Robert Edward Lentz

Robert Edward “Bob” Lentz, 87 years of age, died August 12, 2014 at Baptist Hospital following a stroke. Funeral services will be held August 15, 11:00a.m., 2014 at Meadowbrook Church of Christ. Visitation will be at Wright & Ferguson Parkway Aug. 14, 2014 from 6:00 to 8:00p.m.

Bob was born to the late Henry and Vera Lentz of Paragould, AR. He was preceded in death by his parents and sister, June Lentz. Survivors include his faithful and loving wife, Marie, of 60 glorious years; his wonderful children, Terry Marie Lentz (Paul) DeHoff and Robert E. “Eddie” (Pam) Lentz, Jr.; foru precious grandchildren, Michael, Ryan, Kevin, and Mark DeHoff; sisters, June Barton, Margie Lentz, and Amogia Brunzo; brother, Gary Lentz; sister-in-laws, Edna Washam, Elizabeth Gadberry, Bo McElroy; and several nieces and nephews.

Bob was a member of Meadowbrook Church of Christ. He served as an Elder for 23 years, associate minister for 8 years and taught adult bible classes for many years.

As a good Marine would say, “Semper Fi, Forever Faithful,” Bob was truly faithful to God and his Church. His service to his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ was ever present in his life. Bob was a kind and gentle man, sincere friend, and mentor to many people. He gave of himself to everyone. He was admired and respected among the young people at church. When his daughter and son to teenagers and youth rips were planned, they would always ask for MR. Bob and Marie to b their chaperons.

Bob was a fantastic Granddaddy. He catered to those grandchildren’s needs. He had a special relationship with each of them. He would say “Lover your Lord and serve Him well and one day, I’ll see you in Heaven and we’ll gather around that great beach in Heaven and I’ll read you ‘The Little Red Ball Book.’” Bob was always watching with pride and joy at the growth and achievements of his wonderful grandchildren.

Bob’s love for Marie was never ending. God blessed them with 60 beautiful years of marriage. They always put God first in their lives, so the journey was beautiful.

Bob loved his daughter, Terry, and son, Eddie, dearly. They brought so much happiness into his life. He was always there for them and the wonderful camping trips they shared in Canada, Florida, Smoky Mountains, and many more adventuresome trips. The joy each shard was backpacking in the Appalachian Mountains and precious memories to cherish. He was a wonderful Daddy.

Following the attack on Pearl Harbor and America’s entry into WWII, Bob convinces his parents to permit him to join the United States Marine Corp at the age of 15, mainly because he loved their “Dress Blues.” He served gallantly throughout the war in the Pacific Theater in various Marine units, including a rifle company, amphibious tank unit, intelligence unit, and Marine aviation as a gunner on a torpedo dive bomber. After the war, Bob continued to serve as a Reserve marine in an artillery unit until called into active duty for the Korean Conflict. Although Bob retired from the Marine Corp as a Captain in 1962, he always remained faithful to his Country and to the Corp.

Upon returning home from WWII, Bob entered Arkansas State College and earned his degree in business and his Masters in management at Memphis State. He was a high school coach for four years coaching both boys and girls basketball, baseball, and track. While coaching at Lake City High School, he found the love of his life on the basketball court. They married May 15, 1954. They quickly realized two couldn’t live on a coach’s salary. Bob began his career in insurance adjusting and later became Claims Manager for Allstate Insurance Company in Arkansas, Florida, Tennessee, Oklahoma, and Texas. He retired with Allstate after 32 years.

In lieu of flowers, memorial may be made to Meadowbrook Church of Christ Benevolent Fund.

Bob served his Lord well while on this Earth and was ready to meet his Heavenly Father. The Lord said, “Well done my good and faithful servant. You have been faithful on handling this small amount, so now I will give you more responsibilities.”

-Let’s Celebrate Together-