Robert J. Bahl, Jr. age 64, passed away peacefully on Nov 28th at Unitypoint/Finley Hospital. He was born on October 6, 1954 in Dubuque IA., son of Robert J. Bahl Sr. and Wilma L. (Konzen) Bahl. He served his country in the United States Air Force and earned his Bachelor of Science Nursing degree in San Antonio, Texas. He was a dedicated ICU nurse for over 25 years.

Robert was no stranger to pain…his own pain, and that of other’s. He witnessed it all. In the toughest of situations, he was there to help. He used his medical knowledge and bedside-bravery to be caring and honest. Being honest was how he was raised, how he grew up, and how he lived his life. No question, his honesty may have caused others some discomfort at times. But that didn’t change who he was nor the lifestyle he lived.

He shared his life with his closest of friends and family. Robert was generous. He enjoyed travelling, great food, and fine wine – and he loved to share all of that with others. At an early age his ears taught his fingers how to master the piano. He liked musicals and theater, appreciating each note, applauding each act. From dinner parties to birthday celebrations, he was the Master of Detail. Had his health not failed so rapidly he would have choreographed the weather for his own funeral.

Robert’s independent vision of life may have broadened the vision of others. An interesting dichotomy of sorts – but interesting, he was. A good son, a good brother, a good uncle, a good friend.

Robert was preceded in death by his parents Robert and Wilma.

He is survived by his siblings Janice (Dave) Wagner, Barb (John) Liphardt, Diane (Tom) Thompson, Alan (Nancy) Bahl, Joyce (Dane) Jackson, and many nieces and nephews. He is also survived by his very special friend Ann Butterfield of Santee, CA. Ann, you made him whole.

We would like to thank the 5th floor nursing staff at Finley especially Travis, Ellie, Debbie, and Chrissy for their wonderful care.

For what is man, what has he got? If not himself, then he has naught. To say the things he truly feels. And not the words of one who kneels.
The record shows
He took the blows
And did it his way