Robert James Fencl

Robert J. Fencl, 70, of Waterloo, passed away on Saturday, September 5, 2026.

Bob was born on February 17, 1956, in Waterloo, to Raymond and Betty (Rolfes) Fencl. After graduating from Waterloo West High School, he joined the United States Navy.

Bob proudly served in the U.S. Navy from 1974 until 1978. During the fall of Saigon, he helped feed Vietnamese refugees aboard the carrier USS Midway. Following his Navy service, he worked for defense munitions contractor Chamberlain Manufacturing and later as an Engineer for John Deere.

In 2008, Bob was in an accident that left him paralyzed and unable to walk. He adapted to a new way of life without letting his injuries define him.

Bob was a respected member of Black Hawk County’s veteran community. A determined athlete, he earned numerous medals at the National Veterans Wheelchair Games and Military Olympics. He also achieved a black belt in Shotokan karate. Bob enjoyed the outdoors, including annual hunting trips with ITC Outdoors and fishing with (FISHING GROUP NAME). He especially valued his time with the Coffee and Camaraderie group and the many veterans organizations he belonged to.

He is preceded in death by his parents.

Bob is survived by his brothers, Richard, and Randall (Tamara) Fencl, both of Waterloo; sisters, Judy (Michael) Roethler and Colleen (Mike) Stafford, both of Cedar Falls and Barbara Fencl of Waterloo; treasured friend, Bruce (Nadine) Wilson; and many nieces and nephews.

Visitation and Funeral Service: Family to receive friends from (TIME) to (TIME) on Saturday, September 19, 2026, at Locke at Tower Park, 4140 Kimball Ave, Waterloo. Funeral Service at (TIME). Inurnment to follow at Mt. Olivet Catholic Cemetery with military honors provided by the United States Navy and American Legion Becker Chapman Post.

Memorial Contributions may be directed to the Grout Museum.

Locke at Tower Park is serving the family. Please visit lockefuneralservices.com to offer your condolences.