Robert Eugene Unrau

Robert “Bob” Eugene Unrau, 86, passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 15, 2025, in Des Moines, Iowa.

Bob was born Aug. 29, 1938, in Goessel, Kansas. He was one of four children of Rufus B. and Mathilda (Nikkel) Unrau. He enjoyed farm life, driving a tractor at an early age and, as a teen, working alongside his father to build a family home.

As part of the German Mennonite community and Alexanderwohl Church, his parents instilled in him the importance of volunteering and giving back to his community.

After graduating from Goessel High School, Bob attended Bethel College and graduated from McPherson College with a bachelor’s degree in accounting and business administration.

Although he chose a career away from the farm, his background helped him relate to his customers throughout his 50-year career in financial credit management in the agriculture industry.

Bob moved his family to Des Moines, Iowa, in January of 1970, taking a management role at Great Plains Bag Corp. He loved those years touring the strawberry and lettuce fields of California and the orange groves of Florida, playing golf with customers.

He was known for his ability to relate to people of all backgrounds. His integrity, trustworthiness and non-judgmental acceptance of others allowed him to build relationships with customers that resulted in a high level of success in his work. He retired from Bridgestone/Firestone Inc. in 2011 after receiving top awards in credit management.

Bob had a special ability to connect with others. Whether he was chatting with a gas station attendant on the road, joining strangers to tee off on the golf course, or meeting a caregiver, he found common ground. His genuine interest and warmth, along with his unabashed sense of humor, put others at ease.

Bob was a gregarious guy who always seemed to have a story, and he could recall events, locations, and dates with ease. Conversations were sprinkled with, “Now that reminds me of the time….”

Bob had an abundant energy for work and play. He always had “fun” and exuded a positive attitude and optimism. He shared this optimism as a coach of his kids’ Little League baseball, soccer and hockey teams, working to instill respect for each other and a love of the game.

He was active in sports throughout his life. He enjoyed many years actively playing racquetball, baseball, tennis and his beloved game of golf. An avid golfer, he loved the opportunities to play with his children and grandsons, as well as friends old and new.

Bob worked as his own contractor building his two homes, and that sparked his interest in volunteering in construction. He spent 10 years working with Rebuilding Together of Greater Des Moines, where he also served in leadership roles on home renovation projects for those in need.

Bob had a kind heart, always reaching out with a smile and a willingness to help. Volunteer work though the church was important to him. At Plymouth Church, he particularly enjoyed his work with the Social Action committee, Visiting Ministries, and working with teenagers at the Plymouth Grounds coffee shop.

He loved to travel, and business trips around the country were sure to include a round of golf with clients. Bob was proud to have visited 47 states and loved exploring new places and cultures. He appreciated his visits to Mexico and many countries in Europe. Especially memorable to him was a Mennonite history tour in Germany, Switzerland, the Netherlands, and Austria.

Survivors include his loving wife of 65 years, Karen, and his children, Lawton (Elizabeth) Unrau of Lake City, FL, Lia Unrau (Dean Kassmann) of Bellevue, WA, and Eric (Lori) Unrau of St. Louis, MO. He also leaves six grandchildren, Andrew (Kristen) Unrau, Marlene Unrau, Charles Unrau, Quinn Unrau, Roarke Unrau, and Evan Kassmann; six great-grandchildren, Alex, Aaron, and Marcela Rodriguez, Holly, Wyatt and Beau Unrau; and numerous nieces and nephews and their families. He also left behind a sister, Shirley Unruh of Inman, KS, and brother Glen Unrau of Goessel, KS, who died March 24, just nine days after Bob.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Rufus B. and Mathilda Unrau; brother Rufus Unrau; and daughter, Megan Unrau.

Bob will be remembered not only for his professional achievements, but also for his optimism and strong moral principles that defined his character.

The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to Dr. Amy Hughes and Bob’s care teams at Unity Point Health and EveryStep Hospice for the compassionate care he received.

A celebration of life service will be held on Saturday, April 5, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at Plymouth Church, 4126 Ingersoll Ave. in Des Moines, with a visitation at 1:00 p.m. and a light reception following the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to Plymouth Church, 4126 Ingersoll Ave., or Rebuilding Together of Greater Des Moines, 1111 Ninth St.

Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

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