Robb "Rollie" D. McAdam
April 25, 2012
Robb “Rollie” D. McAdam, 57, passed unexpectedly Wednesday, April 25, 2012, at his home. He was born December 6, 1954, in Des Moines, to Ray and Jeanne (Heisey) McAdam.
Robb graduated in 1973 from Tech High School, where he was on the swim team and football team. His summers were spent as a lifeguard, working for his father at Teachout swimming pool in Des Moines. Robb’s passion was EMS. His career in EMS began in his early teens, when he cleaned and stocked ambulances for Mr. Bob Hutt at Capital City Ambulance. He was a 1982 graduate of the first paramedic class at Mercy Medical Center.
He went on to work as a paramedic for his dear friend, Jay Shaff, owner of LifeLine Ambulance. From there, he was able to fulfill his lifelong dream of owning his own ambulance company, Capitol City Ambulance, from 1998 to 2000. In 2001, he changed careers, somewhat, becoming an emergency dispatcher for LifeFlight. After retiring in 2006, Robb delivered meals on wheels for Wesley Retirement Services.
Robb was best known for his sense of humor and his huge heart. The compassion and care he provided to his patients was second to none. In addition to being an outstanding paramedic, he was a loving son, husband, father, papa, brother and friend. One of his proudest moments was seeing his daughter, Tiffany, become an RN, following in his footsteps of providing patient care. His granddaughter, Kayleah, was the light of his life, and he spent many hours judging her gymnastic routines and playing “store” with her.
Robb is survived by his wife of 18 years, Elizabeth; daughter, Tiffany (Tim) Hostetter; granddaughter, Kayleah Hostetter; former wife & dear friend, Stephanie McAdam; mother, Jeanne McAdam Hoffman; brother, Scott (Nancy) McAdam; sister, Darcy (Jeff) Potter; nephews, John Potter, Sgt. Scott (Mizuki) McAdam, Jr., and Drew (Kayla Russell) McAdam; nieces, Taryn McAdam and Tamera (Jeffrey) Bonczynski; great-nephew, Parker McAdam; his loving dogs, Lily and Gracie; and a host of extended family and beloved friends. He was preceded in death by his father, Ray McAdam, Jr.; step-father, Lt. C. Delbert Hoffman; and stepson, Jeremy Harden.
Funeral services will be held 1:30 p.m., Saturday, April 28, 2012, at Hamilton’s Funeral Home, 605 Lyon Street. A graveside service will be held at 5:30 p.m. Saturday, at Brethren Cemetery in Panora. Visitation will be held from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Animal Rescue League.
Online condolences may be expressed at:
www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com
Susan Saunders and Ken Saunders
04/27/2012
It is with a great deal of sadness we send our condolences to the family of Robb "Rollie" McAdam.
It was in the late 70's/early 80's we had the opportunity to experience Rollie's amazing personality and friendship through his EMS work. Always a smile and a story to bring happiness to one's day. Truly
an inspiration to those who
met him and for EMS in Central
Iowa. We'll miss you!
Jeff Dumermuth
04/27/2012
Rollie was a true icon for EMS in Central Iowa. Thanks for paving the way Rollie, may you rest in peace.
Amy Burton
04/27/2012
Throughout my career in EMS, Rollie has always been there... He will be sorely missed.
My prayers go out to his family.
Jeff Howard
04/26/2012
Thoughts and prayers to Rollies family, I am honored to have been one of Rollies partners back in the mid 80's at Lifeline. Rollie is an icon in the history of EMS in the Des Moines area. I remember meeting Rollie for the first time back in 1979 at Mercy. My heart is heavy....RIP Rollie, may GOD bless your soul!
Ellen McCardle Woods
04/26/2012
Rollies family, what a great man he was. He did so much for EMS, he was the beginning. I know he never met a stranger. Thanks for the memories Rollie...
Karen Vaske (Vannatta)
04/26/2012
I am so sorry to hear of Rob's passing. I remember him dressing up as Santa one year and coming to see Steve and I at our house. He and my dad were very close and he will be missed.