Robert John "Bob" Batula, age 79, of Red Oak, Iowa, passed away Tuesday, May 9, 2023, at the Montgomery County Memorial Hospital. Bob was born May 16, 1943, in San Luis Obispo, California, the son of Thomas and Sally (Martinez) Batula. He was raised in California and graduated from Monterey High School. He served in the United States Air Force from 1962-1966. He came to Minden, Iowa, after his time in the service and met Olene Overgaard. They were married July 20, 1968, in Minden, Iowa. They moved to California where they lived until moving to Red Oak, Iowa, five years ago after retirement. Over the years, Bob had a 28 ½-year career with the United States Postal Service as a mail clerk and then drove a shuttle for several years. He enjoyed playing softball, bowling, and watching all sports, especially the Giants, Warriors, and 49ers. He was a loving husband, a great dad, and an awesome grandfather.

Preceding him in death were his parents: Thomas and Sally Batula; step-mother: Margarett Batula; his brother: Tommy Batula; step-brother: Alan Sarraga; and son: Joaquin Martinez Batula. Surviving relatives include his wife: Olene Batula of Red Oak, IA; Son: Juan Batula of Underwood, IA; daughter: Joaquina Batula of Santa Clara, CA; grandchildren: Sara Olson and husband Shane Knueth of Shelbyville, MI; Isabella Batula of San Francisco, CA; and Matea Batula of Underwood, IA; step-sister: Gloria Noda and husband Newell of Moraga, CA; brother-in-law: Terry Overgaard and wife Cheryl of Minden, IA; step-sister-in-law: Joy Sarraga of Haywood, CA; and many other relatives and friends.

A graveside celebration of life service with military honors will be held 11 AM Monday, May 15, 2023 at the Minden, Iowa Cemetery. A luncheon will be served at the American Legion Hall after the service.

Nelson-Boylan-LeRette Funeral Chapel, of Red Oak, Iowa, is in charge of arrangements.