Robert L. Oglesbee

Robert L. Oglesbee, 89, of Polk City, Iowa, formerly of San Benito, Texas, Storm Lake, and Thayer, Iowa, passed away on March 15, 2025, in Des Moines, Iowa.

Robert Laverne Oglesbee was born on January 26, 1936, in Peru, Iowa, to Harley and Regina (Forture) Oglesbee. He grew up in Thayer and graduated from high school there. He began his career working as a surveyor for the State of Iowa, a profession he would return to throughout his life. While in high school, he met Sharon Shroudemeir, whom he would later marry. In 1958, he was drafted into the U.S. Army and served with the combat engineers.

Following his military service, Bob resumed his work in surveying and, with Sharon, adopted two children, Jason and Jayna. They made their home on a farm outside of Thayer. Though Bob and Sharon later divorced, he remained on the farm, continuing to work both the land and in his surveying career.

Bob met Patricia (McCall) Gilmore, who became his long-time partner of more than 40 years until her passing in 2019. Together, they sold the farm and purchased a mini mart in Storm Lake, Iowa. Bob also worked for Buena Vista County as a surveyor until his retirement. Following retirement, he and Patricia traveled extensively in their fifth-wheel trailer, eventually settling in San Benito, Texas, where they spent over two decades in the Rio Grande Valley.

Bob was a member of the Elks Lodge and the American Legion. He had a deep love for the outdoors, spending time hunting and fishing. He was also known for his love of dancing, shooting pool, and sharing stories and jokes. Bob had a gift for making friends wherever he went and brought joy to those around him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Harley and Regina; his brother, Dean; his sister, Charlotte; his life partner, Patricia; and his son, Jason.

Bob is survived by his daughter, Jayna, and his extended family, Lisa Kempf and Chris Gilmore. He also leaves behind eight grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren.

His headstone will read “1936 – 2025,” and it’s the dash in between that truly mattered. That dash represents a life full of love, laughter, hard work, and meaningful connections across the country. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew him.

A memorial graveside service with military honors will be held at 11:00 AM, Saturday, April 26, 2025, at the Winterset Cemetery.