Robert (Bob) Tonelli

DES MOINES - Robert (Bob) Tonelli, 77, died on March 6, 2021 peacefully at home. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 51 years, Carolyn. He is survived by son Victor, daughter-in-law Darcie Vandegrift, family Melissa and Kim Curran-Moore, grandkids Ann, Risa, Eli, and Sophia and special friend (“penpal”) Earline Sykes. Bob grew up in Santa Rosa, California and served the country in the U.S. Army as a career, working in three countries and living in 12 states. A political junkie and solid public speaker, he was regional manager for Ross Perot’s 1996 campaign and ran local campaigns in Reno, Nevada. A lifelong learner and history buff, he read hundreds of pages most weeks. He was proud to be an American. Traveling, cribbage, good meals with family, oldies music, and helping others were favorite things. A generous family man, Bob made a difference in his kids' and grandkids’ lives through deeds, love, and advice. He was well-loved and is much missed.

Print