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Robert Popple Obituary
Robert Kane Popple, Sr., 94, passed away December 16, 2014, in Des Moines, IA. Bob was born February 8, 1920, in Des Moines, to the late Joseph and Marguerite Kane Popple. Upon the entry of the United States into World War II, Bob left the University of Iowa early and enlisted in the Navy. He was commissioned as an Ensign on April 23rd, 1943, at Navy Pier. Bob was commander of a landing craft on Omaha Beach in Normandy on D-Day, and later served in the Pacific Theater in the Philippines and Tokyo.
Bob married Esther Marion Wise on April 23, 1943, in Chicago. Upon his discharge from the Navy, he returned to Des Moines and entered the banking business, while also earning his degree from Drake University. Bob spent his entire working life in banking throughout Iowa and Missouri, beginning as a mail boy and working up to Bank President.
He will be missed by his children, Susan VanOrsdel (Robert) of Des Moines; and Robert, Jr. (Lori) of Manitowoc, WI; his grandchildren, John VanOrsdel, Sarah Gusse (Derek) of Des Moines; Allison Popple (Jeremy Gamble) of Oshkosh, WI, and Ryan Popple of Milwaukee, WI; and his great-grandchildren, Michael and Madeline Gusse of Des Moines. Preceding him in death were his first wife, Esther; second wife, Pat; sister, Doris; and brother, Joe (Buddy).
A private family service has already taken place. Memorial contributions can be made, in Bob's name, to Big Brothers Big Sisters 810 Washington Street, Manitowoc.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Robert Popple
Randy and Nancy Knapp
December 29, 2014
To Bob, Lori, Allison and Ryan, we are sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Todd and Derek Popple
December 25, 2014
Susan and Buster
Sad to hear of uncle Bob's passing
He was an amazing man and lived life well
Our condolences
Patti Pender
December 23, 2014
Susan and Buster, I am so sorry for your loss.
pam blithe
December 21, 2014
Dear Susan, Bob and families, we will miss your father, his broad smile, colorful life stories and his sincere interest when he talked to a person.
God Bless Robert and his families as you deal with his loss, but remember him with wonderful memories.
Jeff Smith
December 21, 2014
Sue and Buster. Sorry for your loss. Bob was the last of the wonderful group of friends. He always had a smile and something positive to say. Thinking of you both.
December 19, 2014
Our sympathy to you on the passing of Bob's father. He sounded like he was an outstanding man who lived life to the fullest. I'm sure you have many wonderful memories. Deanna & Paul Wallander
December 19, 2014
Susie and Buster,
I am so sorry for your loss.
Uncle Bob was my favorite uncle. He was always the person I looked forward to seeing on our vacations.
The world is a lesser place without him.
Becky
December 19, 2014
My thoughts and prayers are with all of you during this difficult time.
Barb Reed
Lowell Johnson
December 18, 2014
To Bob, Lori, Allison and Ryan - my thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. I know you have a lifetime of wonderful memories to always hold close in your heart.
December 17, 2014
We were so sorry to hear of Uncle Bob's passing....I just wish we could have seen him when we were there.....what a great guy...our prayers are with you at this difficult time....Love, Joan and Dan
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