Robert “Bob” Carl Oldis, 97, passed away on September 21st, 2025, in Gilbert, Arizona. Born on January 5, 1928, in Preston, Iowa, to Edward and Emma Oldis, Bob led a remarkable life rooted in his love for family and sports. 

He was a Minor and Major League Baseball player from 1949 to 1963. From 1964 onward he was a Coach and Scout for numerous Major League Baseball Clubs and was employed as a Scout with the Miami Marlins from 2002 until his death. His most memorable career moment was being a member of the 1960 Pittsburgh Pirates World Champion team. 

He officiated football and basketball many years for the Iowa High School Athletic Association. He was inducted into the National High School Sports Hall of Fame in 2000. He evaluated officials for the Big Ten at Iowa Basketball games. He was also a proud member of the Iowa Hawkeye Football Chain Gang for many years. He was a lifelong Iowa Hawkeye fan. 

Bobs vibrant personality left a lasting impression on those around him. Known for his generous spirit, jovial nature, and mischievous sense of humor, he was a passionate individual bringing laughter and warmth to whomever he met. 

He is survived by his wife, Mary Pat Oldis, daughter Susan Mellicker (George), his granddaughters Brenna Mellicker and Shannon Martin (Sam). 

He was preceded in death by his first wife Rosemary Cecelia Oldis, sons Robert (Bobby) Carl Oldis Jr., William Edward Oldis, and John (Jay) Patrick Oldis.

A Celebration of Life will be held November 1st, from 2:00 to 5:00 pm, at the Elks Club in Iowa City, Iowa. 

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Bobby Oldis Fields in Iowa City. 

Please make checks payable to Iowa City Parks and Recreation and write “Bobby Oldis Fields” in the memo line.

Mail to:

Iowa City Parks and Recreation 

In Care of Brad Barker

220 South Gilbert Street 

Iowa City, Iowa 52240