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30 Comments

  1. Kenneth Gosnell
    November 5, 2013 @ 1:14 pm

    Bob was my little brother for 65+ years; as a small child I always felt responsible for him. He followed me around and looked up to me to watch out for him. In later years he was the one I went to for help and guidance, therefore, he then felt responsible for me. When he fell ill I again felt I needed to be there for him and tried to see him every day. Even in sickness he was always there for me. I asked Bobby what I could do for him and he said, “I know you already know Jesus, but please be baptized.” Bobby’s request was granted on Wednesday, October 23, 2013; I was baptized in the name of The Father, The Son and The Holy Spirit at Pomona Christian Church.

    I love my brother and I will miss him dearly.

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    • Don Green
      November 5, 2013 @ 8:52 pm

      I will never forget Bob as long as I live. Over 25 years ago we all went on a float trip, the river was high and the current was fast. Bob saved my life and my wife’s life.(Gail). Our canoe had capsized and we got stuck several times in the current. Both my wife and I were thoroughly exhausted and hanging to a tree limb. I knew it was over, because our strength was gone. I knew any moment we would lose our grip and we would drown. Bob crawled out on this small limb and got each of us to land. There is no doubt in my mind, that I and my wife would be dead today, if not for Bob saving us. Bob will forever be my Hero. Bob was one of the most humble, Christian people you will ever know. God Bless You Bob and your family. Don Green-Jacksonville ,Florida

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  2. Lois Caldwell
    November 5, 2013 @ 5:58 pm

    Cheryl and girls, We were so sorry to hear about Bob’s passing. You are all in our thoughts and prayers. We know he is in a better place. Denzil has early onset Alzheimer and it is hard for him to go to unfamiliar places and be around unfamiliar people. Again we will be praying for you and the family.

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  3. Petr and Natalya Kharitonov
    November 5, 2013 @ 6:14 pm

    We have known Robert Gosnell since 2001 year. He was a great person
    and a good God’s son .
    He helped us with our needs. Our children loved him like their grandfather.
    We will love and remember him forever.
    We missed him and we are so sorry for his wife Cheryl. God bless you and keep you in His hands.

    With love,
    The Kharitonov family

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  4. Carmen Gosnell
    November 5, 2013 @ 7:44 pm

    Bob was first a classmate , then a brother-in-law and lastly a trusted friend. Instead of wondering how we can get along without him I’m trying to be grateful for all the years he was part of our lives.

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  5. Joyce Melby
    November 6, 2013 @ 8:43 am

    I met Bob thru his sweet wife Cheryl. Bob was always there to help with anything that was needed. He always had a soft voice and a gentle way about him. I suppose he could get mad but I never saw that side of him.
    Bob will be truly missed by all who loved him and were his friend.

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  6. Marilyn Sords
    November 6, 2013 @ 9:05 am

    I will always remember Bob as a kind man. I was 11 years younger and one of many younger cousins. It never mattered whether I was 10 or 50 he never made me feel small. When he talked to me I always felt valued, he just had a way about him that put you at ease. A man like Bob Gosnell is very rare and will be greatly missed by anyone who ever knew him. He will always be remembered and kept in my heart.

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  7. Kathy Fewell
    November 6, 2013 @ 10:10 am

    I was 7 years old when my sister, Carmen, married into the Gosnell Family. I’ve always been treated as part of their extended family. Bob Gosnell and I both lived with Carmen and Ken the same summer and I began looking up to him then. Through all the years of family events, big, small, sad and happy, Bob was never changing always the same in his faith, his sense of humor and his sense of family. My heart breaks for the loved ones he left behind, but I can know without a doubt that he is laying his Crown filled with all the jewels representing his work here on earth at the feet of Jesus. Thank you Bobby for a life well lived.

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  8. Donald Gosnell
    November 6, 2013 @ 12:37 pm

    One of my earliest memories of Bob was that of a tow-headed toddler wanting to follow Kenneth and me wherever we went. I am afraid that we didn’t always welcome his company and did at times attempt to lose him. As time passed we became more tolerant of his company and enjoyed being together as brothers. Fortunately Bob had the good sense to not follow Kenneth and me in all of our activities as some could have been considered less than honorable. Later on Bob became quite proficient in taking what I considered junk and turning it into something useful. In one area he excelled and that was in the automotive field. I always looked forward to seeing what he had created when I came home on leave. Some creations were a little shaky but Bob never gave up. If there were problems he worked to fix them. Tenacity was definitely one of his strong points. At several points in our life, Bob was there when he was really needed. After mom’s death he knew what to do and that was of considerable comfort for us. He continued on with his support through dad’s death and beyond. Family was very important to him and we knew it. He has shown us a path to follow and for that we will always be eternally grateful. Bob, in our hearts and minds you will always be our brother that we dearly loved and will remember forever.

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  9. Donnie Daugherty
    November 6, 2013 @ 1:55 pm

    Cheryl, Tobie and Tessa I am so sorry to hear about Bob’s passing.You are in my thoughts and prayes.

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  10. Carlynn Dixon Welch
    November 6, 2013 @ 5:49 pm

    Cheryl, Tobie and Tessa, I am so sad to hear about Bob. I have many great memories of your family. I appreciate all the after church play dates and stops by the A&W! Prayers from Japan. Respectfully, Carlynn D. Welch and family.

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  11. Brenda Kimbrough
    November 6, 2013 @ 8:27 pm

    Cheryl, Tobie and Tess,
    I am so sorry about the loss of Bob. He was a very fine man. I remember after Charles passed away both of you came to the house. So many people had extended help but Bob didn’t ask. He just saw that my lawn needed to be trimmed and he got my weedeater and trim around everything. He was that kind of thoughtful person. He will be greatly missed by many.

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  12. Katie Andrews
    November 6, 2013 @ 8:50 pm

    Uncle Bob(my mom, Kendra Andrews’ uncle) has changed my life in many ways. The last two years he went to the lake with my cousins, brother, grandparents, and I for a summer trip. We all grew very close to him over these years, and he played a very big part in my getting to know Christ. When he found out he had cancer, his positive outlook on life never ceased to amaze me. He still was close to God, still spread God’s word, and was the same disciple of Christ he’d always been. His outlook on life amazed me, and made me want to see the world the way he did. Thanks to uncle Bob, I’ve grown closer with Christ, and I know he changed countless others lives for the better, too.

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  13. Protsenko Family
    November 7, 2013 @ 12:44 am

    Mrs. Gosnell, my family and I are glad that we met you and your husband Bob. Your Family is really special to us.We are so sad to hear about the passing of your husband Bob may the lord comfort you, our thoughts and prayers are with your family.

    Protsenko Family

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  14. Rhonda Pittman
    November 7, 2013 @ 6:16 am

    It was a shock to hear of Bob’s passing, but I know he is in a better place now. My heart and prayers go out to Cheryl and their family. May God give you comfort in this time Cheryl.

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  15. Carmen Matthews
    November 7, 2013 @ 6:31 am

    I am a nurse at Barnes and I have had the pleasure of taking care of Bob numerous times. He was one of the most grateful, positive and uplifting patients that I’ve ever cared for. Despite his chronic and noticeable pain, he would always have something kind and witty to say. I will never forget him and your wonderfully supportive family.
    Cheryl, Tobie and Tessa- he will forever be your best guardian angel!!!

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  16. Rhonda east
    November 7, 2013 @ 9:06 am

    Cheryl, my prayers go out to you and your girls. I know Bob is in heaven celebrating right now. real had some wonderful times during our lifetime. remember all the trips we took to alleys springs in the Camaro. when I think thank a bob, always think of is kindness. love you, Rhonda

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  17. Jack and Judy Mizer Barnes
    November 7, 2013 @ 9:23 am

    We are sorry for the loss of Bobby. He will always be Bobby, not Bob or Robert, to us. We want to thank Cheryl and all of the family for sharing his life with us. Bobby showed, everyone he came in contact with, the Grace he lived by. His every breath was used to guide, (not push) his Faith towards others. When we saw him last, at his home, he was more worried about us and our feelings, than his own. Trying to make us comfortable and unafraid of his situation. When we left him, we both mentioned his attitude. We have never been around anyone, who was as matter of fact, about his pending journey. Thank you, Gosnell Family, for letting us visit with you all, during a time when nobody could blame you for wanting that time for yourselves. (from Judy, I have been in love with Bobby since the 5th grade. Not boyfriend, girlfriend love. Buddy love. It was not a secret. In fact, when we said, goodbye that night a couple of weeks ago, Bobby told Jack and Jack let him know, he had lived with that knowledge, for 50 years. We laughed at him and then I said goodbye to Bobby. Tell our loved ones, up in Heaven, we love and miss them. There is no doubt in my mind or heart, you will see them. Thank you, Bobby, for being you.

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  18. Donita Barkley
    November 7, 2013 @ 9:53 am

    My sincere sympathies to Bob’s wife and family. He was a cousin of mine, although I don’t recall ever actually meeting him. After reading all the previous comments, I think it’s a great loss on my part that I didn’t know him. I did, however, know his parents and loved them alot. My paternal grandmother was Esther Harrod Barkley, a sister of great aunt Edith Harrod Smotherman.

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  19. Bobbie and Shirley Goodman
    November 7, 2013 @ 3:45 pm

    Our thoughts and prayers go out to you. Bob was a wonderful person. He was such an example of how we should live our lives. He will be greatly missed. We are so glad we stopped to see you guys on our way home.

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  20. Jeannie Imhoff
    November 7, 2013 @ 4:53 pm

    Although I never met Bob, I know by reading everyone’s condolences and hearing their stories regarding him that he was a great Christian man who will be dearly missed. I have been blessed in the reading of all the entries. I am sorry for your loss. Cheryl, our Bible study group has kept you and Bob and family in our prayers and I just want to let you know we will continue in these upcoming months to lift you up to our Lord while you grieve the loss of your husband and father to Tobie and Tessa! Be there for each other and please stay in touch. Love you sister.

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  21. Connie Thompson
    November 7, 2013 @ 7:22 pm

    I had the great fortune of being Uncle Bob’s first niece. Back then, that earned me a shot-gun seat in whatever hot rod car he was driving. I loved when he would drive fast on the hilly roads so I would lose my stomach.

    All of his life, his easy-going manner and good sense of humor paired with his unwavering faith and dedication to family were always there to be looked up to and learned from. His energy level could wear out even the youngest members of the family. I am very glad that my daughters, Anna and Emily, had the chance to get to know Bob and spend time with him. He was like another grandfather to them. They thought he was pretty cool when he taught them how to stand on your head.

    I’m thankful for the many days spent on the farm during my childhood with my family. Uncle Bob was a big part of that and will always be in my heart.

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  22. Brian, Laura, Jude, and Layla
    November 7, 2013 @ 9:53 pm

    Thinking of Uncle Bob immediately evokes memories of the times on the farm; riding on the tractor with him, watching him weld something in the garage, talking to him about some random thing as he lets us kids through the gate on our way to the field to play. These fond childhood memories are a fine compliment to the inspiration he provided as I grew older. His kindness, his willingness to listen, and his enthusiasm to help; Uncle Bob embodied these ideals so much that he brightened everyone’s lives around him…and made you want to do the same. His faith was the strongest (the reason he was the only choice to say grace at our wedding), his handshake was the firmest, and his smile the most sincere. I am a better man for knowing him, and the world is a better place for having him.

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  23. Gordon Brown
    November 7, 2013 @ 10:20 pm

    Bob was my older cousin by 2 1/2 years. As a young person I looked up to and followed him in many ways. As an adult there was brief conversation that changed my way of looking at life more than anything else. Bob’s mother Juanita passed in 1991, there a large celebration of her life and service to her community. When my own father passed in 1996 there was a very similar outpouring. I commented to Bob on the similarity of response to the passing of his mother and my father each had worked tirelessly to help others. Bob’s response was “yes makes you wonder how we be remembered” This changed the way I live and deal with others. I am forever thankful to Bob for helping me be a better person. I will miss him.

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  24. Carol Benzen
    November 8, 2013 @ 1:30 pm

    Being an only sister with three brothers might have been worse had it not been for my youngest brother, Bobby. He was so cute everyone loved him, and it was hard to stay mad at him. He and I were equally as ease playing trucks one day and dolls the next. There is the story of him as a preschooler walking almost five miles to town to buy me a new balloon because he had accidentally busted mine. He managed to walk almost the whole distance before he was stopped and was asked where he was going. Mom came to get him and let him buy me a new balloon. I do not remember the incident, probably because I still had a balloon. I do not think Bobby ever lost this deep sense of responsibility, and caring. I know that my brother was Christ-like, and like Christ, my brother “went about doing good.” Bobby was a rare individual who gave of himself unsparingly, and always took time to do the right thing, never just the convenient thing. He showed all of us how to live a good life, and he showed his family how to gloriously enter into the next life. Like Mom and Dad’s lives, Bobby’s life will be a “tough act” to follow. May we all rise to this high standard.

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  25. terry & Judi Sater
    November 8, 2013 @ 8:15 pm

    Judi & I are twice blessed, first in having Tessa come into our lives and our family and secondly in coming to know the whole Gosnell family. Kindness, generosity and faith are roots that run deep. We cherish our times together at Chris and Tessa’s home. There is no doubt Bob is with God. The last time I saw him in St. Louis, I asked him to put in a good word for us. His deep unwavering faith has been an inspiration to all . Our sincere sympathy to all the Gosnell family. Terry & Judi

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  26. Shannon Barkley Goldberg
    November 9, 2013 @ 3:13 pm

    I am extending my condolences to the family of Bobby Gosnell. His grandmother, Blanche, was my moms sister. She was a very special aunt. I have many memories of the family.

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  27. Leah Morris
    November 12, 2013 @ 9:26 pm

    Being neighbors of Aaron and Tobie the last eight years, my husband Rob and I (and our kids) have had the privilege of getting to know Bob during his regular visits with his precious daughter and her family. Bob emulated a Christ-like life with so much spunk and spirit! He boldy shared his faith and excitement for the Lord with all of the folks on our street, regardless of knowing whether we loved Jesus already or not! His joy was contagious… Bob was the real deal! He modeled such a sweet father’s heart towards his daughter…He typically had home projects on his radar during his stays, desiring to bless and serve her and her family. He seemed especially talented as a handyman. I’ll always remember the time he personally came to my rescue, all while I was mostly a stranger to him. A pipe under my sink had randomly burst, instantly flooding my kitchen! Bob, (with Tobie) being the only man home on our street during that afternoon, ran to my home, took the direct hit of that outpouring water to the face, and brought my crisis to a manageable halt. He instantly gained “hero” status in my heart that day! It saddens our family to think we won’t see Bob visiting two houses down anymore…and we are especially heart broken for our friends he has left behind. We know Who he is with, and that Bob is happier today than words can describe. I look forward to seeing his big smile again… Till then, he will be sweetly remembered and greatly missed…

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  28. Debbie Wake
    November 13, 2013 @ 9:34 pm

    Cheryl, Tessa, and Toby,Thinking of you and wishing you peace at this difficult time.. Bob was so faithful to serve the lord. I remember Bob teaching the kids at First Baptist. He always had a kind word and a smile . May God’s Love be your strength and comfort. Thoughts and prayers are with you. sincerely, Larry and Debbie Wake

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  29. rick bell
    November 14, 2013 @ 12:37 pm

    i am sorry for your lost ,i know what going thru ,and it is hard, bob was a good guy and always seem to be up beat about things. just try to think about the good times you guys had together, it seems to help me.i do not think you ever get over things like this you just get were you can carry it round with you.

    love you guys
    rick

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