Bob Schwalbach

Robert “Bob” Schwalbach, age 74 of Gilman, IA, passed away on Thursday, February 6, 2025 at Sunny Hill Care Center in Tama, after a valiant battle with cancer.

Bob was born on June 1, 1950 to Robert and Kathleen Schwalbach in Oak Park, IL. After graduating from Marist High School in 1968, he went on to study biology at Doane College, where he played football. After college, Bob taught science and coached football until 1986 in Walthill, NE.

Bob married Vicki Franksen in 1977 and they had two children, Katie and Russell. In 1986, they moved to Gilman, IA, where they lived until the present time. He was a principal at SEMCO, worked at Grinnell Reinsurance and eventually drove truck.

Bob played and collected guitars his whole life; he played in numerous bands over the years, including Border Line.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Kathleen. He is survived by his wife, Vicki; daughter, Katie (Drew) Leilich and their children, Liza, Lucas and Liam of South Carolina; son, Russell Schwalbach of Bondurant. He is also survived by his sister, Doloreus (Les) Reifke and her family, all of Dakota Dunes, SD; David Reifke and Denise (Pat) Honner and their children, Eli and Emma.

Per Bob’s wishes, cremation rites have taken place. Memorial Services will be held at 1:00 P.M. on Monday, February 10, 2025 at Laurel Community Church. Burial will be at a later date in Hillside Cemetery in Merrill, IA.

Memorial donations may be directed to the family for a donation to Iowa River Hospice for the wonderful care they provided to Bob.

Mitchell Family Funeral Home has been entrusted to care for Bob and his family. To leave online condolences, please visit www.mitchellfh.com. Ph. 641-844-1234.