Lavoine "Bobe" Kohlbusch

Lavoine “Bobe” Ellis Kohlbusch, age 90, passed away at his home in Des Moines on Sunday, June 25, 2023.

Lavoine was born June 1, 1933, in Wynot, Nebraska to Albert Alvin Kohlbusch and Marjorie Josephine (Nelson) Kohlbusch.

He graduated from East High School in Des Moines, where he was inducted into the East High School Hall of Fame for his performance in track events. Bobe proudly served in the United States Army.

He married Ila Mae (Brown) Kohlbusch, and they had one daughter, Tina Kohlbusch Coleman. Bobe was employed as a barber at Bond’s Barber Shop for 44 years, retiring at age 62. He was very meticulous and took great pride in caring for his yard, often making his lawn look as good as his haircuts.

Bobe was an avid jogger during his younger years, running many marathons. He enjoyed spending time in nature and golfing. Bobe appreciated classic cars, and was a sports fan, especially football and NASCAR, with his favorite driver being Jeff Gordon. He liked taking road trips and going out to eat at La Pizza House on the Southside of Des Moines.

Bobe was a very loyal and honest man. He was a provider by nature and he helped everyone. He went to every funeral of people he knew, often calling the families afterward to make sure they were taken care of. He loved spending time with his family and friends, and he knew everyone in town.

He is survived by his loving wife, Ila; daughter, Tina Kohlbusch Coleman; granddaughter, Ilana Coleman; sisters, Darlene Randolph, Luanne Clark, and Carolyn Kohlbusch; and many extended family and countless friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Albert and Marjorie Kohlbusch; his dog, Percy, his cat, Whitey, and his grandpup, Rizzo.

Bobe will be interred at Iowa Veterans Cemetery.

Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

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