Robert Simpson "Bob" Graham Jr.

Robert "Bob" Simpson Graham Jr., 78, was greeted in Heaven like a friend by Jesus, his Savior, on Friday, September 5th, 2025. He was a husband whose love knew no bounds, a father who poured his heart into his children, a brother and grandfather whose presence brought warmth and joy, and a cherished friend whose kindness touched countless lives.

Born in Ames, Iowa on November 16, 1946, to Robert and Florence Graham, Bob was the eldest of five children - an anchor, a protector, a source of strength and inspiration.

A true sports enthusiast, Bob immersed himself in both watching and playing the games he loved. From the gridiron to the baseball diamond, and even to the rings of men's gymnastics, Bob threw himself into every challenge with fervor.

As a teen, Bob worked at SafeWay, sowing the early seeds of his strong work ethic. After graduating from Roosevelt High School in 1965, he served six years in the US Army reserves.

In 1970, Bob married Jerilyn Evans, and together they affectionately embraced the arrival of their son, Robert "Bobby" Simpson Graham III.

Bob pursued education with zeal, earning multiple degrees from Grand View College and Drake University. He was a lifelong learner whose curiosity never waned.

For over a decade, Bob dedicated his free time to an extraordinary labor of love-his "diary," as he called it. Thousands of pages rich with personal stories, cultural insights, and historical research across all eras of his life. It was a testament to his deep desire to understand, to preserve, and to share the stories that made him who he was. And his joy was in sharing these treasures-if during his researching he would come across something that could spark even a flicker of interest in you, he couldn't wait to send it your way, eager to ignite your curiosity as well.

While managing a Hinky Dinky grocery in Des Moines, Bob's path crossed with Marjorie Floden, and they were married in 1979, forging a bond filled with laughter & devotion. They later joyfully welcomed the birth of their son, Darrin.

For over thirty years, Bob served as the Communications Director at Nationwide Insurance, formerly Farmland Insurance. Even after retiring in 2013, his spirit remained vibrant among colleagues, sharing laughter and friendship over countless lunches and gatherings, never wanting to let go of those treasured connections.

Bob spent many years putting his heart into coaching youth baseball, igniting a fire within the young boys he mentored and inspiring them to embrace the true spirit of the game. His passion and dedication fostered not just skill, but character, perseverance, and hope. Through his guidance, he didn't just teach baseball-he shaped dreams, built confidence, and left an indelible legacy of love and belief that would resonate with them forever.

Bob's creativity in writing, reading, music, art, and photography was boundless. He was an avid collector-vinyl records that sang melodies of yesteryears, coins that held stories of history, and books that fed his curious mind. His gentle gestures also reflected his tender heart-searching for bells, butterflies, strawberries, and Beanie Babies for Marjorie, each gift a symbol of his affection.

Bob's grandchildren were the light of his life-his greatest pride, his endless joy. Whether teaching them lessons with patience, teasing them with a twinkle in his eye, or simply sharing in their laughter, he cherished every moment. His love for them was boundless-a legacy of warmth, humor, and unwavering support. Their smiles and their love were his greatest treasures.

Bob poured his entire heart into his family. He embodied a love so unwavering that every day spent caring for them was a testament to his commitment and devotion. His legacy of love, curiosity, kindness, and joy (and also his stubbornness!) that he leaves behind will forever illuminate the hearts of all who knew him.

Bob showed so many people what it means to serve and love like Jesus. He did not judge, he did not assume, he did not hate. Instead, he embraced people, asked about their lives, helped when and how he could, showed them they matter. That legacy carries forward… just like his love for the Cubs, and Diet Coke!

Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Robert Sr. and Florence Graham. He is survived by his wife Marjorie, sons Bobby Graham III and Darrin (Mackenzie) Graham, brother Dave (Pam) Graham, sisters Laurie Ragland, Leslie (Rick) Miller, and Cindy (James) Mitchell, his grandchildren Devin, Evangeline, Theadora, and Zander, many nieces and nephews, and countless friends.

A celebration of life gathering will be held from 4-7 pm on Friday, October 24th at Indianola Community Church. (14424 Kennedy St, Indianola , IA 50125)

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to a general fund established by the family, which will be shared among the charities Bob loved and supported.

ROBERT SIMPSON GRAHAM JR.

November 16, 1946 - September 5, 2025

Christian, Husband, Father, Son, Brother, Friend, Coach.

With love - The Grahams