Robert E. Spencer

Robert Spencer, 77, passed away Friday, October 4, 2024, at his home in Glen Meadows Retirement Community in West Des Moines, Iowa after complications from a recent surgery.

Robert was born October 30, 1946, to Luke and Leona Spencer of Cleves, IA. He came from humble beginnings but managed to thrive in school during his younger years. During his high school years, he was called upon to help support the family and in effort to do so his primary focus then shifted to working on local farms.

Robert (Bob as most knew him by) will be remembered for his work ethic, sense of humor, selfless good nature and the unconditional love he had for his family and friends. None more so than the love of his life, JoAnn.

Bob and JoAnn met in 1964, and he made many return trips to her hometown of Shell Rock during his courtship of her. They soon married in 1965 and welcomed two children during their marriage, Michele (1972) and Michael (1977). He was passionate about providing a life for his children that allowed them to pursue their interests, and he was always there to support them. Faulkner, IA (North Faulkner as Bob referred to it) was home for most of his life and was where he was most at peace.

Bob was an extremely talented and hardworking man and could fix anything when called upon. He loved his shop in Geneva where he started his business, Spencerbilt. Bob and JoAnn owned and operated Spencerbilt for many years serving the needs of the local farming community. The shop was also where Bob’s many inventions came to life that he would go on to sell to large agriculture manufacturers and universities. Bob was also an avid car and tractor enthusiast and later transformed part of his shop into a museum showcasing his prized possessions of classic cars, tractors and memorabilia from the 50’s and 60’s. Bob was a dedicated man of God and donated his time and energy to the church. He served as a Trustee, Sunday school teacher and led the charge on many improvement projects at the places where he worshiped.

After decades of sacrificing his body to serve others, his health over the recent years steadily began to decline. Bob and JoAnn made the decision to move to West Des Moines in 2023 to be closer to their children and grandchildren. Bob absolutely loved being around his grandchildren and beamed with pride and joy when watching them participate in their many activities. He was ‘Papa’ Bob to them. He loved them dearly, was their biggest cheerleader, and provided an endless supply of hugs and ice cream when they were together.

Bob is survived by his wife, JoAnn; children, Michele (Terry), and Michael (Trista); and grandchildren, Ayden, Macy and Mila.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents Luke and Leona, stepmother Esther, and siblings Leonard, Donny, and Donna.

Bob’s wishes after his passing were to be cremated and asked his family not to hold a formal funeral and burial service. The family will honor his wishes and invites you to a celebration of life service starting at 1:30 p.m. Saturday, October 19, 2024 at Glen Meadows Retirement Center, 850 S. 60th St. in West Des Moines, IA. Following the service an endless supply of hugs and ice cream will be provided in honor of Bob.

Bob’s family kindly asks that in lieu of flowers or gifts please honor his memory with a selfless act of kindness to someone in need, just as Bob would have done.

Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

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