Robert Edward Apple

Robert Edward Apple, 87 of Dardanelle passed away peacefully on February 16 after a lengthy illness. He was born in Dardanelle on June 5, 1925 to the late Harrison and Sadie Clark Apple. He was a graduate of Dardanelle High School, attended Arkansas Tech and received a Bachelor's and Master's degree from the University of Arkansas. He joined the Marines during World War II serving with the 1st Marine Division in the South Pacific. He later taught agriculture, chemistry, and sciences for 18 years in High Schools and College in Arkansas and Florida. He has been a distinguished leader in conservation all his adult life serving as President and Executive Director of the Arkansas Wildlife Federation; he was the South Central Regional Executive with the National Wildlife Federation for 20 years. After retirement he resumed management of the family farm raising corn, soybeans, wheat and cattle and continued his work in conservation. Included in his many endeavors and awards are: Conservationist of the Year for Arkansas Wildlife Federation: Arkansas Outdoor Hall of Fame Inductee: Member of Conservation Committees for Governors' Rockefeller, Bumpers and Clinton: Instrumental in environmental battles and projects such as saving the Buffalo River, Cache River and Crooked Creek. He was preceded in death by his parents and one sister, Margaret. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Ramona, one son, Dr. Robert E. Apple, Jr. and wife Jayne, of Baton Rouge, La., one daughter Robin Apple of Maumelle, two grandsons, Robby and Brian Apple, two nieces and one nephew. He was an avid hunter, woodworker and antique car restorer. The funeral will be held at 2 p.m., Wednesday, in Dardanelle at the Cornwell Funeral home with graveside services to follow. Open visitation will also be held at the Cornwell Funeral Home from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Tuesday. In lieu of flowers, you may make donations to the Sierra Club, The Nature Conservancy or the World Wildlife Fund, Yell County Wildlife Federation and Arkansas Wildlife Federation. Arrangements by Cornwell Funeral Home in Dardanelle. Online Guest Book and Condolences at www.cornwellfuneralhomes.com.