A PORTRAIT OF BOB STOEBE
Through the Eyes of a Volunteer

If I had to describe Bob
What words would I use to convey
This gentle giant of a man
Whose appearance did not portray
Where he had been in life
What sacrifices he had made
A loving husband, father
Grandfather, Great Grandfather
With faith to the Lord, he prayed.

It was wintertime when first we met
It must have been a few years ago
I noticed that he wore a hat
Was it because of the wind and snow?

But as days went on there he'd be
Wearing the hat that was part of him
He'd say hello and how are you
Then he'd smile that wisp of a grin.

What I admired the most about him
Was the wooden crucifix he wore
With a gold wedding band attached
Expressing the loves he did adore.

We'd chat awhile, some small talk
Never at a loss so it seemed
Off he'd go to comfort someone
This man of high esteem.

Bob loved the veterans he would meet
Visiting them in his peaceful way
Surely he helped his fellow man
Volunteering day by day.

For what great love could there be
To give compassion to your brother
Veteran to veteran it has become
A bond unequalled by any other.

The twilight of his life drew near
Health problems he'd say he had
Some appointments and check-ups
Never letting on just how bad.

Now the Fall Season has arrived
Season of Summer on the wane
As Bob grew tired, knew the time
Was for memories to remain.

So here we are remembering Bob
In the nicest kind of way
I had not knows of his heroics
Until this very day.

Never boasting about the Purple Heart
He received in action during the war
Tells us something about this man
And yes, there is truly more.

His missionary trips; selfless works
Proves the nature of this man
And now I know he's with the Lord
They're walking hand in hand.

and....

If I had to describe Bob
What words would I use to convey
This gentle giant of a man
Remembering his gentle ways.

Time will heal the sorrow we feel
For the legacy Bob left behind
Give of ourselves to our fellow man
Love one another and be kind.

©Copyright December 2006 by Janet Rattay

This tribute was written after the death of Bob Stoebe, my friend and fellow volunteer. I was honored when asked to read the poem at his funeral