Lala Jr., Robert 'Robin' J.

Robert “Robin” J. Lala Jr., 59, of Cedar Rapids, died Thursday, Jan. 10, 2013, from a sudden illness. Services: 10:30 a.m. Friday, Jan. 18, 2013, at Murdoch-Linwood Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Cedar Rapids, by Sister Linda Bechen, RSM. Family will greet friends from 4 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 17, at the funeral home. Burial: Sacred Heart Cemetery, Walker.

Survivors include his wife, Anne; his children, Robby Lala, Sarah Lala, Katie (Richard) Jackson and Matthew Lala, all of Cedar Rapids; his father, Robert (Bob) J. Lala Sr. of Fairfax; two brothers, Philip Lala of Cedar Rapids and Eddie (Sue) Lala of Fairfax; many brothers- and sisters-in-law; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Leone (two years ago); and a sister, Carole Ann Lala, at birth.

Robert was born July 23, 1953, the son of Robert and Leone (Boyer) Lala, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. He was raised in Center Point, where he excelled in many sports. He truly loved baseball and the New York Yankees. He had many wonderful memories of his family trips to Minnesota for Yankees games. He had a beautiful voice as many may remember him as “Harold Hill” in the high school musical. He graduated from Coe College, where he continued to play baseball and was member of the Phi Kappa Tau fraternity. The Phi Taus and their families have been lifelong friends. Robert married Anne Dale at Immaculate Conception Church in Cedar Rapids, where he sang in the church choir for many years.

Robin's work took his family to Dallas, Chicago, New Jersey / New York (for 13 years) and back to Iowa. He was proud to be an Iowan. Robin loved spending time with his entire family and was a confidante to many. He loved his work and all the people he worked with at Liberty International Underwriters as senior vice president.

Robin enjoyed watching his children's athletic events over the years and family trips, most recently the annual trips to Chicago. He enjoyed the New York Yankees, golf outings with family and friends, and spending time with his fraternity brothers. He also enjoyed the view from his chair at home while listening to his classical music. He will be truly missed.

The family wishes to thank all at Liberty International Underwriters, especially the New York and Chicago offices for their care, understanding and compassion during this difficult time.

Please sign the online guest book for Robert at www.murdochfuneralhome.com under obituaries.

Published Jan. 13, 2013 in The Gazette