Robert "Hawkeye Bob" Butcher

Robert (Bob) Butcher, 85, of Des Moines, Iowa, passed away peacefully on September 29th after a courageous journey with Alzheimer’s disease.

Bob was born June 4, 1940, in Des Moines, Iowa, to the late Raymond Butcher and Margaret (Tidmarsh) Lawton. After graduating from Lincoln High School, he proudly served in the United States Air Force, enlisting in 1958. Following his military service, Bob returned to central Iowa, where he dedicated his life to raising his family.

Throughout his career, Bob worked for Donnelly Marketing in Nevada, Iowa, and later with the U.S. Postal Service, retiring in 2002. Known for his strong work ethic and reliability, he built lasting friendships through his professional life.

Bob had a deep love for sports and was happiest when surrounded by family at games and community events. He enjoyed playing in bowling leagues and slow-pitch softball teams, and especially treasured cheering on his children and grandchildren. Most often, he could be found watching his beloved Iowa Hawkeyes, proudly wearing black and gold. His loyal team spirit earned him the nickname “Hawkeye Bob,” a name fondly remembered by many.

Bob’s greatest joy was his family. He is survived by his daughters: Dyanna Butcher of Missouri; Marissa (Mike) Greenleaf of Ankeny; and Stacy Koeneke (Terence Flynn) of Ankeny. He is also lovingly remembered by his sister, Linda (Dan) Storms of Des Moines; two granddaughters; two great-grandchildren; three nieces; and one nephew.

He was preceded in death by his father, Raymond Butcher (Dorothy); his mother, Margaret Lawton (Carl); and other cherished family members.

A celebration of life to honor Bob’s life will be held at Merle Hay Funeral Home Chapel on Friday, October 3^rd at 1:30 PM. Family and friends are warmly invited to gather, share memories, and celebrate a life well lived.  Inurnment with be in the Chapel Hill Gardens Cemetery with Military Honors by the Air Force.