Robert G. 'Bob' Damman, 92, Sanborn

A memorial service for Robert G. "Bob" Damman was held Thursday, April 25, 2024, at the American Lutheran Church in Melvin. Pastor Judy Johnson officiated.

Pallbearers were David Damman, Clara Damman, Stewart Damman, Scott Floyd, Dale Floyd and Chris Truckey. Military graveside rites were conducted by the Melvin American Legion, Reed Guthrie Post #470. Interment was in Baker Township Cemetery at Melvin. Sanborn Funeral Home assisted with the arrangements.

Robert George "Bob" Damman was born Feb. 13, 1932 on a farm north of Sanborn, the first child of George and Jean Damman. His childhood years were spent much like other rural kids, a mix of work, play and school. Being the oldest son, he began helping his dad around the farm at an early age, taking on chores and responsibilities as he was able.

Bob received his education at Sanborn Community School where he was part of the Bulldog baseball team. After graduating from Sanborn High School in 1950, he worked with his dad and brother, Glenn, on the family farm.

Tending row crops and livestock was put on hold for a time while Bob served his country with the United States Army. He spent over one year in Korea during his tour of duty which began February of 1953, and ended with his honorable discharge in November of 1954. Having returned home, Bob resumed his agricultural pursuit, thankful to be able to once again call himself an Iowa farmer.

Bob was united in marriage to Marilyn M. Knock on Dec. 29, 1963, at the American Lutheran Church in Melvin. They made their home in Melvin, so Bob commuted daily to manage his ag operation near Sanborn. In later years, fields of corn and soybeans came to include huge, lush vegetable gardens as well.

Bob's lifelong passion for agriculture naturally led to a curiosity and understanding of the geological makeup of the region he farmed, the prairies and sloughs that used to be here, as well as the people who were stewards of this land before him. He found the work he did with Dr. Don Peters on the early stages of the Western corn rootworm particularly gratifying, as well as the hours spent with his friend, Dr. Elwynn Taylor, tutoring him via phone calls about weather predictions. Both men were experts in their field at Iowa State University in Ames.

The area around the lakes and its history were also of interest to Bob, as he and Marilyn enjoyed relaxing near the blue waters of Lake Okoboji whenever they could, spending treasured times there with family and friends, or just hanging out around home.

Bob was a member of the Shriners and belonged to the Masonic Lodge in Sanborn. He was also a proud member of Reed Guthrie Post #470 of the American Legion in Melvin.

Bob passed from this life on Friday, April 19, 2024, at the age of 92, being reunited with loved ones who had gone before: his wife, Marilyn (2022); his parents, George and Jean Damman; sister, Eileen Floyd; sister-in-law, Bonnie Damman; brother-in-law, Bruce Knock; brothers and sisters-in-law: Virgil and Virginia Knock, and Marlo and Wilma Knock; and two nephews.

He is survived by his brother, Glenn Damman, of Sanborn; sister-in-law, Shirley Knock, of Sioux Falls, S.D.; many nieces and nephews; other relatives and many dear friends who made his life complete.