Robert Roland "Bob" Plath Obituary

Robert (Bob) Roland Plath, age 84, passed away in his sleep at Lutheran Hospital in Des Moines, IA, on 12/19/2018, surrounded by his loving family. Services will be held 1 p.m. Friday, December 21, at Windsor Heights Lutheran Church (1240 66th Street, Windsor Heights, IA 50324). Private burial will be at Resthaven Cemetery in West Des Moines

Bob was born June 28, 1934, in Sioux City, IA, to Norman and Bernice “Bunny” (Sharp) Plath. He grew up in Anamosa, IA with his brother Thomas (Tom). Bob graduated from Anamosa High School in 1953. Bob served in the Army in the infantry. After his return, he married his high school sweetheart, Beverly (Bev) Marlene Ortgies, and they moved to Des Moines where they raised their two children.

Bob was a volunteer firefighter for many years. He worked for North Western Bell (AT&T) and set up 911 for the State of Iowa. Upon his retirement, Bob became the Federal Emergency Management Agency Director for Polk County, IA. He volunteered for many years at Lutheran Hospital as a patient escort.

Bob loved to golf, be with his friends and family, but above all, Bob showed his undying love for Bev as she struggled through the last 7 years of her life fighting Alzheimer’s. Bob never missed a day by Bev’s side. Now they are side by side once again.

Bob is survived by his children Brian (Patti) Plath of West Des Moines and Tawni (Scott Rubin) Plath of Dexter, IA; his grandchildren, Seth Baker, Jacob Plath, Sara Rubin, Jackson Plath, and his great-grandson, Devin Baker. He now rests in peace with his loving wife, parents, other family members, and many, many friends. He will be cherished and missed by all.

Bob was preceded in death by his lovely wife of 58 years, Beverly Plath, his brother, Tom Plath, and his parents.

The family will receive friends from 5 - 7 p.m. Thursday, December 20, at Iles-Westover Chapel. Memorial contributions may be made to Windsor Heights Lutheran Church as an alternative to flowers. Online condolences will be welcomed at IlesCares.com.

ARRANGEMENTS BY ILES ~ WESTOVER CHAPEL.

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