February 4, 1924 – October 31, 2025
Robert F. Renfro, age 101, of Iowa Falls, passed away Friday, October 31, 2025 at Scenic Manor. A memorial visitation will be held from 1-3 PM on Sunday, November 9, 2025 at Woodley Funeral Home and Crematory in Iowa Falls. A prayer service will follow visitation. He will be laid to rest at the Iowa Veterans Cemetery. Woodley Funeral Home and Crematory is caring for Dr. Renfro and his family.
Robert F. Renfro was born on February 4, 1924, to Donald McClellan and Grace Scripps (Beebee) Renfro in Carbondale, Illinois. He graduated from Sioux City Central in 1942. He enlisted in the US Army stationed in France and Germany as a medic during WW 11 and state-side during the Korean Conflict. Following active duty, he served with the Army Reserve obtaining the rank of Lieutenant Colonel.
Robert married Dorothy Elizabeth Adams on December 26, 1953 in Charleston, West Virginia. Following his education at Northwestern, he began his 35-year career in optometry in Macomb, Illinois. The family moved to Sioux City, Iowa in 1958. He was appointed to the Board of Examiners by Gov. Ray in the 1970’s. He was a member of the Heather Highlanders, Abu Bekr Shrine Chanters, ROJ and also belonged to several service and business organizations.
Following retirement, Robert and Dorothy traveled extensively, visiting all 7 continents. As a bagpiper, he played for special occasions including his 3 children’s weddings. He had the privilege of singing with the Chanters at London’s Royal Albert Hall. He took the Honor Flight to Washington, DC in 2008.
Robert and Dorothy moved to Iowa Falls and Cedar Ridge in October 2009. While living in Iowa Falls, he was involved in Kiwanis and Hyman-Peavey American Legion, serving a term as post commander. He was a dedicated caregiver to Dorothy as she struggled with Alzheimer’s. They attended the Congregational Church.
Robert enjoyed good books, competitive bridge, limericks, classical music, aged scotch, genealogy, photography, colorful sweaters and ice cream.
Robert Renfro is survived by his children, Robin (Jeff) Heinzeroth of Alden, Iowa, Tim (Gloria) Renfro of Rapid City, South Dakota, Alex (Richard) Bankers of Sioux Falls, South Dakota; 4 grandchildren; 2 great-granddaughters; brother in-law, Wm O’Neill; 3 nieces; 1 nephew, and several cousins. Robert was preceded in death by his wife, Dorothy in 2018; mother, Grace in 1933; his father and bonus mother, Donald and Mary Renfro, and his sister, Elizabeth O’Neill.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests expressions of sympathy be directed to Care Initiatives Hospice, Scenic Manor activities, Shriners Hospital for Children transportation fund or St. Jude’s.
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