Robert Modlin

Robert “Bob” Modlin, 79, of Kellogg, died on Saturday, November 30, 2024, at UnityPoint Health -Grinnell Regional Hospital.

A Celebration of Life will be held 11:00 am on Saturday, December 7, 2024, at the Disciples of Christ (Kellogg Christian Church), 321 Bolton St, Kellogg, Iowa 50135. A visitation will be held from 4pm – 7pm, Friday, December 6, 2024, at Cox-Smith Funeral and Cremation Service. Memorials may be directed to the church and sent in care of Cox-Smith Funeral and Cremation Service, PO Box 163, Grinnell, Iowa 50112.

Bob was born on April 28, 1945, the son of Oliver and Mary (Ramsey) Modlin in Beebe, Arkansas. Bob was the baby of the family, being the youngest of nine. He attended Pella schools and then Newton High School. On February 3, 1967, he married his long-time love, Marla Deppe, at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Kellogg. Bob spent 27 years as a repair man for Maytag. Retiring in 1992. Bob couldn’t sit still, so from 1993 until the present, Bob worked for the City of Newton in the Parks Department.

Bob was an exceptional athlete and played fast pitch softball for Sully Plumbing and Heating team. If the Buffalo Bills were playing, he was glued to the tv. He was a well-loved man, definitely ornery and full of laughter. Bob was always up for a visit and was just fun to be around. Last March, he was baptized, and his love of the Lord and church grew. Bob loved his church family. Family meant everything and he was always there for them.

His legacy will carry on through his wife, Marla of 57 years, of Kellogg; daughter, Melissa (Mark) Burtlow of Newton; two brothers, Elmer (Judy) of Newton and James (Lynda) Modlin of Pella; and several nieces and nephews; and his special friend, Molly Balmer of Kellogg.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents; six siblings, William “Junior” Modlin, Vernon Modlin, Hoy Modlin, Loy Belle Stines, Lois Dale “Bo” and Faye Clark.

Cox-Smith Funeral and Cremation Service is assisting Bob’s family with arrangements.