* The family requests that attendees dress casual / comfortable.
Robert Melby, known affectionately as Bob, was born in Sioux City, Iowa on June 12, 1963, to Duane and Myrna (Cline) Melby of Dunlap, Iowa. Bob attended the Dunlap Community Schools and graduated with the class of 1982. After graduating high school, Bob worked at various jobs in the area including Leaders Salvage, Krajicek’s Inc., Diamond F Transportation, Farmland Foods, and for the last 15 years he worked at Farm Service Coop in Denison, Iowa. Bob was a dedicated employee and was always making sure the job was done right.
On September 2nd, 1989, Bob was united in marriage to Sharon Bengford of Deloit, Iowa. To this union, they were blessed with three boys: Tyler, Dillon, and Cody, who later gave them precious grandchildren whom Bob loved dearly. After living in Denison for 20 years, they made their home on an acreage outside of Arion, Iowa, where it’s known for his accumulation of various odds and ends. Robert had a special talent for finding beauty in every day, living by the motto “One man’s junk is another man’s treasure.” His home on the acreage was a testament to this, filled with collected treasures and memories.
Bob was a smart man and would humorously say “Don’t tell me”. He was one of a kind, marching to the beat of his own drum. His unique way of doing things added to his charm, reflecting his special personality. Bob’s sense of humor always brought smiles to people’s faces. He was like a spark of joy, brightening everyday moments with laughter. In addition to his knack for spreading laughter, Bob’s willingness to lend a hand without hesitation made him a true friend to all. Bob’s kindness and unforgettable spirit will always be remembered.
Bob was preceded in death by his parents; Duane and Myrna Melby; his mother and father-in-law Raymond and Shirley Bengford. Bob passed away with a fighting spirit to cancer, surrounded by his family on Saturday, April 27th, 2024, at the Crawford County Memorial Hospital in Denison, Iowa, at the age of 60. Though Bob may no longer be with us, let us celebrate his life as his spirit lives on in the countless lives he touched and the memories he created. Bob will be greatly missed, not only by his many friends, acquaintances, and colleagues - but especially his family including his wife Sharon Melby of Arion, IA; his sons: Tyler Braasch (Samantha) of Deloit, IA; Dillon Melby of Arion, IA; Cody Melby (Ben Levy) of Los Angeles, CA; grandchildren: Nevaeh, Chase, and Vera; siblings: William Melby of Dunlap, IA; Susie Melby of Boxholm, IA; Pat (Betty) Melby of Dunlap, IA; Jodie (Marty) Heffernan of Webster City, IA; Kelly Melby of Omaha, NE; Shelly Melby of Richmond, VA; in-laws: Cathy Fink of Denison, IA; Rodney (Lisa) Bengford of Harlan, IA; Debbie (Todd) Brotherson of Denison, IA; Alan Bengford of Denison, IA; and Cindy (Alan) Ahart of Denison, IA; other relatives and friends.
Rest easy, Bob. Your light will continue to shine bright in our hearts forever. We love you.