Nelson, Robert L. 'Bob'

Robert L. "Bob" Nelson, 61, of North Liberty, died Sunday, July 26, 2009, at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in Iowa City.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m., Saturday, August 1, 2009, at Gay & Ciha Funeral and Cremation Service in Iowa City. Burial with Military Honors will be held at Memory Gardens Cemetery in Iowa City. Visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m. Friday at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established in Bob's memory. Online condolences may be sent for his family through the Web at www.gayandciha.com

Robert Lee Nelson was born August 8, 1947, in Washington, the son of Roy Ivan and Irene Mae (Carriker) Nelson. He attended schools in Washington before enlisting in the United States Army during Vietnam. While serving his country he received two purple hearts from injuries sustained in the line of duty. On July 27, 1974, Bob married Beverly Gail Estes at the First Baptist Church in Washington. For over 30 years Bob was employed at the Department of Veterans Affairs Hospital in Iowa City, retiring in August of 2000. He was a member of the American Legion and the Am Vets. Bob enjoyed the outdoors, hunting, fishing and camping. He loved to work on small engines, going to the casino, caring for his pets and being around his family and friends. For a number of years he and Bev were foster parents to children in need.

His family includes his wife, Beverly; his ever faithful, Missy; sister, Patricia Westen Edwards of Coralville; brother, Charles J. Nelson of Fredonia; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Alice in infancy; and brother, James I. Nelson; and faithful companions, Sparky, Buffy and others.

Gay & Ciha Funeral and Cremation Service is caring for Bob's family and his services.