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Submitted: 6/17/22 • Approved: 6/21/22 • Last Updated: 6/24/22 • R274160-G0-S3
Robert "Bob" L. McKellep
April 17, 1943 - February 17, 2022
Robert (Bob) McKellep, a proud Vietnam Veteran of the US Navy, took his last breath and returned to his eternal home with Jesus on February 17th, 2022, at the age of 78. Bob passed away at the Dougherty Hospice House in Sioux Falls SD, surrounded by his loved ones. He left this world a hero who was adored by all who knew him. Memorial services will be 3:00 p.m., Friday, April 22, 2022, at George Boom Funeral Home & On-Site Crematory, Sioux Falls. A celebration of his life will follow from 4:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m., also at the funeral home.
Robert LeRoy McKellep, Bob, as he was known to most, was born April 17th, 1943, to Stan and Ruth McKellep and attended Wadena High School before enlisting in the Navy. Bob married the love of his life, Susan Seeman, on April 20th, 1968, at Assembly of God in Wadena, MN.
As an E6 (Petty Officer), first class for the Navy, Bob was on the USS Willard Keith & USS Yorkton with his brother, Tom. He wrote heartfelt letters home to his beloved, Susan, detailing the antics of his fellow soldiers, the scenery in the area, and a very edited description of the action he encountered.
Bob retired from the Navy in 1971 after his daughter, Leah was born. He became a Deputy U.S Marshall shortly after his discharge and remained until 1993. After his retirement, he continued to work part time at Walmart in Sporting Goods and later as a Federal Court Security Officer. When Bob wasn’t working, he enjoyed fishing, shooting his gun, and spending time with his grandchildren and great grandchildren, expressing his love through “poofing” & funny faces and never forgetting to give a goodbye kiss. One thing his granddaughters will always remember of him is his expertise at making scrambled eggs, a task they have been unable to perfect. Bob had a passionate love affair with popcorn, Cheetos, Sam’s homemade caramel rolls, and anything sweet.
Grateful for having shared his life include his lovely wife of 53 years, Susan McKellep; sister, Kathy Lathrop (Bud); brother, Scott McKellep (Bonita); a beloved daughter, Leah Steineke (John); a son, Jeff McKellep (Jennifer); 7 grandchildren, Brittni McGee (Casey); Samantha Clark (Jason); Jacob Steineke; Morgan, Carson, Alexis, and Evan McKellep; along with 2 great grandchildren, Raina and Ava McGee and a great grandson on the way that will be named River Clark.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Stan and Ruth McKellep; brothers, Phillip and Tom McKellep (Yvonne); and a sister, “Baby” Jane McKellep.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Dougherty Hospice House of Sioux Falls in Bob’s memory, who offered unwavering care, support, and continuous prayer throughout his brief time there.
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Section East Knoll Plot # 932
Military marker back of HS
Contributed on 6/17/22 by 9katz
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Record #: 274160