Dr. Robert G. McNamee

Bob was born in Waterloo, Iowa on January 22, 1937, the 2nd son of Jim and Helen McNamee. He and his older brother, Jim, were always close and remained so until Jim's death last year.

He attended West High School in Waterloo and enjoyed enduring friendships with fellow divers and many on the wrestling team. His years coaching diving began in Waterloo too. Though still young, he was a great motivator and always led by example, never coercion or fear. Playing music while the divers practiced was one of his things, but when they heard 'It only hurts for a while' by the Ames Brothers, they knew they were in for a heck of a workout. His subtlety knew no bounds.

An avid sports fan, Bob's love of the Iowa Hawkeyes never wavered. He attended the University of Iowa, both for undergrad and dental school. He dove competitively while attending U of I as well. The legendary exploits of the annual shows the swimmers and divers put on can make you wonder how he made it out ok. Intentionally igniting the costume before diving from the rafters of the pool house into the water below, come to mind.

After dental school, he joined the US Navy. Stationed in Bermuda, he was a dentist on the base. Certainly, honing his craft on fellow Navy men and Marines, some so tough they refused any measure of pain avoidance, gave him a great respect for them and their service.

After the Navy, Bob moved with his young family to Des Moines and began his civilian dental career in Beaverdale. Along with his loyal team, many mouths were kept healthy and smiling over decades in practice. Not only did he keep his licenses active until last year, he advised others considering dentistry as their vocation.

Beyond his dental practice and family, Bob returned to coaching diving. He led the team at Roosevelt High School, was involved with various AAU teams, prepared to travel to the U.S.S.R. with the US Olympic team, never getting over the boycott that ended that trip, and finished his coaching career at William & Mary in Williamsburg, VA.

It was through Bob's association with diving that he met his wife of over 30 years, Barbara. Involved in various capacities with USA Artistic Swimming, her many trips to events around the world allowed them great adventures, as well as a new audience for Dr. Mac to further expand his guidance and impact on budding athletes.

Always curious and engaged, Bob loved reading books, especially those about aviation and the military. His many retired armed forces pals were always a source of intriguing true life stories that he thoroughly enjoyed.

His passion for golf allowed him many opportunities to make lifelong friends, volunteer for local pro tournaments, take road trips to amazing courses, and an obsession his family could all support when choosing gifts.

Bob was always there for you, not on his terms, but yours. He connected with everyone in such an individual way, and always met you where you were. His caring and guidance knew no bounds, and the positive trajectory he inspired reaches far and wide.

Through his recent journey, there wasn't a clinician, caregiver, or hospice nurse, who didn't love Bob. The recurring remarks: what a lovely man, such an honor to know him, he was so kind and supportive. They were all very committed to his well being and comfort because of how he connected with each of them.

Barbara will step in to keep our family on a path that Bob inspired. He leaves behind:

Wife: Barbara McNamee

Children: Lynn (Stephanie Spunt) McNamee; Dan (Lana) McNamee; Brad (Mimi Mashiah) McNamee; Karen (Tony) Jaramillo; Howard (Margie) Crabtree; Rob Crabtree; Chris (Young Mi) Organ

Grandchildren: Gabe Baedaro; Mike Naumovski; Quentin McNamee; Connor McNamee; Veronica McNamee; Brittany (Ryan) Raybuck; Ryan Hertzler; Brandon (Chrissy) Jaramillo, Dustin Jaramillo, Alex Jaramillo, Kelly Crabtree; Kate Crabtree; Johann Organ; Audrey Organ; Stefan Organ

Great Grandchildren: David Raybuck, Abby Jaramillo

The family will hold a private celebration of life in Nags Head, North Carolina, one of he and Barbara's favorite family vacation spots.

In his honor, please follow Bob's example and donate your time or support to a cause close to your heart. Our wish is that his legacy continues through inspiring selfless giving so that others may thrive.

We'll miss you Dr. Mac.