Robert Ortwein

Robert Louis “Bob” Ortwein, Jr., age 71, of Beebe, Arkansas, passed away peacefully on July 17, 2025.

Born on March 11, 1954, in St. Louis, Missouri, Bob spent most of his life in southwest Missouri before settling in Beebe, where he lived for the past seven years. He proudly served his country in the United States Navy for two years and later built a 30-year career as a dedicated truck driver.

Known to family and friends simply as Bob, he was a man who found joy in the simple, meaningful parts of life — time with his family, tinkering with projects big and small, and spending weekends at local auctions with the love of his life. His hands were rarely still, and his heart was always open.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 19 years, Linda Ortwein; his children, NormaJean Sumrall, Denise Matlock, and Kenneth Sumrall; one stepson from a previous marriage, Frankie; seven grandchildren; and thirteen great-grandchildren, all of whom brought him great pride and joy.

He was preceded in death by his father, his brother, and one beloved great-granddaughter.

A funeral service to honor Bob’s life will be held on Saturday, July 26, 2025, at Smith-Westbrook Funeral Home, 404 W. Dewitt Henry Dr., Beebe, Arkansas 72012, with burial in Meadowbrook Memorial Gardens. Family and friends are invited to gather, remember, and celebrate the life of a man whose kindness, work ethic, and love for family left a lasting mark.

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