Robert Fred "Bob" Von Dach

Robert "Bob" Fred Von Dach, 96, of Boise, died Monday, December 30, 2024.
Robert (Bob) von Dach, born on August 8, 1928, in St. Louis, Missouri, led a remarkable life defined by service, dedication, and love for his family. Raised by his single mother alongside his two younger brothers, Bob's journey began with early independence. He graduated from high school ahead of schedule and enlisted in the military at the age of 16. His first deployment took him to Japan as one of the first occupying forces at the end of World War II.
After returning to the United States, Bob pursued a degree in engineering at the University of Illinois under the GI Bill, graduating with honors. This achievement marked the start of a distinguished career in military intelligence.
In 1955, while stationed in Bamberg, Germany, Bob met Helen Knudsen, a schoolteacher who would become his lifelong partner. Together, they embarked on a life of travel and service, moving frequently to accommodate Bob's specialized intelligence training. His assignments included the Language School in Monterey, California, where he studied Russian, and Columbia University, where he delved into political science and Russian studies alongside future luminaries like Madeleine Albright and Zbigniew Brzezinski.
Bob's career brought him back to Germany for training in Cold War operations, including stints in Oberammergau and Frankfurt. From there, he attended additional training at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, before working with the NSA at Fort Meade, Maryland, to study cryptography.
In 1968, Bob deployed to Vietnam for a year-long mission. Upon his return, he underwent further training in Silver Springs, Virginia, before being assigned to Berlin, Germany. This tour became the highlight of his career as he was selected to join the elite United States Military Liaison Mission (USMLM) in Potsdam. His role involved gathering intelligence on Soviet activities during the height of the Cold War. Over the years, he undertook numerous temporary assignments in hotspots where the Soviet Union had interests, always serving with unwavering commitment.
Bob's final military assignment was at Fort Huachuca, Arizona, where he retired after a long and decorated career. He is one of a very few members of the military that was credited with serving in World War II, Korea, and Vietnam. Following his retirement, he was invited to serve at the Yugoslavian Embassy but opted for a quieter life, earning a master's degree in education and mathematics. He went on to teach math in public schools until his second retirement in the mid 1980's.
Bob loved his military service, but above all he valued his family. He is survived by his children, Holly (Steve), Rob, and Beth (Doug), his grandchildren Caroline (Blake), Drew (Katey), and Erik, and his great-grandchildren Avery and Lucy.
While his professional life was filled with extraordinary achievements, it was his family that brought him the greatest joy.
Bob's legacy is one of service, intelligence, and love-a life lived to its fullest in the pursuit of duty and devotion to those he held dear.
Military Honors and inurnment will be held on Tuesday, January 21, 2025, at 2:00 pm at the Idaho State Veterans Cemetery in Boise, Idaho. Services are under the care of Flahiff Funeral Chapel, Caldwell. (208) 459-0833