Robert Stripling

Dr. Robert Stripling, Jr.’s 70 years on this earth came to a peaceful close on October 28, 2010 at Co-venant Hospital in Lubbock. Ro-bert was born on May 19, 1940 in Big Spring, Tx. to Robert and Jean Stripling. He grew up in Big Spring and graduated from High School in 1958. He completed his under-graduate studies at Southern Methodist University in Dallas, later graduating from Kansas Medical School in Lawrence, Ks. On June 18, 1966, two weeks after graduat-ing med school, he married Karen Klinger in Ashland, KS. In 1972, after finishing residency he moved his family to Lubbock where he began his practice. He and Karen enjoyed raising their two children, traveling and being active partici-pants in the community. Sadly, Karen developed a disease that would prematurely claim her life and end their happy marriage of 38 years.

Robert followed in the footsteps of his parents and dedicated his life to serving others. He was a lifelong member of the First United Meth-odist Church; he served in the U.S. Army; volunteered for the United Way; served on the board of the LSO; was affiliated with countless other organizations; and was a devout supporter of the arts and continuing education.

In 1998 Robert met the love of his life, Melissa Rodriguez. She put a sparkle back in his eye and re-newed his youth. They were mar-ried on March 5, 2006 in Lubbock. He now had two “bonus children” and a wife to dance with and sup-port him in life. The two were hap-pily married and virtually insepara-ble until the day of his death.

Robert was a greatly admired pe-diatrician who loved life. He en-joyed spending time with his family and entertaining guest. His hob-bies included dancing, playing the piano, traveling, music and going on walks. He felt very lucky to be able to help so many people through his work. Every patient was special to him. Three genera-tions of West Texans received treatment from him. Many families who could not afford treatment were served without charge, includ-ing the cost of medicine where needed. He thought he had the best staff in the world and appreci-ated all of his colleagues. He loved both his family and community and served both unconditionally and wholeheartedly.

He is survived by his wife Melissa; his children, son, Dr. Stephen Stripling, and his wife Tiffany; grandson Harris; daughter, Stacy Stripling; two bo Joe Ryan and Christian T.H. Logou. Robert adored both his wives and all of his children and desired the best for them.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, October 31, 2010 from 10:00 am -6:00 pm at Resthaven Funeral Home. Graveside services will be held on Monday, November 1, 2010 at 11:30 am at Resthaven Memorial Park with a memorial service to follow at First United Methodist Church at 1:00 Pm.

Those interested in supporting Dr. Stripling’s love and passion for young musicians should send do-nations to any of the following or-ganizations: the Lubbock Youth Symphony Orchestra c/o the Lub-bock Symphony Orchestra, the Stripling Vocal Award c/o the TTU School of Music, the Texas Tech String Project c/o the TTU School of Music, the South Plains Suzuki Foundation or the West Texas Children’s Chorus.

Condolences may be offered at www.resthavenfuneralhome.com

Arrangements under the direction of Resthaven Funeral Home & Cemetery, Lubbock, TX.