Robert Phillips, 85, passed away on April 3, 2023, at Mercy hospital surrounded by his family. As per his request, a burial of cremated remains will take place at the Iowa Veterans Cemetery on April 20th at 9:30am, followed by a gathering of family and friends at the VFW Reception Center in Van Meter, Iowa.
Robert was born on August 11, 1937, to Chester and Katherine (Raible) Phillips in Oskaloosa, Iowa. Robert graduated from the Oskaloosa High School with the Class of 1955. Robert attended the Iowa State Teachers College (UNI) for 1 year beginning in the Fall of 1955. Robert joined the Air Force on July 9, 1956, and served in Riverside, California. Robert received an honorable discharge on July 8, 1960. Robert was united in marriage to Mary Antoinette Collins on June 23, 1962. They were later divorced. Robert graduated from Drake University on June 1, 1969, with a Bachelor Degree in Business Administration.
On March 23, 1978, he was granted a certificate as a Certified Public Accountant from the
State of Iowa. Robert was employed as an accountant by the Iowa Power and Light company and retired after 25 years of service. Bob was so loved by his family and will be remembered as an exceptional Son, Brother, and Uncle. Always witty and so generous, maintaining an amazing sense of humor to the end. His hobbies included fishing and carpentry. In later years he enjoyed fine woodworking in his workshop creating a beautiful rolltop desk and clothing chests. These items will be cherished now by his family.
Robert is preceded in death by his parents Chester and Katherine (Raible) Phillips.
Robert is survived by his brother, John Phillips, Des Moines; nephews, Steven (Rhonda) Phillips, Williamsburg and John Lee (Brook) Phillips, Gilbert, Arizona; and many great and great-great nieces and nephews.
Memorial contributions for Robert Phillips can be addressed to his family for later distributions.
