Robert R. "Bob" Gilligan

Des Moines

Robert “Bob” R. Gilligan, 82, passed away Sunday, October 31, 2010 at Kavanagh House on 56th. Funeral Services will be held 10:30 a.m. Thursday, November 4, 2010 at McLaren’s Chapel in West Des Moines with interment at Resthaven Cemetery. Visitation with the family will be from 5 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at McLaren’s Chapel.

Bob was born on August 3, 1928 in Chicago, IL the son of Roy Gilligan and Irene Caroline Zimmer. He moved when he was ten years old to Van Meter, IA to his grandparent’s farm. Bob graduated from Van Meter High School, moved to Des Moines and West Des Moines and married Barbara Robison.

He was an avid bowler and golfer and one of his joys was watching his children and grandchildren play softball and other sports. Bob was an avid Hawkeye fan and enjoyed being an outdoorsman, taking care of his yard and flowers. He enjoyed the company of his neighbors, their children and grandchildren. Bob was a caring and compassionate man and loved his kids and grandchildren.

Bob is survived by two sons, Bob William Gilligan of Denver, CO and Brian Lee Gilligan of Des Moines; two daughters, Rebecca (Hossein) Alavi of Urbandale and Jennifer Givens of Waukee; five grandchildren, Jaime, Elizabeth, Connor, Alex, Sydney; one great-granddaughter, Leila; and two sisters, Leilani Wilson of Indiana and JoAnn Page of Minneapolis. He was preceded in death by his wife Barbara on June 13, 2004 and two daughters, Cynthia and Lisa Marie.

The family would like to thank the staff, doctors, nurses and nurses aids at Methodist Hospital downtown and the staff at Kavanagh House on 56th street.

Memorial contributions may be directed to Aldersgate United Methodist Church or Kavanagh House on 56th.