Robert Baird Sanderson

West Des Moines

Robert Baird Sanderson, 97, died Tuesday, July 29, 2014. As a founding member of the “greatest generation”, Bob was an inspiration to all who knew him. His boundless curiosity and energy amazed his friends and colleagues. Bob's interests were diverse; modern art, Iowa history, writing letters to the editor, an avid reader, financial markets and the internet to name a few. He loved aviation. While working as the CFO of the Des Moines Flying Service, he made transatlantic crossings to Europe in light aircraft. He enjoyed his Scottish heritage and supported educational and community causes there. He was modest but had the courage of a lion.

He was born in Chicago, Illinois on April 9, 1917 at Robert Burns Hospital. His parents, David and Eliza (Baird) Sanderson, were recent immigrants from Scotland. Bob was a first generation American. Following the spring of 1917, the young Sanderson family moved to Des Moines. Bob arrived just as America became involved in WWI. Like many of his generation, he was shaped by his experiences of the Great Depression, prohibition, and WWII.

Bob was industrious and as a young boy he purchased ice and soda pop from the local outlets and sold cold soda from his wagon. He also sold eggs. Years later he played the trumpet in a dance band. He graduated from Roosevelt High School and Drake University. The early lessons of commerce and regional travel served him well as a partner in his own CPA firm. He had a flawless understanding of personal integrity and character. His recounting of these early days was captivating.

On December 27, 1940 Bob married Marjorie Conway. After the war, Bob hung up his Army Air Corps uniform and got to work building a family and his own CPA practice. Bob and Marjorie had four children. The family experienced many summer trips to visit all parts of the country. Their special interest was the annual trip to visit the lakes of northern Minnesota. A loving father and husband, he was particularly proud of his children and their families. They were his greatest achievement. Bob had four grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his wife Marjorie. His children, Robert Sanderson Jr., Julie Walker, Douglas Sanderson and Melanie Rundle all survive him.

Graveside services will be held 10:30 a.m. Saturday, August 2nd at Resthaven Cemetery in West Des Moines, Iowa.

If you wish to make a donation, in the spirit of Bob’s philanthropy, the family suggests giving to a worthwhile cause.