Robert K. Diekmann was born on August 11, 1941 in St. Louis, Missouri to Herbert Franz Diekmann and Elizabeth Ann Diekmann (nee Schafer), and entered into rest on Tuesday, May 6, 2025 at the age of 83.
Loving husband of almost 54 years to his devoted wife Antonia Diekmann (nee Thorne). Dear father of Diane Diekmann and Kathy (John) Dobbs. Grandfather of John Robert Dobbs and Josie Rae Dobbs. Brother of Mary (Bill) DuBois and the late William and his late wife Catherine Diekmann. Dear brother-in-law, cousin, and uncle to many.
During Bob’s early years, he cherished his summers in Port Huron, Michigan with his grandparents, mother, aunt, uncle, cousins and siblings. After attending St. Mary Magdalene in South City, Bob entered and spent 7 years in the Oblates of Mary Immaculate Seminary in Carthage, Missouri. He finished his college years at St. Louis University and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Education with a Minor in History in January of 1964. In May of 1964, Bob joined the United States Navy and spent his 3 years of active duty as an officer on the USS Washburn during the Vietnam War. After the Navy, in 1971, Bob completed his Masters Degree in Philosophy (Research) at St. Louis University. He began his working career as a history teacher but spent most of his years as a commodity buyer and manager.
Bob met his wife Toni at a Catholic Alumni Club meeting in October 1967, and told his mother that he had finally met the woman he would marry. On June 26th, 1971, Bob and Toni married. Bob always wanted two daughters. That dream came true when Diane and Kathy were born.
Some of Bob’s favorite things included swimming, jogging, hiking, waterskiing and being on a boat. In his younger years he worked in a greenhouse and as a lifeguard in the summer. Bob loved going to Wrightsville Beach in North Carolina. He had a sense of humor and often recounted funny stories about family adventures. Bob enjoyed James Bond and western movies and discussing anything about history or cars. He even attended many races with his brother Bill.
Bob was guided by strong Christian values that he lived out daily, praying each night for the health and wellness of his loved ones. He was a dedicated father and grandfather, and supported his two daughters and two grandchildren in their adventures and challenges. His life exemplified the best of humanity.
A private memorial service will be held on Wednesday, May 21, 2025 at Kutis Funeral Home in Affton, followed by a service at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made In Bob’s honor to the Heart Association using (this link) or sent to Dogs for Our Brave using (this link).
Thinking of all of you and holding you in my prayers.
Mr Dielmann taught at Bayless. I had him as a teacher. Wonderful to hear all the details and accomplishments in his life.