Robert W. Dunlap

West Des Moines

Robert Wallace Dunlap, 87, passed on to be with our Lord on Wednesday, February 24, 2015, at the Methodist Hospital with loved ones at his side. Robert was born on May 18, 1927 in Des Moines, IA, the son of Robert and Margaret Dunlap. Robert grew up in Des Moines, and met his wife, Clara who lived right across the street. They were married on October 23, 1948. Clara preceded Robert one day before their 60th anniversary.

Bob and Clara were great parents and raised five children. Robert leaves behind his son, Robert M. (Lisa) of Dothan, AL and their children, Tami, Nicole and Robert; son, John (Sue) of West Des Moines, and their children, Chris and Cory; son, Douglas (Robin) of Ohio, and their children, Travis, Heather and Daniel; son, Terry (Candy) of the Des Moines area, and their daughters, Mindy and Jolene; daughter, Cindy Smit (John) of Gallatin, TN and their children Greg, Melanie, Brian and Christian. Robert also leaves eight great-grandchildren; brother, Jerry (Dee); and many nieces and nephews who adored their Uncle Bob. He was preceded in death by his parents; and brothers, Frank and Ron; and sister, Mary Ortale.

Bob was an outstanding husband and father, who always put his family first. He served in the Navy during WWII and worked at Rock Island Railroad until his retirement. While working at the railroad he also worked at Look Magazine for over a decade. After retiring from the railroad, Bob worked with West Des Moines Human Services for 21 years and volunteered after leaving full time employment. Additionally, Bob worked athletic events at Drake University for 24 years. At Drake, he was known as the fellow near the media room with a welcoming smile, a blue Bulldog hat and a yellow jacket.

Friends and family can join the Dunlap family for the visitation from 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday at McLaren’s Chapel in West Des Moines. Funeral Mass will be held 10 a.m. Monday, March 2 at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in West Des Moines with burial following at Resthaven Cemetery in West Des Moines.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the West Des Moines Human Services, 139-6th St., P.O. Box 65320, West Des Moines, IA 50265.