Robert Lee Houghtaling passed away peacefully at the age of 93 on November 18, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of service, devotion, humor, and steadfast love. Born 1932 in Hume, Missouri, he lived a long and meaningful life rooted in family, duty, and simple joys. He now reunites with his beloved wife of 72 years, Norma Jean Houghtaling, who preceded him in death and whom he cherished every day of their life together.

A proud veteran, he served his country for 20 years in the United States Air Force, ultimately achieving the rank of Chief Master Sergeant. He specialized in electronics and radar of B52’s. His career took him all over the world, including assignments in Spain, Africa, Okinawa, and England—experiences that broadened his perspective, strengthened his skills, and deepened his pride in serving his nation. His quiet professionalism, extraordinary work ethic, and unwavering reliability earned him deep respect among his peers and those he mentored. He was known as “Gentleman Bob.” After retiring from the Air Force, he embarked on a second 20-year career as a postal clerk with the United States Postal Service. There, he continued to embody the same dedication and integrity that had defined his military life.

For 20 years, he and his wife Norma lived at Fremont Hills—a place that became his sanctuary and daily source of joy for both of them. Nearly every morning, he could be found out on the fairways with his beloved “cronies,” sharing laughs, stories, friendly competition, and the kind of camaraderie that lasts a lifetime. Golf was more than a pastime for him; it was a rhythm to his days and a connection to the friends he cherished and constantly remembering to “finish high.”

Together, he and Norma shared a deep love of exploration and simple adventures. Over their 70 years of marriage, they traveled to places that brought them joy and peace—Hawaii, Mt. Rushmore, and Sedona were among their favorites. Those trips became some of their most cherished memories, filled with laughter, beautiful views, and the quiet companionship that defined their life together.

He was a devoted father to his two children, Renee Drury and Michael Houghtaling (wife, Tiffany) each of whom shared a unique and cherished relationship with him. With his son, he found companionship both in their shared postal careers and on the golf course—long, sunlit rounds filled with conversation, laughter, and memories that neither would ever forget. With his daughter, especially in his later years, he found comfort and deep connection. She lovingly cared for him, and together they spent countless quiet evenings watching movies and sharing sweet breakfasts of toast and strawberry preserves, moments that brought him great tenderness and peace.

To his two granddaughters, he was the quintessential doting grandfather—patient, gentle, and endlessly supportive. When they were young, he flipped pancakes and fried “dippy eggs” exactly the way they liked them, picked them up from daycare, fascinated them with how skillfully he shuffled cards, and shared ongoing encouragement to “get that degree, kid.” One favorite memory is when asking how he was doing, he would say, “I woke up with breath in my lungs and four working limbs. It’s a good day!” paired with doing his signature little jig. In his early 90s, the girls introduced their grandpa to manicures and “doing his nails,” which became a happy tradition whenever they would visit. In their eyes, Grandpa Bob was both gentle and mighty, a constant source of fatherly warmth and tender joy.

Those who knew him will remember him as a man of steady presence, a loving husband, a loyal friend, and a father and grandfather who gave generously of his time and heart. He was a great encourager to all—someone who lifted others with his gentle words, and the quiet belief that people were capable of more than they ever saw in themselves. His life was defined not by grand gestures, but by quiet acts of love—steady, reliable, and deeply felt.

The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to the ICU, step-down, and medical teams at Mercy for their exceptional care, compassion, and support during his final days. Their kindness brought comfort during a difficult time, and it will always be remembered.

He is survived by Renee Drury, Mike Houghtaling (wife Tiffany), granddaughters Rebecca Drury and Katie Herrin (husband Joseph), and is preceded in death by beloved Norma Houghtaling. He is survived by an extended family of nieces, nephews, and friends who loved him deeply.

A service honoring his life will be held on December 5 at Greenlawn South, with military honors following the service in recognition of his faithful and distinguished service in the United States Air Force. In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations to the Ozarks Food Harvest charity that reflects his life and service.