Robert Earl Israel, 84, Springfield, passed away Sunday, March 8, 2026. He was born April 18, 1941 in Springfield, the son of Ralph W. and Dulcie O. (Fawcett) Israel.

He served in the U.S. Navy on the Bryce Canyon.

He received his undergraduate degree from SMS (MO State) and his Master’s degree from University of Missouri. Robert was principal at Reed Junior High and retired as principal at Pipkin Middle School. He was a dedicated educator for 30 years.

Bob enjoyed sports, especially cheering for the Kansas City Chiefs and St. Louis Cardinals. He was a referee for football and basketball and coached American Legion Baseball.

Bob and his wife, Suzy, enjoyed retirement. He supervised student teachers at Missouri State for a few years and played a lot of golf.

He was a faithful Christian and a member of Covenant Presbyterian Church.

Bob will be missed by family and friends and the young people whose lives he touched as an educator.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a younger brother, Eddie Israel; older brother, Jack Israel; and a nephew, Ed Israel.

Bob is survived by his wife, Suzanne; daughter, Julie (Brian) Ross; son, Randy Israel; grandson, Patrick (Roseo) Ross; granddaughter, McKenna Ross; sisters-in-law, Betty Israel and Paula Firestone; and a niece, Jackie Hart.

Graveside services with full military honors will be held at 11:00 a.m. Monday, March 16, 2026 in Missouri Veterans Cemetery, Springfield. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Ronald McDonald House of the Ozarks, 949 East Primrose Street, Springfield, MO 65807.