Robert "Bob" Speed began his life on March 14, 1928 in Des Moines, IA and stormed the gates of Heaven on April 6, 2017 in  Ozark, MO.  Bob called Des Moines  "home and the best place in the world" for most of his life.  Upon his discharge from the Navy he enjoyed a 40-year career as a pressman with Meredith Publishing Co. He could tear up the dance floor and play a mean boogie woogie on his piano. Bob was a people person with a keen sense of humor and was loved by all who knew him. He will be remembered for his deep love for and pride in his family and the relationships he prized.

Waiting at Heaven's door were his wife of almost 50 years, Kella (Stone), second wife, Gretchen (Aspergren), mother Evelina Burton, father Robert Speed, step-mother Inez Speed, sister Eldene Pershing and son in law Gary Milligan.  He will be greatly missed by his daughter Debbie Milligan, Springfield, MO, sons Bob Speed, San Diego, CA and Kent Speed (Karen Speed), Pacific Grove, CA, granddaughter Heather Milligan and grandsons Shawn Milligan and Alec and Jake Speed, brother in law William Stone, great grandchildren Elena and Luca and a host of nieces and nephews and friends, all of whom adored him.

Friends and family are invited to celebrate Bob's life on April 22, 2017: Visitation 1PM, Memorial service 2PM, First Federated Church 4801 Franklin Ave., Des Moines, IA 50310.