Robert (Bob) Hamilton, 59 peacefully passed away at home in Grinnell, Iowa on Sunday, February 25, 2024 after a battle with cancer.

Farewell, my friends,

This letter may come as a surprise to many of you, and if so, I want you to know that it does not diminish the importance of our friendship. I am tremendously appreciative of the times we spent together. You have filled my life with stimulating conversation and a lot of laughter.

There have been many ups and downs this year and I want to recognize that I couldn't have gotten through it without the love and support of my wife and family. I am also deeply grateful for the kindness, generosity, support and love so freely given by our friends.

Rachel and I packed a lot into twenty-five years of marriage – travel, hosting our fabulous international students, enjoying music and cheering on the Hawks to name a few. Most importantly, we raised an intelligent, confident, outgoing, generous, Hawkeye-devoted, loving son who will carry the best of the Hamilton legacy. I had the kind of life some people only dream of. I have been very fortunate.

Whether you knew me as Bob, or Davis' dad, Rachel's husband, Dave's son (The Fox), the bartender, the insurance guy, maybe as the Hamilton Travel agent, chances are our paths crossed multiple times. Perhaps I poured you a drink at Lonnski's or we cheered at the same sporting event. Iowa born and bred, I may have known you from my early years in Grinnell or Mediapolis or during my time in Burlington, Malcom, or finally, back in Grinnell. We likely talked about current events, politics, travel, food and wine, or whatever seemed interesting that day.

Next time you cheer for the Hawks, open a bottle of beer, sip a glass of red wine, drink a cup of strong coffee, play a hand of poker, grill a prime cut of meat, enjoy a sea salt caramel or taste a piece of fine cheese, I hope you take a brief moment to think of me and the fun we had together.

I loved every minute. Cheers!

Bob

Bob is survived by his wife of 25 years, Rachel Bly; son, Davis; sister, Margaret Kersbergen (Dave); brother, David Hamilton (Belen); mother-in-law, Kathryn Bly; sister-in-law Sarah Bly; his nieces and nephews Jacob, Kyle, Sara, Sonia and Django; and countless cousins, family members, international host students and friends. He was preceded in death by his father, David Hamilton and mother, Joyce Hamilton. He is survived by a cat, Cloudy and pre-deceased by cats Stephen, Lizzie and Trouble.

Visitation and celebration of life will be Saturday, March 2nd. Visitation, 12:30-3 pm at Smith Funeral Home in Grinnell, please join us to celebrate his life at Grinnell Craft Brewhouse from 3-5 pm. The family encourages Hawkeye attire.

If desired, memorial contributions in memory of Bob may be designated to Iowa Valley Community College Food Pantry (if giving electronically, please list "food pantry" in designation box) or to an organization of your choice that you feel encompasses Bob. Cards and memorials may be mailed in care of Smith Funeral Home, PO Box 368, Grinnell, IA 50112.