Robert W. Den Besten

Bob was born on March 9, 1958, in Chicago, Illinois, to Preston Robert and Helen Wilma (DeYoung) Den Besten. He lived in the Chicago area his entire life until retirement, when he and his beloved wife, Deb, chose to start a new chapter together in Oklahoma.

Bob’s perfect day was simple and full of joy: coffee on the patio in the morning, swimming and bowling in the afternoon, and evenings spent watching TV or movies with Deb. He loved life, laughter, and the company of those he cared for most. His favorite color was blue, and he had a special fondness for country music.

Bob married Deb on August 8, 2019, after nearly 20 years together. Their love was deep and unwavering, they truly believed they had found soulmates in one another. Bob treasured time with his family, grandkids, and his many new friends in Oklahoma. He was an active member of Emmaus Baptist Church in Oklahoma City and enjoyed bowling, hockey, and supporting Oklahoma girls’ softball.

He worked faithfully for Republic Services for 32 years and was known for his integrity, warmth, and willingness to live life to the fullest. Bob often shared important wisdom, never take life or each other for granted, and never go to bed angry. He was quick to apologize because, as he believed, relationships matter most in the end.

Bob is survived by his wife, Deb; his mother, Helen; sons Bob Jr. and his spouse Joann, Keith and his spouse Angela, Kevin and his spouse Julie; step-sons Derek and his spouse Dani, Dustin and his spouse Kelly; sisters Judy Pingel and Joyce Tolar and her spouse Larry along with 13 grandchildren shared with Deb. Bob is preceded in death by his father, Preston; brother-in-law, John Pingel; mother-in-law, Frances Curtman, and his beloved fur baby, Cooper, who was always by his side in life and now lovingly by his side once again.

Bob found a full and joyful life in Oklahoma, laughing often and making many friends on his bowling teams. He cherished coffee time with the men from Sunday school and exploring the surrounding areas with friends Mike and Louann Lane. Above all, he was fiercely loved by Deb, who was rarely apart from him.

A heartfelt note from Deb:

“Life has forever changed. I miss your blue eyes and the sound of your voice, the feel of your hand in mine. I miss the safety I felt by your side. I miss how the simplicity of life made us so happy. You were my prince charming, and you alone are my sunshine, my only sunshine. My love for you is eternal, oh how I miss you. Until eternity, forever in love, Deb.”

A memorial service will be held at a later date in Chicago.