Robert “Bob” Byersdorfer, age 74 of Fairbank, passed away on Tuesday, December 23, 2025 at the Cedar Valley Hospice Home in Waterloo. He was born December 27, 1950 in Oelwein the son of Richard and Lucille (Schomer) Byersdorfer. Bob grew up on the family farm south of Fairbank and attended Triumph Rural School through eighth grade before graduating from Jesup Community Schools in 1968.
After high school, Bob was drafted into the United States Army, where he spent most of his service in Alaska. Upon returning home, he worked for Gulf States Plastic in Oelwein before later retiring from John Deere after 19 years of service.
On June 9, 1979, Bob married Pam Pitlik of Mount Vernon and together they made their home south of Fairbank, raising their three sons. Bob enjoyed working and playing on the farm and spending time with his family, especially in the timber along the river. He also loved mowing the lawn and tinkering with anything outdoors. Bob was a member of the Fairbank American Legion and a longtime member of the Fairbank Knights of Columbus. He served on the Wapsie Valley Board of Education and was a lifelong member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, where he was an active member of the choir.
Above all, Bob was a loving husband, father and grandfather. He was extremely proud of his family and his loss will be deeply felt by all who knew him.
Survived by: his wife; Pam, three sons; Adam (Amanda), Benjamin and Caleb (Rosanna) seven grandchildren; Evan, Braden, Jacob, Ilse, Anna Lena, Edgar and Freddie, one brother; Richard (Donna) Byersdorfer Jr. one brother-in-law; Greg (Joyce) Pitlik, one sister-in-law; Andi Covington (Wayne) along with several nieces and nephews.
Preceded in death by: his parents, father and mother-in-law; Merrill and Harriet Pitlik
Visitation: 4:00-7:00 PM Monday December 29th at Woods Funeral Home with a 7:00 PM Knights of Columbus Rosary.
Funeral Services: 10:30 AM Tuesday December 30th at Woods Funeral Home.
Military Rites: Fairbank American Legion Fortsch-Duffy Post 552
Interment: Immaculate Conception Cemetery
Memorials: to the family for later designation
Lunch will be served at the Fairbank American Legion following the service.
Condolences for Robert John Byersdorfer
Pam and family, we are heartbroken to hear about Bob’s passing. He was a dear friend and we remember so many great times together. Our thoughts and prayers for all of you. Hugs, Larry and Colleen Thomas
Pam and family, so sorry for your loss.
Pam and boys- I am so sorry for your loss. I have such fond memories of tubing, ragbrai, and other shenanigans with Bob and Adam. I am thinking of you all during this difficult season.
We are deeply saddened to learn of Bob’s passing. Our heartfelt sympathies are with you Pam, Adam, Ben, Caleb and families. Bob was very devoted to his families and one of the world’s truly good persons. We have great memories of the long past few times we could be with Pam and Bob. May he rest in peace.