Robert “Bob” Gale Bantz, age 85, passed away surrounded by family on Friday, March 24, 2023 at his home in Osceola.

Bob was born on November 29, 1937 to Franklin and Maxine (Kelly) Bantz in Vinton, Iowa.

He grew up and graduated in the class of 1956. In May of 1956, right after high school, Bob joined the United States Air force and was honorably discharged in March of 1960. While Bob was at the base in Osceola, he met his future wife, Irene Demulling. In April of 1958, they were united in marriage. This marriage was blessed with 6 children. Bob started working while in high school at a gas station. After the service, he worked as a cop for 3 years, built silos for another year, worked on the farm he bought and retired from the body shop he owned.

Bob enjoyed hunting, fishing, mushrooming, mowing the grass, fixing cars and working at the A.R.C. He especially enjoyed the time spent with his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He will be dearly missed by many.

Bob is survived by his children, Gale (Sheila Koch), Debbie (Roy) White, Robert (Peggy Leisch), Lori (Chuck) Koller and Dan (Allison) Bantz; 18 grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren; many nieces, nephews and other relatives.

Bob is preceded in death by his parents, Franklin and Maxine; father and mother-in-law, Warren (Ella) Demulling; wife, Irene; daughter, Becky; grandson, Roy White; sisters, Shirley, Bette and Laura; brother, Jack; brother-in-law, Marvin and sister-in-law, Helen.

Last Update: Mar 27, 2023 12:39 pm CDT