Robert “Bob” Harlan Pfantz, formerly of State Center

Robert Harlan Pfantz, known affectionately as Bob, passed away on August 1, 2024 at 9:42 pm, in Papillion, Nebraska, at the age of 82.

Born on February 5, 1942, in lowa City, Iowa, Bob spent his formative years in the Saint Anthony/State Center area where he received his education. His commitment to service was evident through his extensive career in the United States Army. He was a proud Vietnam veteran who served for over 13 years, during which he traveled to numerous countries and completed flight school to become a helicopter pilot. Following his honorable discharge from the military, Bob pursued a career as a truck driver, embracing the open road for 42 years until his retirement. In 1980 he wed Gloria Muench in Effingham, Illinois and later relocating to State Center, Iowa to raise their family.

Family was central to Bob’s life, and he cherished the time spent with his loved ones. He is survived by his siblings, Mary Ellen Carty; his children, Robert (Sheila) Pfantz of DeRitter, Louisiana, LaRonda Pfantz of Norwalk, Iowa, Jason (Jennifer) Pfantz of Norwalk, Iowa, Monica Pfantz of Minden, Iowa, Darcy (Sebastian) Birke of Minden, Iowa, and Shelly Umbaugh. Bob was a beloved grandfather to Zachary (Jessica) Pfantz, Logan Pfantz, Logan Turner, Kailee Umbaugh, Keegan Long, Ashlynn Umbaugh, Ashton Birke, Alexus Umbaugh, Lawson Pfantz, Leilah Pfantz, Ivylynn Birke, Beckett Birke, Dalton Birke, Marissa Birke, Laynee Birke, Kayla Eady, and Kristina Ballard. He also leaves behind great-grandchildren Zachary Jr., Lincoln, Alaiya, Amaya, Alexa, TJ, Isaac, Levi, Kathryn, Joshua, and Hannah. As well as great-great-grandchildren Athena and Juniper.

Bob was preceded in death by his biological and adopted parents, his wife of 40 years Gloria Pfantz, sister Carol, grand-children Harlan and Serinidy and many other loved ones.

Bob’s life will be celebrated at a memorial gathering and luncheon, which includes a short service, on August 31, 2024, from 1-4 pm at the First Presbyterian Church in State Center, Iowa. The Chapel of Memories in Omaha, Nebraska, assisted in the cremation per Bob’s wishes. Bob’s legacy of service, both military and civilian, and his devotion to his family will be remembered by all who knew and loved him.

Contributions and gifts, they may be sent to
Darcy Birke (care of Robert Pfantz)
P.O. Box 172
Minden, Iowa 51553