Robert E. Schatz

Robert E. Schatz, age 95, of Rogers, died Feb. 15, 2013, at his home. He was born in Jones County, Iowa, on May 30, 1917, to the late E. August and Grace (Behrends) Schatz. Bob was a United States Army veteran of World War II, serving in the 34th Infantry division, who were some of the first troops dispatched at the declaration of the war. His battalion landed in northern Africa in 1942 and over the next two-and-a-half years he traveled north to Italy, where he was part of the forces that liberated Rome. The troops continued fighting to the Swiss border. Bob saw combat as a foot soldier, but he also was a radio operator and enjoyed his ability to drive a GP (jeep). When the war ended, Bob returned home on a ship full of Italian war brides. Being the gentleman he was, he slept on the deck of the ship the entire trip to allow room for the women that other soldiers were bringing home. After returning home, he married Phyllis Pickett in October of 1952, and worked for over 37 years as a technical service manager for the National Cash Register Company. His position there took him through several states, including Minnesota, Illinois, Michigan, Nebraska and Iowa. Bob and Phyllis moved to Rogers in 1983 to retire. Unable to stay still, Bob went to work at the Wal-Mart Jewelry Warehouse until illness took its toll on his body. Until his death, Bob was a member of Christ the King Lutheran Church. Survivors include his wife of over 60 years, Phyllis Schatz; sons, Eric Schatz and wife Mary of Marquette, Mich., David Schatz of Joplin, Mo.; brothers, Ernest Schatz of Cary, Ill., Lester Schatz of Myrtle Beach, S.C.; sister, Clara Tsuris of Monticello, Iowa; grandchildren, Elena Schatz, Monica Schatz, Angela Linski, Sebastian Schatz, Scarlett Schatz; four great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Wilford, Willard and Vernon Schatz; and sister, H. Marie Schatz. Visitation will be 5 to 7 p.m. on Monday, Feb. 18, 2013, at Rollins Funeral Home in Rogers. Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. on Tuesday at Christ the King Lutheran Church in Bentonville, officiated by Pastor Stacy Seger. Burial will be in Monticello, Iowa, at a later date. Memorials, in lieu of flowers, may be made to Christ the King Lutheran Church, 406 W Central Ave., Bentonville, 72712; or to Circle of Life Hospice, 901 Jones Road, Springdale, 72764. Arrangements are by Rollins Funeral Home of Rogers. www.rollinsfuneral.com.