Robert M. "Bob" Syata

Robert M. “Bob” Syata

Bob Syata, 76, passed away on Tuesday, December 6, 2022 at The VA Central Healthcare System in Des Moines, IA.

Bob was born in St. Joseph, Missouri on February 16, 1946 to George and Marie Syata.  He graduated from Christian Brothers High School and began his college career at Drake University.  After a four year delay, while serving his country with the U.S. Navy, Bob graduated from Missouri Western University with a degree in Business Administration/Marketing.

Bob married the love of his life, Barbara Sifford, in May of 1971.  They had one son, Dan, in December of 1972.  The couple lived in Red Oak, Iowa and Bob worked for thirty years in the medical equipment field as a Manager of Apria Healthcare.  Bob retired in November 2012.  After retirement, Bob and Barb moved to Ankeny, Iowa to spend more time with their family; Dan and Rhonda and two grandchildren – Josi and Brady.

Bob’s greatest accomplishment in his life was watching their Son grow up to be an outstanding and successful individual with a great attitude and excellent work ethic.  Bob was a devoted Elvis fan, with numerous Elvis memorabilia items in his collection.

He is preceded in death by his parents and brother-in-law, Jim Sifford.

Bob is survived by his wife:  Barb; their son:  Dan (Rhonda) Syata, grandchildren Josilyn and Braden, brother: George (Patsy) Syata, Sister in laws:  Sandra Sifford and Diane Sifford, and many nieces and nephews and close friends.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, December 9th at 10:30 at Our Lady’s Immaculate Heart Church (510 East First Street, Ankeny, IA  50021) with burial at a later date at the Iowa Veterans Cemetery in Van Meter Township.

As a final request of Bob, those attending the memorial service are asked to wear bright colored clothing.  Grey or black attire is not appropriate for his Celebration of Life.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to The Animal Rescue League of Iowa, Inc. Attn: Donations (5452 NE 22nd Street, Des Moines, Iowa  50313-2528).

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