Robert R. “Bob” Lange, 74, of Cedar Rapids, died peacefully Wednesday, October 19, 2011, at the Dennis and Donna Oldorf Hospice House of Mercy, Hiawatha. Funeral Mass: 10:00 a.m. Monday, October 24, 2011, at St. Pius X Catholic Church in Cedar Rapids, Father Phil Thompson presiding. Visitation will be from 2-6 p.m. Sunday at Murdoch Funeral Home & Cremation Center in Marion. A Knights of Columbus Rosary will be recited at 5:00 p.m. and a Parish Vigil Service at 5:30 p.m. There will also be visitation one hour prior to the service at the church. Burial: Cedar Memorial Park Cemetery, Cedar Rapids. Military honors will be provided by VFW Post No. 788 of Cedar Rapids.
Survivors include his wife, Phyliss; four children, Terry (Steph) Lange, Tim (Rhonda) Lange, Tracy (Mark) Hammons, and Tricia (Ken) Miller; and eight grandchildren Kristina, Dustin, Kelsey, Connor, Nicole, Ciara, Parker, and Brooke; two brothers, Skip and Dale Lange; and many loving family members.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Rena and Joseph Lange; two brothers, Jerry and Joe Lange; and a sister, Elaine Potter.
Bob was born November 29, 1936, to Joseph and Rena (Grassel) Lange in East Dubuque, IL. He served in the United States Army as a Military Policeman. Bob was united in marriage on October 14, 1961, to the love of his life, Phyliss Bennett in Hazel Green, WI. He was a member and active volunteer at St. Pius X Catholic Church. After 36 years working in the bread business, he retired from Metz Baking Company. Bob then joined his wife running the St. Francis Religious Books & Gifts store. He was a member of the Teamster Local 238, VFW Post 788 and Knights of Columbus Council 5390. He was honored to be a 4th Degree Knight and served as the Faithful Navigator for the John R Gallagher Assembly 3180. This past year Bob missed working the pancake breakfasts and fish frys sponsored by the KC’s. He was a member of the Mercy Auxiliary and is fondly remembered by many as a volunteer at the hospital’s coffee corner. Bob was a big man in stature with a generous spirit; he touched many people through his infectious smile, quick wit and warm demeanor. Bob loved the game of golf, playing on the KC and Intermec golf leagues. His wife was his greatest treasure, spending time with his family and grandchildren brought him great joy. After retirement, Bob and Phyliss enjoyed traveling and volunteering, they were blessed with many friends.
The annual family reunion, winter family weekend getaways, and family holiday hop were times he loved most and will always be treasured memories. He endured his illness with dignity and grace; in his final days he was cared for and surrounded by his family.
The family would like to thank Dr. Ghosh, the Mercy Hospice team and Father Phil Thompson for their support during this difficult time. We were grateful for the Oldorf Hospice House of Mercy in his final hours.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be directed to Hospice of Mercy, Dennis & Donna Oldorf Hospice House of Mercy or St. Pius X Catholic Church.