Robert "Bob" Radke

Robert Paul Radke, age 77, of Van Meter, Iowa, passed away on Tuesday, May 25, 2021 at home surrounded by family, after a 2 year fight with cancer. Bob was born on May 19, 1944 to Carl and Esther Radke in rural Van Meter. He was baptized and confirmed at Trinity Lutheran Church in Van Meter. During his high school years, Bob was very involved in 4-H and FFA. He graduated from Van Meter High School in 1962, and served in the US Army from 1962 – 1964 in Bamberg, Germany. After returning from the service, Bob farmed with his dad and had a cattle and grain trucking operation. He married Nancy Bartholomew on November 17, 1967 and together they raised two children: Greg and Krista. Following back surgery, Bob went to work for the State of Iowa and then the US Department of Agriculture, earning many awards during his 30 years of service. His work with the USDA moved the family to Oklahoma, Michigan and Nebraska, before Bob and Nancy retired back to their farm in Van Meter in 2005 and became winter Texans. In all the moves and changes, God blessed them with countless friends who became family. Throughout his life, Bob never met a stranger. His greatest loves were his family and his livestock. Bob is survived by his wife of 53 years, Nancy; children, Greg (Kelly) Radke of Waukee, IA and Krista (Jack) Barnhouse of Lincoln, NE; grandchildren, Alyssa and Aaron Barnhouse and Lucas Radke; brother, Don (Martha) Radke; sister, Maryann (Tom) Duax; sister-in-law, Janet Bartholomew; along with many cousins, nieces, and nephews. He was preceded In death by his parents, Carl and Esther Radke; brother, Bill Radke; and brother-in-law, John Bartholomew. A visitation will be held Tuesday, June 1 at the Veteran’s Reception Center in Van Meter from 4:00 – 7:30 p.m., with the family present from 5:00 – 7:30 p.m. A funeral service will be held Wednesday, June 2 at 10:30 a.m. at the Veteran’s Reception Center in Van Meter, with interment following at Trinity Lutheran Cemetery in Van Meter. Following the interment, a lunch will be held at the Veteran’s Reception Center. Come enjoy food and fellowship together as Bob requested. Special thanks to the workers at Unity Point Hospice for all their care and assistance. Memorial donations may be made to Trinity Lutheran Church or Van Meter American Legion Post 403. Online condolences may be left at www.caldwellparrish.com