Bob Etter

(From Parker Mortuary)

James Robert “Bob” Etter, age 88, Webb City, passed away peacefully on Saturday, January 28, 2023 at his home.

Bob was born May 6, 1934 in Paducah, Texas, son of the late A.R. Etter and Neely (Gibson) Etter. He grew up in Texas and graduated from Wichita Falls High School and then Texas Tech University with a Bachelor of Arts in Accounting.

Bob relocated to Joplin in 1962 where he began his career in the farm equipment industry with Minneapolis-Moline. It was at this time he was introduced to the love of his life, Mary Lee Howard.

Bob and Mary were united in marriage on December 21, 1963. The couple proved to be a great team. In 1970, they opened Pratt Agri Service, their first of numerous farm implement businesses across the state of Kansas. Bob and Mary witnessed their business plan grow in the towns of Iola, Dodge City, and Lubbock, Texas.

In 1984, the couple returned to Joplin. Bob and Mary shared a love for the game of golf. They forged numerous friendships during their residencies at Briarbrook and Loma Linda Country Clubs. Following their passion, in 1986, Bob and Mary introduced the Four States to Suburban Golf, the area’s first ever off course retail golf equipment pro shop.

In the spring of 2000, Bob dedicated his life to caring for his beloved wife Mary after she fell victim to a stroke. Bob spent the next 16 years serving as Mary’s caretaker. Bob was a devoted Christian, husband, father, grandfather and son who loved his family.

In addition to his parents, Bob lost his cherished wife Mary Etter, on September 21, 2016. He was also preceded in death by his brother, Richard N. Etter.

Survivors include his son, Mark Etter of Joplin; grandson Alexander James Etter of Joplin; sister Alice K. Hirst or Harlingen, Texas; sister-in-law Roberta Etter of The Woodlands, Texas; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Parker Mortuary with burial of his ashes to be later this spring in Republic, Missouri.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to: MSSU GOLF in care of Missouri Southern foundation at 3950 E. Newman Road, Joplin, MO. 64801.