Robert Kenneth Best

Robert “Bob” Kenneth Best, a cherished father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully at his home in Bryan, Tx, surrounded by family after enjoying a Friday night football game. Born on April 15, 1930, in Franklin, Tx, Bob lived a full & vibrant life that spanned 96 years, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, compassion, unforgettable memories and a strong faith in God.

The son of of Robert M. Best and Mittie McNutt Best, Bob was raised on a working farm, where he developed a lifelong appreciation for nature and a love of animals, which he shared with others. This rural upbringing instilled in him a strong work ethic and a passion for the outdoors, carried throughout his life. Bob’s life was marked by the joy of family and the challenges of farm life, experiences that shaped his character and fueled his adventurous spirit.

After graduating from Franklin High School in 1948, Bob enlisted into the United States Air Force. He served his country with honor, stationed on the Aleutian Islands in Anchorage, Alaska during the Korean war, before transferring to Roswell, NM, until his discharge in 1954. During his service, he contributed to our Nations defense by working at NAS-CC Naval Air Station in Corpus Christi, wiring military airplanes.

Bob pursued higher education at Texas A&M University, where he earned a degree in Industrial Engineering in 1959. His professional journey began with IBM in Houston, Tx where he worked as a Computer Technician, moving to Bryan in 1980. Over a career spanning 31 years, Bob’s dedication and expertise led to a successful tenure, retiring in 1990 after achieving numerous accomplishments and contributions to his community. So much so, the Mayor of Bryan proclaimed June 1st, 1990 as Robert K. Best day.

In June 1953, Bob married the love of his life, Wanda “Tooker” Louise Williams, embarking on a marriage that lasted 44 years. Together, they created a loving home, filled with laughter and joy, raising three children: Dawn, Keren and Mark. Though Wanda passed away in 1997, Bob’s devotion to her was unwavering, as he chose to honor their love by never remarrying the 29 years that followed.

Bob was a man of many talents and passions. Known for his quick wit and warm smile, he had an uncanny ability to make everyone feel welcomed and valued. His sense of humor was legendary, the “Master of Boobytraps,” often pulling pranks (from a stuffed man in the deer stand to snakes in a jar or a toy rat on the BBQ Pit) to keep those around him on their toes and lighten the mood. Bob loved the outdoors, loved fishing /hunting and was always eager to share his knowledge with others, no matter the subject. His skills in woodworking were remarkable, crafting furniture and other items that his family cherishes to this day. He loved gardening, could grow anything and always shared with anyone interested or in need of fresh vegetables or fruit.

Active in his community, Bob was a proud member of Northview Baptist Church of Bryan Tx. His strong faith and generosity extended beyond his home and congregation, touching countless lives through acts of kindness and support. He always had a special prayer to say at meals and reminded us of stories from the Bible for our everyday life.

Bob is survived by his daughters, Dawn Best, Keren George; his son, Mark Best (Helen); his grandchildren Melissa Guest (James), Denise Schiller (Kurt) and Dylan Best as well as his great-grandchildren Kai, Jasper, and Loma Guest, Kayla and Annabel Schiller and Isla Best. He also leaves behind his beloved sister Carole Daugherty and numerous nieces/nephews and extended family members. Bob was preceded in death by his wife Wanda, his parents, two brothers, three sisters and many treasured family members.

In honoring Bob’s memory, the family requests that donations be made to Still Creek Ranch, Brazos Valley Hospice or Brazos Valley Food Bank in lieu of flowers. Robert Kenneth Best’s life was a testament to love, faith, resilience and the joy of family. He will be deeply missed by all that knew him and looked up to him, but his spirit will live on in the hearts of those he touched.