discipline and endurance. He joined the U.S. Army in 1952 and had a wonderful 20 year career as an infantry officer, which included tours in Vietnam and many years working with scout dog and combat tracker dog teams. He loved working with military dogs and he was instrumental in developing the infrastructure in Vietnam that provided dog teams to many grateful soldiers. Bob, met retirement from serving his country by turning his attention to serving the people of Iowa. Working for the Office of Disaster Services he was involved across the state in assisting local officials in response plans for disasters ranging from agricultural chemical spills to tornado and flood response and even the nuclear threat of the Cold War. A job well done by a good and faithful servant. As a husband and father providing for his family was foremost in his heart. He is survived by Beverly, his loving bride of 51 years and is currently a popular resident at Ramsey Village in Des Moines. His legacy continues in the lives of children, Dennis Stecker, Lori Overton (Dave), Rob Stecker (Sylvia) and Stacey Stecker Jones. His grandchildren, Nickalaus Stecker, Wendy Crane (James), Jon, Danny and Chad Overton, Madi and Michael Jones, Erika, Alex, Adam and Olivia Stecker. His great-grandchildren, Kaitlyn, Nathan, Tyler and Brittney Overton and the latest addition of twelve week old Abigail Sue Crane. Thank you Dad for all your love, guidance and care. Rest in peace with dignity, you will be missed. Services will be held 12 p.m., Friday, April 1 at Merle Hay Funeral Home (4400 Merle Hay Rd., Des Moines). Burial will follow with a well earned military tribute at 2 p.m. at the Iowa Veterans Cemetery in Van Meter.
Memorial contributions may be made in his name to either Ramsey Village in Des Moines or to the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of America, www.ccfa.org. Online condolences may be made at www.merlehayfuneralhome.com
To my friend Rob & the entire Stecker family, my condolences on the loss of your father. He was a tremendous man who I got to know through playing baseball at Beaverdale with Rob and his support of us will never be forgotten. Our thoughts & prayers are with you all during this difficult time
Steve Nichols
March 31, 2011 | Dahlonega, GA
VFW Post 738, will keep the family of this retired solider in there paryers. We also send our sympathy to the family on there lost of this solider.
Travis Holden
VFW Post 738
Commander
March 31, 2011
Even though I was little I do remember your Dad at family gatherings. These memories are so special to me because I have so few of my Dad's side of the family. I understand the loss you feel now and the memories you remember now, but as time goes on you will remember ones you thought you have forgotten and those are the ones that will bring the smiles. He will be missed by all who knew him and loved him. Thank you Bob for your service to your country and thank you to family for your...
Mickie Moffitt
March 31, 2011 | Woodward, IA
Grandpa, I love you sooo much and it wil be hard without you. I'll always cherish the memories with you, especially our last day together, St. Patricks Day. You were an amazing person and I thank God you were given to me as a grandfather. I salute you grandpa, lots of love, see you later :)
Madi Jones
March 30, 2011 | Des Moines, IA
The one lesson I have learned from my Dad, was to Love my Country, Support our Troops, When the Flag passes by Stand Tall with your hand on your heart. Respect the American Flag at all cost..I will continue in my journey Dad to always support our troops of today and past. Love our Veterans for all they have done for us....Thank you for these important lessons Pop!! and PS. Dad--They are still looking for the Birth Certificate...LOL...Love you
Lori Overton
March 30, 2011 | Ankeny, IA
You were a Military Hero to lots of people Dad, included your family...Your love for your country was amazing...The one lesson I will always cherish from you is Respect for our County, our Flag and always support our troops. I will carry that with me always...and Dad, they are still looking for the Birth Certificate. Love you always
Lori Overton
March 30, 2011 | Ankeny, IA
A hero to so many - especially his family! Was so glad to be able to meet him last year. The circumstances were awful, but I got to see him in "Dad" mode, protector and defender. My sympathy to all of the family on this loss.
Becky
Becky Heth
March 30, 2011 | Johnston, IA