Fortified with the Sacraments of Holy Mother Church on Thursday, December 25th, 2025.
Beloved husband of Ruth Josephine Hall (nee Kennebeck); devoted father of Robert (Derek Andre Gainey) Hall Jr. and Michael (Elizabeth) Hall; adoring grandfather of Wren Hall; dearest son of the late Seth and Viola Hall (nee Thurman); loving brother of Pamela (Troy) Brown, the late Darlene (Marvin) Sartors and the late Karen Marberry; our dear uncle, great uncle, brother-in-law, cousin, and friend to many.
In a career spanning more than 50 years, he served as a St. Louis Community Center Director, Director of Kirkwood Parks and Recreation, Superintendent of Recreation and Cultural Services for St. Louis County, and Associate Director and Director of St. Louis County Parks and Recreation. Bob then accepted the position of Executive Director for Gateway Parks and Trails, resulting in the creation of the Metropolitan Park and Recreation District (now known as the Great Rivers Greenway District and Metro East Park District), personally regarding this as his greatest professional legacy. Bob’s service to the Missouri Park and Recreation Association is unsurpassed. He served on the executive board for a total of 32 years, including two terms as President. He was a charter member of the National Recreation and Parks Association, later as its President, a Trustee, had 30 years of service to its Great Lakes Regional Council, and was the NRPA Delegate to the National Recreation Association of Japan.
His greatest loves after retirement were sailing on the Grace Bailey in Maine, traveling extensively, cooking for the annual fish fry at St. Gerard Majella for over 25 years, and singing with the SGM Choir. This article could go on at great length about Bob’s accomplishments, but this would be contrary to how he lived his life: with humility, grace, quiet pride, steadfastness, faith in action, and an unwavering duty to service, from his family to his church, his city, his country, and the world beyond.
In lieu of flowers, contributions made to Caritas Connections are greatly appreciated.
SERVICES: Funeral Mass at St. Gerard Majella Catholic Church (1971 Dougherty Ferry Rd., 63122) on Saturday, January 10, 2025. Visitation at 10:30 a.m.; Funeral at 11:30 a.m., Luncheon to follow at St. Gerard Majella.
I had the privilege of being hired by Bob in 1980 to work for St Louis Co. Parks and Rec fresh out of college. He was one of the kindest and caring bosses I ever had. I really enjoyed working for him and all the fun events created under his leadership. I’ve thought of him often over the years. Deepest condolences to the family.
Had the privilege of meeting Bob many times as a friend and colleague of his son, Mike.
Mike has been a friend and mentor, and will forever be one of the best people I’ve had the honor to know.
I’m grateful our friendship will be a small part of how Bob’s legacy will continue to live through many channels and people, simply by the way he walked the walk of a well-lived life.
Love to the Hall family in this time of loss, and nothing but gratitude for the gifts that Bob brought to all of us who were impacted by his wonderful life.