Robert Leroy Fender (Bob)

Dad and Grandpa was born May 3, 1931 to Clifford and Sue (Chowning) Fender in Springfield, MO. He went home to Heaven on Labor Day September 5, 2022 at his home surrounded by his family. He graduated from Springfield Senior High School (Central) and later got his degree at Drury College. Bob then signed up for the Navy and served 4 years in the Air Branch of the Navy during the Korean War, being stationed in Iceland for 2 years. He then began his working career as a Highway Designer for the Missouri Department of Transportation for 39 years, playing a large role in the building of HWY 65 by-pass and Shepherd of the Hills Expressway.

Bob played Semi-Pro Baseball and Triple-A Fast Pitch Softball one year leading the league in hitting as a member of The News Leader Parrots. He was a highly skilled golfer accumulating numerous trophies in golf tournaments. An avid sports fan dedicated to the St. Louis Cardinals his entire life. In 1957 he married B. Janelle Boyts, and they enjoyed 60 years of marriage before she went to Heaven May 2017.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, his sister and her husband Shirley J. and Guy W. Lewis. Also, his beloved dogs Peace, Lady, Rusty, Bruiser, Bandit, Chelsea and his precious cats Friskie, Puff, Skidder, Magic and Griffin.

He is survived by his son Rob (Jo) and his daughter Cindy, grandchildren Hailey, Tyler (Kelly) and Spencer (Ann) and his great-granddaughters Elizabeth, Rylinn, and Ailanna Wasman. A niece he had a special connection with, Vicki Barnett, who won his heart every time she called and said, "Come giddy me!" Two nephews, Rick (Lynnette) and Mick (Chandler) Lewis, whom he enjoyed many memorable times with. Their children; Stacy, Robin, Hayden and Perry. His cats, Ben, Piccolo, Opossum and Walt.

As a young man Bob was baptized accepting Jesus Christ as his personal savior. He had an unprecedented dedication to his family along with a great sense of humor often saying the funniest things and leaving us all with a million laughs. Bob is going to be dearly missed.
A special thanks to his wonderful nurse Kristyn and Social Worker Lanay along with the whole Hospice Team for their support and care. Thank you.

Services are scheduled for 4:00pm Saturday September 10, 2022 at Gorman-Scharpf Funeral home beginning with Military Honors.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to your favorite animal rescue or shelter.