Robert graduated from Chetopa High School in 1959 and enlisted in the U.S. Navy. He married Velma Joyce Mickan on December 30, 1961. He worked for Reynolds Metal Company for 37 years until his retirement. Robert loved children and after his retirement he worked for the school district as a crossing guard. He was a member of Galilean Lutheran Church. He enjoyed fishing, crafting and travel , and also had a passion for watching Western movies.
Robert is preceded in death by his parents, Tom and Ruby Rice; brothers, Larry Rice and Tom Rice; and sisters, Judy Rice and Susan Rice.
He is survived by his loving wife of 64 years, Velma Joyce Rice; children, Robert Lee Rice, Jr., and Randy Allen Rice; grandchildren, Corey Allen Rice, Allyssa Michelle Rice, and Jessica Lea Cooper; and great- grandchild, Everett Cooper.
Serving as pallbearers are Jason Thomas, Justin Thomas, Jimmy Thomas, Ronnie Mickan, Roger Mickan and Ricky Mickan.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Robert's name to Driscoll Children's Hospital at
https://donate.driscollchildrens.org
A visitation for Bob will be held Tuesday, July 15, 2025 from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Memory Gardens Funeral Home, 8200 Old Brownsville Road, Corpus Christi, Texas 78415. A funeral service will occur Tuesday, July 15, 2025 at 2:00 PM at Memory Gardens Funeral Home. An entombment will occur Tuesday, July 15, 2025 at 3:00 PM at Memory Gardens Mausoleum.
