Bob graduated from high school at LeGrand and went on to earn his bachelor’s degree while being a multi-sport athlete at William Penn College. He later earned his master’s degree in Industrial Education at Iowa State University. After marrying Bonnie Hoskins at Liberty Friends Church in Clemons, Iowa, and serving in the Army where he taught Fire Direction Control, they returned to LeGrand to make a home. Mr. Phipps, as many knew him, held the titles of teacher, coach, and athletic director. He retired from the LDF school district in 1990 and kept long-standing relationships with colleagues and students alike.

Bob was a faithful Christian who embodied the fruits of the Spirit. He was a committed husband and a selfless father to Rob and Jamie.

Left to cherish his memory are his wife of 67 years, Bonnie Phipps of LeGrand, son Robert (Alexandra) Phipps of Duluth, Georgia, son James Phipps of LeGrand, and Denise Phipps of LeGrand. His grandchildren include Jessica (Josh) Zeigler, Emily (Anthony) Gall, Jacob (Morgan) Phipps, Dylan Maas, and Alexis Phipps. His great-grandchildren include Jude, Jett, Jace, Cecil, Samuel, Calvin, Luke, and a baby girl on the way. Other survivors include his sister Mary Ann Phipps Silbermann, brothers-in-law Denzil Hoskins and Charles Hoskins, in addition to many nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by parents Fred and Mary Phipps who remarkably lived to be 92 and 93, respectively, and his aunt Esther Hatcher.

A celebration of life will be held at LeGrand Cemetery gravesite May 22, at 10:30 a.m. All are invited to come and share a happy memory of Bob. A lunch will follow at LeGrand Friends Church.