Robert Dean Stewart

Robert Dean Stewart (61) passed away on June 17, 2025, in Des Moines, Iowa. A visitation will be held at Caldwell Parrish Funeral Home & Crematory (8201 Hickman Road, Urbandale IA) on Tuesday, June 24, 2025, from 5:30 p.m. until 7:30 p.m. Private services will be held for immediate family at a later date.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions will be dispersed to the Johnston football and Johnston baseball clubs to help the Johnston youth programs.

Robert “Bob” Dean Stewart passed away on June 17, 2025, in Des Moines, Iowa. Born on September 14, 1963, in Grinnell, Iowa, Bob lived a life defined by his deep love for family, friends, and sports.

A 1982 graduate of Grinnell High School, Bob played baseball and was a state bowler and state golfer. He went on to attend the University of Northern Iowa, proudly earning his bachelor’s degree in 1987.

Throughout his young adult life, Bob spent summers playing fast-pitch softball and weekends competing in best-ball golf tournaments. On May 12, 1995, he married Diane Weisshaar at Grinnell United Methodist Church. Together they shared 30 wonderful years of marriage for a grand total of 42 years together.

Bob’s greatest joy came from being a dad. As his children became involved in sports, his passion shifted from playing to coaching. He devoted countless hours to coaching youth soccer, baseball, football, and basketball. He served as a Little League coach and All-Star team manager pouring his heart into every team. The kids affectionately called him "Bobby Stew," and he treated them like family.

One of Bob’s most treasured moments was walking his daughter Natalie down the aisle at her wedding – a memory he held close to his heart.

After his coaching years, Bob became an avid fan, proudly cheering for the Johnston Dragons, DMACC Bears, and NIU Huskies baseball teams. His favorite season, though, was football. For over a decade, he volunteered on Friday nights with the Johnston High School chain gang – what he called “the best seat in the house”. Saturdays were reserved for tailgating and cheering on the Iowa Hawkeyes, and Sundays were often spent watching NFL games including his beloved Dallas Cowboys.

Bob dedicated 26 years of his professional life to CDS Global, where he built lasting friendships and earned the respect of his colleagues. Known for his generous spirit, Bob was a regular blood donor and, in his final act of kindness, became an organ donor -- leaving a legacy of compassion and service that will live on in the lives touched.

Bob is survived by his beloved wife, Diane Stewart; his children, Natalie (Nicholas) Fine and Jackson Stewart; his brother, Stan (Roxanna) Stewart; nephew Derek Stewart; niece Meghan (JJ Crawford) Stewart; and countless dear friends whose lives he enriched. A hug from Bob was a treasure.

Bob’s memory will be forever cherished by all who knew him. His spirit will continue to inspire athletes, coaches, and friends --reminding us of the power of community, the importance of teamwork, and the enduring strength of family.