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.
My Heartfelt condolences to the Hall family , Prayers and blessings
Bob and Ruth were our neighbors on Big Bend in Crestwood. Great neighbors, lovely couple.
May his memory be a blessing.
An unforgettable friend. His wit and camaraderie were a constant presence in the choir at St. Gerard Majella Church in Kirkwood. We sang side by side in the bass section for years. I know he will continue singing for Him.
Denny, your comment is deeply touching, and the admiration Dad had for you was truly reciprocal. He loved the times spent with you in Choir, and fondest of all was the Christmases the three of us spent together. Much love and blessings to you, our dear old friend.
My prayers are with the Hall family. I had the privilege of visiting Ruth and Bob just a few weeks ago. It reminded me of how much the Halls have given to SGM over so many years. God bless to each of you.
Did not know him but I know Robert, Jr and he is a wonderful person and my condolences and prayers go out to the family may God give you continued strength in your time of healing
Ruth, Robert and Michael – my condolences for your loss. Bob was an incredible human being and Bobs passing is a loss to his many friends, SGM community and to his profession. He treated everyone with respect and friendship.
Bob was my first st “boss” in Kirkwood Parks and was my role model throughout my career in my career especially showing me through his actions what public service is with integrity.
Sorry I will miss the funeral but I am in the hospital and can’t get a day pass. Ruth, my thoughts and prayers are especially with you. Your friendship has helped Marcia and I through some tough times.
Bob will be missed by all who knew him. I enjoyed knowing Bob for many years as I worked for Parks and Rec. He was always very kind, supportive. and respectful to everyone.
With sincere condolences to you and your family
My condolences Bob’s family and friends at this difficult time, Bob will be greatly missed.
I met Bob several times over the years and always appreciated his warmth and kindness. He was instrumental along with Peter Sortino and others in the creation of the Metropolitan Parks and Recreation District (Great Rivers Greenway) and I loved hearing his stories of those early days before the vote in 2000. He was very proud of the legacy that was created and I am thankful that a regional system of greenways, parks and trails will live on for generations to come.