Robert "Bob" Rice

Bob believed that you should live your Faith, work hard, love and support your family, and have fun along the way. This personal philosophy guided his entire life and as such touched all around him. Bob served his country in the U.S. Navy SeaBees in the Philippines and Alaska where he worked heavy construction equipment to build airstrips and base facilities. He translated his native talent for creative problem solving and 'fixing things' to a successful 37 year career as a Millwrights Maintenance Foreman at Texaco refineries in Amarillo, Texas and Convent, Louisiana.

Bob shared his faith, drive, and skills in the establishment and construction of the St. James Lutheran Church in Gonzales. As a founding member of the church, Bob selflessly gave of himself, his time, and his project management skills. Throughout his life, Bob remained supremely proud of the church, its ministry, and especially its fellowship.

Bob loved his wife and children and absolutely adored his grandchildren and great grandchildren. He believed his family was a blessing in his life and his grand and great grand children were a gift to be treasured and spoiled. He is preceded in death by his wife, Sharon Rice. He is survived by his daughter, Linda Rice-Naas and husband, David; son Chris Rice and wife, Lynn; grandchildren, Cheryl Moreau and husband, Stephen, Jeffrey Naas and wife, Michelle, Cameron Naas and wife, April, Tyler Rice and wife, Sarah, Brady Rice; and 5 great-grandchildren.

Our family wishes to also extend sincere gratitude to the nurses, doctors, and staff of Our Lady of the Lake Hospital, Feliciana Home Health South, and Home Instead. Your care and compassion was a blessing to our father and our family.

A celebration of a life well lived will be held at 11:00 am Saturday, November 3rd at St. James Lutheran Church 1415 E. Highway 30, Gonzales, Louisiana. A potluck will follow in the church fellowship hall. Bob loved life, church potlucks, playing blackjack at the casino, and wanted us all to remember his life with fondness and happiness for him as he goes to his heavenly home. Please come to the service dressed in clothes that would make him happy: such as your favorite LSU t-shirt, a Hawaiian shirt, a comfortable golf shirt, a New Orleans Saints jersey, a western shirt, or a beautiful Easter dress. Only wear black if you are a ninja.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Bob's honor to St. James Lutheran Church of Gonzales.

To offer condolences to the family, please visit www.oursofh.com. Ourso Funeral Home of Gonzales is in charge of arrangements.