Bob Mckinley

Robert Lee McKinley, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of love, service, and faith that touched the lives of everyone who knew him.

Born on August 8, 1930, in Winamac, Indiana, to Lawrence Obed and Juanita Cecelia McKinley, Robert (Bob), grew up during a time of great economic challenges. As the youngest of four children, he cherished the bonds he shared with his siblings, LaVergne, Mary Margaret, and Lawrence Owen, and held dear the memories of small-town life in Winamac.

Robert's childhood was marked by hard work, resilience, and creativity. From selling popcorn on the streets with his brother to working various jobs as a teenager, he learned the value of determination and self-reliance. These traits would define him throughout his life.

A proud veteran, Robert served his country in the United States Navy, where he displayed unwavering dedication and integrity. His time aboard the USS Worcester and later the LST 664 during the Korean War shaped his character and deepened his appreciation for life and service.

Robert's greatest joy came when he met the love of his life, Barbara, whom he married on December 19, 1952. Their union of 72 beautiful years was a testament to their unwavering commitment and shared faith. Together, they built a loving home filled with laughter, warmth, and the joy of raising their two children, Brenda and Brent.  One of Robert's most difficult challenges has been the separation from his beloved sweetheart who preceded him in passing on July 22, 2023.

In 1969, Robert, Barbara, and their family embraced the restored gospel of Jesus Christ, a decision that would profoundly shape their lives. The family was later sealed in the Salt Lake City Temple of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, solidifying their eternal bonds. Robert faithfully and joyfully served the Lord through decades of devoted service in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He served as a bishop, counselor, member of the High Council, and in numerous other callings. Each opportunity to serve brought him immense joy as he ministered to others and shared his unwavering testimony of Jesus Christ.

Robert and Barbara also served a leadership mission in the Louisiana Baton Rouge Mission, where they touched countless lives with their kindness, compassion, and love for the gospel. Despite life's challenges, including losing his sight early in his life, Robert's spirit remained unshaken. His humor, wisdom, and faith inspired all who knew him.

He found immense joy in his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who will carry forward his legacy of love, kindness, and service. His life reflected the values he held dear: family, faith, and service to others.

Robert Lee McKinley will be deeply missed, but his legacy will live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know him and touched by his life and testimony of the Savior.

A celebration of Robert's life will be held in a private ceremony where family members will gather to honor and remember a man who truly exemplified a life well-lived. His family finds comfort in the knowledge that they will be reunited with him in the eternities.

"Families can be together forever" was not just a belief for Robert but a promise he treasured and lived by. May his love and example continue to guide us until we meet again.

We are deeply grateful for the compassionate care given to Robert in this past year. His daughter, Brenda, and her husband, Gary, and Robert's grandson, Brandon, devoted countless years to selfless and loving service, ensuring that both Robert and Barbara were surrounded by love and support. Over the past year, Brenda's full-time, tender care for her father was a beautiful expression of her unwavering love and dedication.

We wish to express our deepest gratitude to the exceptional caregivers who brought comfort and dignity to Robert and our family during this difficult time.

To the remarkable team at Hospice of Eastern Idaho, we are forever thankful. Your compassion, skill, and unwavering dedication ensured that Robert's final year was filled with peace, dignity, and love. We are especially grateful to his wonderful nurse, Patricia Young, whose tender care and kindness brought immeasurable comfort to both Robert and our family. Our heartfelt thanks also goes to Melissa Williams, his caring social worker; Alyce Jeppesen, his compassionate chaplain; and Corina Knight, the Hospice Director of Nursing, whose years of attentive care for both Mom and Dad brought immense comfort and support.

We also extend our gratitude to the caregivers from OneSource Personal Care Services. Angelo Jaramillo, Robert's morning caregiver and companion, brought kindness and companionship that enriched his life in countless ways. Gabrielle Rodriguez, his PCS aide, provided compassionate care and support in his final days.

Each of these incredible individuals made an indelible impact on Robert's life and ours. Their love and care will forever be remembered and cherished.