Robert "Bob" Lowell Dobling

Robert “Bait Shop Bob” Lowell Dobling, 85, of Springville, Iowa, passed away on Thursday, December 11, 2025, at his home. The family will greet friends from 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. on Saturday, January 3, 2026, at Murdoch Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Marion, Iowa. A Masonic Service will be held at 12 p.m. on Saturday, January 3, 2026, at the funeral home, immediately followed by a Celebration of Life. Inurnment will take place at a later date at Lost Nation Cemetery in Lost Nation, Iowa.

Bob was born on October 15, 1940, in Davenport, Iowa, the son of Lowell and Irene (Bicknese) Dobling. He was a graduate of Lost Nation High School and went on to earn his bachelor’s degree in business from The University of Iowa in 1962. On June 24, 1962, Bob was united in marriage to Arlette June Oster in Oxford Junction. Together, they had two children. Sadly, she passed away in 2005. On February 7, 2009, Bob married Susan Eileen Fuller in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Bob’s life was marked by a steadfast commitment to his work, family, and community. He began his career in the insurance industry selling Bankers Life Insurance. Following this, he dedicated 18 years of service at Collins Radio, where he made lasting contributions during a transformative period in communication technology. After his tenure at Collins Radio, Bob and his late wife, Arlette, ventured into entrepreneurship as owners and operators of Marion Live Bait, a business that would later also include his second wife, Susan. Together, they ran the business for many years until Bob's retirement after three decades in 2009.

Bob was not only a dedicated professional, but he also took an active role in his community. He served on the Board of Directors for 15 years at the Otter Creek Gun Club, contributing to the local outdoor and shooting sports community. His involvement with the Masonic Lodge spanned over 50 years, reflecting his commitment to the values of brotherhood and service. Additionally, Bob was a member of Friends of Bill for an impressive 43 years, showcasing his dedication to personal growth and support for others facing challenges. Bob is remembered for his unwavering spirit, kindness, and the positive impact he made on those around him. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Bob is survived and lovingly remembered by his wife of 16 years, Susan Fuller of Springville; two children, Tesha Dobling (Mark Floyd) of Marion, and Brett Dobling (Karen Shebek) of Fairfax, Iowa; two stepchildren, Sarah (Brian) Beckman Iowa City, Iowa, and Thomas (Jen) Fuller Oxford, Iowa; six grandchildren, Jessica (James) Hoy of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Broc (Mackenzie) Dobling Central City, Iowa, Bryle (Allison) Dobling of Urbana, Iowa, McKenzie Fuller of Denver, Colorado, Taylor Fuller of Marion, and Ty Fuller of Oxford; seven great-grandchildren, Violet, Bennet, Hux, Hudson, Jake, Jaret, and Jimmy; brother-in-law, Gary Oster of Tipton, Iowa; sister-in-law, Barb Dobling of Georgia; two nephews, Brian Dobling and Michael Dobling; and niece Mary Elizabeth Aloisio.

He was preceded in death by his parents; first wife, Arlette Dobling; and brother, Richard Dobling.

A memorial fund has been established in Bob’s honor to benefit several charities to be determined at a later date.