Bob was born in Bazine, Kansas on March 30, 1937 to Herman and Florence Schaben. His family was among the early settlers of western Kansas, and Bob was the fourth youngest of 11 children. After graduating from high school, Bob joined the U.S. Navy and was an electronics technician. He lived in Albuquerque after leaving the Navy and worked as an electrical engineer for ACF Industries and EG&G, which were contractors for the Atomic Energy Commission.
Bob moved to Amarillo in 1974 and founded the concrete pumping business Dyna Pump. In 1998, he and his family opened Sakura Japanese Steakhouse. Known around the restaurant as “Uncle Bob” or “Mister Bob,” he could often be seen holding court at the bar. His frank wisdom, trustworthiness and humor made him a father figure to some and a great friend to many.
Bob loved going to Las Vegas and was a regular on the craps tables. He was also known as a builder and fixer of all things and was always willing to lend a hand. To his family, Bob was the “rock” who was always there when needed. He was a source of great strength and confidence. His optimistic spirit and witty sayings were constant – even in his final days. (“If I was any better, I’d be twins!”)
Bob is survived by his wife, Nida; his four children, Maggie Stein and fiancé Joe, Elizabeth Nelson and husband Steve, Darla Kiefer and husband Ken, Scott and wife Hillary; grandsons Robert and Jason; granddaughters Tasha, Kaitlyn, Lexi and Sierra; and great-grandchildren Olivia, Aubree and Jaxson. Bob will also be dearly missed by his puppy Lila.
The family suggests memorial contributions be made to High Plains Food Bank and Advo Companies.
The funeral will be held Tuesday, June 8 at 2 p.m. at First Presbyterian Church, 1100 S. Harrison St. Bob would like the funeral to be a celebration, so the family encourages guests to wear bright colors or their favorite Hawaiian shirts.
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