Bob L. Irvin, surrounded by his family and reassured of their love, went to be with his Lord and Savior on Saturday, March 19, at the age of 86.

He was born January 2, 1930, in Fort Smith, Ark., the only child of Charlie and Jessie Irvin. He moved to Springfield, Mo., to attend college. He graduated with a degree in economics from Drury College in 1956.

He met Audree E. Weatherman of Aurora, Mo., in 1961 and the two began dating. The couple married on June 9, 1962, and then brought two daughters into the world -- Angela and Andrea.

Bob loved his family and family life.

He enjoyed helping Audree in the kitchen, preparing meals or the desserts he was fond of, especially Audree's baked custard. He would peel apples and potatoes, crack eggs and stir cookie batter. As he and Audree raised their daughters, he often worked two jobs at once so she could be a stay-at-home mom.

He was a hard and reliable worker. He was a master control operator and did other jobs at KYTV and KOLR television stations in Springfield and worked in public relations for Chase National Life Insurance Company.

Bob believed in the power of education and backed up that belief . He encouraged "the girls" to get their master's degrees and pursue their careers. To that end, he and Audree took care of all three grandchildren when they were babies so they'd never spend a minute in daycare.

Bob took great pride in and truly enjoyed his grandchildren, Alivia, Hunter and Dwight. He urged all three to complete their college studies and follow their passions – agriculture for Hunter and Dwight and teaching children for Alivia. Even though Bob was meticulous about caring for his yard, he let his young grandsons dig holes and scrape around in the dirt and mud with their toy trucks and tractors. He often took Alivia for treats at Andy's Frozen Custard, relishing each outing with his only granddaughter.

Bob was a member of Second Baptist Church in Springfield and quietly strived to be a good Christian in his daily life.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his in-laws, Dwight and Helen Weatherman.

Bob is survived by his loving wife of nearly 54 years, Audree; his daughter Angela Eden and husband Brad; and his daughter Andrea Carter and husband David; and his three grandchildren, Alivia and Hunter Carter and Dwight Eden.

A family visitation is planned for 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Wednesday, March 23, at Gorman-Scharpf Funeral Home at 1947 E. Seminole St., Springfield. The family plans a private graveside service at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made to the Missions Program of Second Baptist Church, 3111 E. Battlefield Street, Springfield, Mo., 65804.