Robert Hall Stroud, affectionately known as Bob, passed away peacefully in his sleep during the early morning hours of May 2, 2026, in Storm Lake, Iowa. He was 88 years old. Bob was born on June 7, 1937, in Nashville, Tennessee. He lived a life defined by service, dedication, and devotion to those he loved.
Shortly after graduating from high school, Bob enlisted in the United States Air Force. He proudly served his country for more than 24 years before retiring honorably in December 1980. During his military career, he was stationed at various locations throughout the United States and abroad. While stationed at Richards-Gebaur Air Force Base in Missouri, he met Elizabeth Mary Saflarske. They were married on September 5, 1958, and together welcomed four children.
Following his retirement from the Air Force, Bob continued his strong work ethic through careers in Kansas and later Iowa, where he built lasting friendships and remained active in his community. In Iowa, he met Mavis Yunge through a friend and spent the next 46 years together. They worked together at the Cherokee Mental Institute helping others.
Bob is survived by his longtime companion, Mavis Yunge; his children, both biological and adopted through love and family bonds: Michael Stroud and his wife, Lisa Stroud; Debra Stroud; Mary Faye Stroud; Suzan (Stroud) Craven; Sonya Markey and her husband, Jim Markey; and Dawn Grell and her husband, Jeff Grell.
He was a proud grandfather to Jason Stroud and his wife, Katrina Stroud; Camryn Bañuelos and her husband, Joseph Bañuelos; Lauren Turner; Alicia Mickelson and her significant other, Brent Wiese; and Megan Mummert and her significant other, Jose Susano. Bob was also blessed with great-grandchildren Rome Ray Bañuelos, Colin Hamilton, Abriella Susano, and Koen Susano, who all brought him tremendous joy.
Bob will be remembered for his quiet strength, steadfast dedication to family, and the kindness he extended to those around him. His years of military service reflected his commitment to duty, while his relationships reflected his generous heart.
He was preceded in death by his sisters, Alma Lee and Barbara, his son-in-law, Michael Craven, and Mavis’ son, Mark Benson, who all welcomed Bob into eternal rest.
Bob’s family takes comfort in knowing that his long and meaningful life was filled with love and cherished memories. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew him. We will be holding a Celebration of Life for him on Sunday, 14 June from 1 PM to 4 PM with the formal service starting at 2 PM. Please join us at the Aurelia Community Center (235 Main Street) if you are able so we can say goodbye to Bob and celebrate his long life with his friends and family.
In lieu of flowers, please send any donations to the First Congregational Church in Aurelia, Iowa.