Bobby Clarkson

Col. Bobby Clarkson, 78, passed away at Mercy Hospital on May, 28th. Bobby was a force of nature to be reckoned with. He was always the life of the party and a wonderful storyteller. He had an amazing group of lifelong friends that came from every facet of life. He was a loyal and funny man that was loved by many.

Bobby was raised in Indianola in a large and loving home. After graduation, he enlisted in the Marine Corp and was stationed at Camp Pendleton. He was an immensely proud Marine and was a lifelong member of the Marine Corp League.

After his enlistment, he returned to Des Moines to become one of the best Union Painters around. He worked for Color, Inc. for many years. He had a strong work ethic and loved what he did for a living. He was a member of the International Union Painters and Allied Trades, Local #246 for over 50 years. He was so proud of the accomplishments of the Union that he donated the American flag and flag pole that flies in front of the Union headquarters.

It was on a blind date that he met his future wife, Linda Chesnut, or “Lovely Linda” as he liked to call her. They were married 49 years at the time of his death. They enjoyed camping, going to bowling tournaments and spending time with their grandchildren. The biggest love of his life however was his dog, Maxie. He swore that she understood everything he said.

Bobby was an avid bowler and loved the time that he spent on a team with his son Travis. They bowled on the same league for over 24 years. He even used the same bowling ball since 1965 but that wouldn't surprise anyone who really knew him.

The Colonel loved hanging out with his buddies and family. Everyone played pool with Bobby at his “Copper Rail Lounge” at the house. He kept track of every game and loved to brag about how many times he beat his cousin Greg Bowlin. He did beat about everyone he played.

He was a lifetime Kansas City Chief fan and we are so grateful that he got to see them win the last Superbowl. People would think that he had a large group of people over because it was so loud, but it was just Bobby cheering for his beloved Chiefs. After retirement, Bobby loved to take his Cadillac Allante to classic car shows throughout the Midwest. He won over 70 shows and loved to show off all his trophies. He truly enjoyed his time with his friend John McClain at the car shows.

He genuinely enjoyed his life, family, and friends. A celebration of his life will be held at a later date –and it will be a party as he requested. Condolences can be sent to www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

Bobby is survived by his wife Linda, sons Travis (Kate Anderson) and Val Alksnis (Yevette), daughters Lori Clarkson and Valerie Alksnis (Brian Wolfkill). Grandchildren include Kennedy Birbarah (Patrick), Alec and Brent Alksnis, Bryan Clarkson, Zach and Avery Wolfkill. Great Grandchildren are Gracie Birbarah and Gavin Alksnis. He is also survived by his sister Donna Pierce (Bob) and brother Gabe Bowlin (Beverly).

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