Robert Follette Sturm

Robert Follette Sturm, 84, Cedar Falls, died Friday, October 2, 2026.

Bob was born on November 12, 1934 at Sartori Hospital to the late Albert and Marian (Ash) Sturm. He grew up in the family home on Clay Street with his parents and older brothers, Don and Bill. Bob graduated from Cedar Falls High School in 1959 and went on to attend Gate Business College. During his early years, he worked as a service station attendant, and later for Chamberlain Corp., Rath Packing and several tool & die shops before gaining union employment with John Deere in 1965. In 1966, Bob enlisted with the US Army and honorably served as a Senior Medical Specialist for two years. In 1972, he earned his Associate in Applied Science Degree in Mechanical Technology from Hawkeye Tech and continued his career with John Deere in the Product Engineering Center retiring in 1997 after 32 years of service.

Bob always enjoyed exercising, especially bicycling and walking. He had a lifelong love of cats, especially his furbaby, Love Bug.

Bob is survived by his beloved wife of 23 years, Maryl Anne (Skow) Sturm; son, David Sturm of Ashville, NC; and extended family and friends. He is preceded in death by his daughter, Susan Kay; and brothers Don and Bill.

The Celebration of Bob’s Life will be at 10:00 AM on Friday, October 9, 2026 at Dahl-Van Hove-Schoof Funeral Home. Visitation will be from 9:00 AM until the time of service at the funeral home on Friday. Burial will be at Fairview Cemetery.

Memorials may be directed to the Cedar Bend Humane Society.