Robert Linder

Robert L. Linder (Bob) passed away March 25, 2023 in Abilene, Texas. He was 91 years old. A Celebration of his life will be held Saturday, April 29, 2023 at 11:00 AM in the Elmwood Funeral Chapel at 5750 Highway 277 South.

Bob was born December 15, 1931 to William and Beulah Linder in Las Cruces, New Mexico. His family moved to Oklahoma City where he was raised until he graduated from high school. He was a very talented drummer and while in high school, he played music with a local band called Robert and the "Rythmaires." Bob served in the United States Army's 45th Division from Oklahoma during the Korean war and was also a drummer for the Army band, and performed throughout Japan, where he was stationed for a while. On June 9, 1952 Bob was honorably discharged from the Army and returned to Oklahoma to attend Central State College in Edmond, Oklahoma. While in college, Bob met Beverly Ann Eldridge and the two were married in November of 1953. The couple had 4 children and raised them in Abilene and they shared a lovely life together until Beverly's untimely death in 1990. Bob owned and operated X-Ray Enterprises, a local and regional Abilene business for 36 years, where he sold X-ray equipment and supplies to hospitals, clinics and Doctor's offices. While on a trip to Washington in 1991, Bob met Gerri MacKenzie. The two fell in love and were married March 26, 1999. They shared a great life together and enjoyed traveling, their combined family and many adventures for 24 years. They were members of Southwest Park Baptist Church, where Bob was a Deacon and loved the Lord with all his heart. Bob was also a member of the VFW, a local Bass Club and the Channel Masters. He enjoyed dancing, music, traveling, fishing, camping and the great outdoors. He had a quick witt, a kind heart, a joyful spirit and he never knew a stranger. Bob dearly loved his wife, Gerri; his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents; his wife Beverly Linder; a brother, Gary and two sisters, Ramah and Lavone.

Bob is survived by his wife, Gerri Linder; his children Patti Stivers (Gary Musgrave), Robin Hitch, Lisa Slay (Dean Slay), Steven Linder, and Kimberly Hansen (Derek Hansen); 11 grandchildren; 18 great grandchildren; his fur baby, Missie, and numerous nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, the family has gratefully asked that donations be sent to Southwest Park Baptist Church.