Robert David Fulton

1929 - 2024

Robert (Bob) Fulton died peacefully of natural causes on February 21st 2024. With him in his final days were daughters Susan Fulton of Overland Park, KS, Mary Fulton and her husband Ewart Martens of Minneapolis, MN, and a son, Jack Fulton and his partner Rena Haus of St. Michael, Mn. Bob had the good fortune to see his grandchildren, Ryan Peters, Allison Fulton, Anna Peters, Alita Escalante Fulton and Emilee Fulton over the Christmas holidays.

Bob was born in Waterloo, IA to Lester and Fern Fulton. He was preceded in death by his siblings, Dorothy Mueller, Bill Fulton and Dick Fulton. He attended East HS, UNI (then Iowa State Teachers College) and earned a law degree from the university of Iowa in 1958.

Bob met Rachel Breault of Chicopee Falls, MA at a USO event while serving at Westover AFB. They were married in 1955. They would eventually settle in Waterloo. Rachel passed away in 2015.

Bob was a founding member of a successful law firm in Waterloo and also pursued a career in politics as a Democrat. He was elected to the Iowa House in 1958, the Senate in 1962, and was elected Lt. Governor in 1964 and 1966. While his run for Governor in 1970 was unsuccessful, he did have the privilege and distinction to serve as the 37th Governor of Iowa even if for only two weeks, January 1-14, 1969.

Bob was most proud of the role he played when as Lt. Gov. in 1965, he shepherded through the Senate the bill that ended capital punishment in Iowa. It is a legacy that endures.

Bob spent the last ten years of his life in Minneapolis at Jones Harrison Senior Living. His family is grateful for the care and goodwill that was always provided. We also want to express our gratitude for the medical and Hospice staff at Fairview Southdale Hospital where Bob spent his final days. Their care and compassion were exceptional.

Bob enjoyed entertaining family and friends, in particular indulging his grandchildren. He also enjoyed gardening, golf and loved classical music and opera. With this in mind the family request that in lieu of flowers donations be made to either KHKE 89.5 (iowapublicradio.org) or KSJN 99.5 (yourclassical.org). A private internment service will be held at a later date.