Robert "Bob" Schauf

SIGOURNEY-Robert “Bob” Schauf, age 79, of Sigourney, Iowa, passed away peacefully at his home on October 9, 2025.

Bob was born on April 19, 1946, in Wellman, Iowa, to Doyle and Goldie (Ellis) Schauf. He graduated from Sigourney High School in 1966 and spent a brief time working in Cedar Rapids before answering the call to serve his country. In 1967, Bob enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, proudly serving in Vietnam for 13 months until his honorable discharge in 1969. A true patriot, Bob remained deeply proud of his service throughout his life.

On August 17, 1974, Bob married the love of his life, his "Honey," Debbie Northup, at the Sigourney Christian Church. Together they raised three children: Ryan, Amber, and Hayley (Greg) Hammes. Bob’s life was grounded in family, service, and community.

He dedicated 35 years to the Iowa Department of Transportation, retiring in 2010. Bob especially loved plowing snow in the winter. Some of his best stories came from behind the wheel of his plow, and he always had a tale to share.

Outside of work, Bob was a passionate sports fan, faithfully cheering on the Iowa Hawkeyes, Chicago Bears, and St. Louis Cardinals. But nothing brought him more joy than supporting his children and grandchildren in their many sporting events. Whether it meant driving across town or across the state, Bob made sure he had the best seat in the house.

In retirement, he devoted himself fully to being “Grandpa.” His grandchildren describe him as humble, goofy, a straight shooter, a one of a kind man, a tough soul with a heart of gold, and someone who showed unconditional love in everything he did. His Marine discipline sometimes shined through, but it was always with love and integrity. In recent years, Bob found deep fulfillment reconnecting with fellow Marines, sharing memories and camaraderie through the power of technology.

Bob was a member of the Sigourney Christian Church, the American Legion, and the Sigourney Pride Athletic Boosters.

Bob is survived by his beloved wife, Debbie; his children Ryan and Hayley (Greg) Hammes; and his cherished grandchildren Brianna, Payton, Madi Schauf, Makenna, DJ, and Monroe Hammes. He is also survived by his sister Evelyn Pierce; brothers-in-law Mike Northup and Jim Voss; sisters-in-law Cris Utterback and Carol Wehr; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents Doyle and Goldie Schauf; his parents-in-law Steve and Alleen Northup; his daughter Amber Schauf; sisters Frances Baumert, Dorothy Niffenger, Betty Strickler, and Rosemary Voss; nephews David and Earl Strickler; and twin great-grandbabies.

No services will be held at this time. A celebration of life will be planned at a later date.

Bob will be deeply missed, but his legacy of love, strength, humor, and devotion lives on in the many lives he touched.