Bob Zaruba

Robert “Bob” Zaruba, 86, of Marshalltown, Iowa, passed away on the morning of June 1, 2024 in the comfort of his own home.

Per his wishes, cremation rites have been accorded and a family-led celebration of life will be held at a later date. Memorials in Bob’s name may be directed to his family for a later designation. For additional information or to send a condolence to the family please visit www.mitchellfh.com or call 641-844-1234.

Robert Lee Zaruba was born August 6, 1937 in Oxford Junction, Iowa. He was the fourth of seven children born to John and Francis (Coppess) Zaruba. Bob grew up in the Jones County Area along with his family. He attended school in Oxford Junction and graduated a year early with the Class of 1954. Bob enlisted in the United States Army where he served from August of 1954 until he was honorably discharged in July 1957.

On April 8, 1960, he was united in marriage to the love of his life, Darlene Timm. They began their lives together with Darlene’s daughter Carol in Wyoming, Iowa until 1964. They then moved to Marshalltown, Iowa. They then had one son together, Chad. Bob was working for Gray Iron Foundry for many years until they closed down. He then picked up again on small engine repair for B and K Co., Rons Repair, and Wayne’s Repair where he eventually retired.

Bob was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Marshalltown. In his free time, Bob enjoyed going on trips to bluegrass festivals, taking trips to the casino, and playing cards. He enjoyed spending time with his family, going to dances with Darlene, and traveling with his side of the family to go to bluegrass festivals.

He is survived by his son, Chad (Tammy) Zaruba; his grandchildren, Olivia Zaruba, Cody (Emily) Prusha, Alex (Elizabeth) Prusha; Jason Short; great-grandchildren, Hunter and Samantha Short, Stephanie Rumley; and four great-great-grandchildren. Also surviving him are his brothers, Jimmy Zaruba and Jerry Zaruba.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Darlene who passed in 2018; his siblings, Johnny Zaruba, Wayne Zaruba, Glen Dale Zaruba; and his twin sister, Barbara Widel; his daughter, Carol Armstrong; granddaughter, Linda Sanderson; and great-grandson, TJ Sanderson.