Robert Kenneth Best

Robert (Bob) Kenneth Best, a cherished father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully at his home in Bryan, Texas, surrounded by family while enjoying a Friday night football game. Born on April 15, 1930, in Franklin, Texas, Bob lived a full and vibrant life that spanned 96 years, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, unforgettable memories and a strong Faith in God. The son of Robert M. Best and Mittie McNutt Best, Bob was raised on a working farm, where he developed a lifelong appreciation for nature and a love for animals, which he shared with others. This rural upbringing instilled in him a strong work ethic and a passion for the outdoors, which he carried throughout his life. Bob’s childhood and adolescence were marked by the joy of family and the challenges of farm life, experiences that shaped his character and fueled his adventurous spirit. After graduating from Franklin High School in 1948, Bob enlisted into the United States Air Force in 1950. He served his country with honor, stationed on the Aleutian Islands in Anchorage, Alaska, before transferring to Roswell, New Mexico, until his discharge in 1954. During his service, he contributed to the nation's defense by working at the NAS-CC Naval Air Station in Corpus Christi, wiring military airplanes. Bob pursued higher education at Texas A&M University, where he earned a degree in Industrial Engineering in 1959. His professional journey began with IBM in Houston, Texas, where he worked as a computer technician, moving ti Bryan in 1980. Over a career spanning 31 years, Robert's dedication and expertise led to a successful tenure, retiring in 1990 after achieving numerous accomplishments & contributions to his community. So much so that the Mayor of Bryan proclaimed June 1st, 1990 as Robert K. Best day. In June 1953, Bob married the love of his life, Wanda (Tooker) L. Williams, embarking on a marriage that lasted 44 wonderful years. Together, they created a loving home filled with laughter and joy, raising three children: Dawn, Keren, and Mark. Though Wanda passed away in 1997, Bob's devotion to her was unwavering, as he chose to honor their love by never remarrying during the 29 years that followed. Bob was a man of many talents and passions. Known for his quick wit and warm smile, he had an uncanny ability to make everyone feel welcome and valued. His sense of humor was legendary, the "Master of Booby-traps", often pulling pranks (from stuffed man ib deer stand to snakes ib a jar or toy rat on the bbq pit) to keep those around him on their toes.m & lighten the mood. Bob loved hunting/fishing & always eager to share his knowledge with others, no matter the subject. His skills in woodworking were remarkable, crafting furniture and other items that his family cherishes to this day. He loved gardening, could grow anything & always shared with anyone interested or in need of fresh vegetables & fruit. Active in his community, Bob was a proud member of Northview Baptist Church of Bryan, Texas. His strong faith and generosity extended beyond his home & congregation, touching countless lives through acts of kindness and support. He always had a special prayer to say & reminded us of stories from the Bible for our everyday life. Robert is survived by his daughters, Dawn Best and Keren George; his son, Mark Best (Helen); his grandchildren, Melissa Guest (James), Denise Schiller (Kurt), and Dylan Best; and great-grandchildren Kai, Jasper, and Loma Guest, Kayla and Annabel Schiller, and Isla Best. He also leaves behind his beloved little sister, Carole Daugherty, and numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family members. Bob was preceded in death by his wife, Wanda, his parents, two brothers, three sisters, and many other treasured family members. In honoring Robert's memory, the family requests that donations be made to Still Creek Ranch, Brazos Valley Hospice or Brazos Valley Food Bank in lieu of flowers. Robert Kenneth Best's life was a testament to love, faith, resilience, and the joy of family. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him, but his spirit will live on in the hearts of those he touched. Services will all be held at Memorial Funeral Chapel at 1515 S. College Ave , Bryan, Tx 77801 Viewing will be held on Thursday, Sept. 24th in the Chapel @ 5-7pm and services will be on Friday, Sept. 25 @ 10am.