Robert M. Rich, age 87 of Joplin, Mo., passed away on Tuesday, October 23, 2018 at Freeman Hospital following an illness.

Robert was born on October 2, 1931 in Clarksville, Tn. Robert served his country as part of the U.S. Army, following his service, Robert moved to the area from Westminster, Ca. in 1969. He worked for Stanley & Rusk Plumbing for many years before retiring in 1988. He was a lifetime member of the Local 178 Plumbers and Pipefitters Union.

He married Martha Sue Ledbetter in 1951, they divorced in 1978, she preceded him in death in 1990. Robert then married Marie Gregory Bell on July 16, 1985, she survives. Additional survivors include one son, Mark Rich of Grove, Ok.; two step-sons, Duane Bell of Bull Shoals, Ar., Jamie Bell of Joplin; one step-daughter, Patty Tate of Bull Shoals, Ar.; one sister, Bessie Lou Parker of Clarksville, Tn.; ten grandchildren and several great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his son Mike Rich.

A memorial service has been scheduled for 6:00 p.m. Monday, October 29, 2018 at the Mason-Woodard Chapel.

The family will receive friends during a time of visitation from 5 – 6 p.m. Monday.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Mason-Woodard Mortuary & Crematory.