Robert Ullom, 72

Nov. 13, 1951 - 

Dec. 17, 2023

 

CHESTER - Robert ‘Bob’ P. Ullom was born Nov. 13, 1951 in Spring Valley, Minn., to Percy and Winnifred (Cray) Ullom. Bob passed away peacefully at home with his best friend holding his hand on Dec. 17, 2023.

Bob attended school in Chester, Iowa and graduated from Crestwood High School in 1969. That is where Bob met the love of his life, Becky Rathert. After high school, Bob started farming with his dad and retired over 40 years later in 2016. Bob and Becky were united in marriage on Nov. 25, 1971 and made their home in Chester, Iowa. Bob and Becky had two daughters; Tracy and Amy.

Bob was a member of the Chester Jaycees, Chester Community Center Board, the Howard County Conservation Board and served as co-president of the Upper Iowa Pheasants Forever. Bob also played shortstop on many Chester softball teams.

Bob had six loves, family, farming, football, fishing, hunting and conservation. He lived outdoors and only came inside to sleep. He worked and played in all kinds of weather and the land meant everything to him. He never took from it without giving back. He dug ponds, planted trees, stocked fish, provided cover and fed wildlife all year long. He passed on these practices to his family as well as showing them how to enjoy it over the years. His family jokingly call him the ‘Bobfather’ because he always kept a watchful eye over his land and his family. You would often see Bob driving around the section past all of his family's homes or slowly driving down the shoulder of the road looking for wildlife and snacking on licorice, peanuts, Cheetos and diet mountain dew. Bob's quick wit, not so subtle sarcasm and silent chuckle will be dearly missed by everyone who knew him.

Bob is survived by his wife, Becky, of 52 years, his daughter, Tracy Rice and his very special son-in-law, Brian Rice and their children: Taylor Panoch (Adam), Jordan Rice (Tayler Watson) and daughter Amy Henry (Rob Trende) and her children Tanner Henry, Skylar Henry and Talon Henry. He is also survived by one brother, Rick Ullom (Jane) and many special nephews, nieces, cousins and friends.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents Percy and Winnifred Ullom.

A Celebration of Bob’s life will be held on Jan. 27, 2024 at the Chester Community Center with a service at 11 a.m. and a meal following.