Robert (Bob) Eli Christian

Robert (Bob) Eli Christian, 73, passed away Tuesday, Aug. 4, 2020 at Maplewood Alzheimer’s Special Care Center in Springfield, Missouri.

Bob was born Feb. 22, 1947 to Robert U. and Blanch (Sliger) Christian in Poplar Bluff, Missouri. After graduation from Poplar Bluff High School, Bob moved to Ann Arbor, Michigan and attended St. Joseph’s Mercy Hospital for radiology technician training. After receiving his certification Bob moved back to Poplar Bluff and began working for Doctor’s Regional Medical Center. Soon after buying his first new car he met Diane Foust. They married in 1969 and welcomed their first son, Wesley, in 1970. While employed at DRMC Bob commuted to Arkansas State University in Jonesboro where he graduated with a Business Administration degree. Through his connections with DRMC he was asked to be the Assistant Clinic Administrator for the newly constructed Kneibert Clinic. In 1977 they welcomed their second son, Corey. After a few years as the Assistant Administrator he was promoted to Clinic Administrator, where he maintained that position until his retirement in 2016. Shortly after he retired, he was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s.

Bob was very active in the community he loved. He was a past-president of the Poplar Bluff Chamber of Commerce, past-president of the regional Medical Group Management Association, a member of the Jaycees, Lions Club, Habitat for Humanity, and many other community organizations. He took great pride in helping to improve the community. He had a big heart and was selfless in his life.

Bob had the gift of conversation. He never knew a stranger and made every effort to make everyone feel welcomed. He had an engaging demeanor and a smile that was contagious. The only activity he enjoyed more than good conversation was GOLF. Bob traveled frequently for golf trips with friends. If Bob was nowhere to be found, he was probably on the golf course.

He is survived by his wife, Diane; sons, Dr. Wesley (Dr. Nikki) Christian, Corey (Amber) Christian; grandchildren, Ethen, Caden, Laven, Henry, William and Toby, sister, Carolyn (Win) Williams; and niece, Christa McGuire (Henry}. He was preceded in death by his parents.

The visitation will be from 4 to 6 p.m. Monday, Aug. 10, 2020 at the First Baptist Church in Poplar Bluff. The funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday also at the First Baptist Church with officiating by Rev. Brandon Spain. Burial will be in the Woodlawn section of the Poplar Bluff City Cemetery. ALL SERVICES REQUIRE A FACE COVERING AND SOCIAL DISTANCING WHEN POSSIBLE.

Memorial contributions may be made to Leukemia and Lymphoma Society

Web: http://www.donate.lls.org.

Cotrell Funeral Service is honored to serve the family of Robert E. ‘Bob’ Christian.