Robert “Bob” Loch Jr.
Robert “Bob” Loch Jr.
Robert “Bob” Loch Jr.
1943-2026
Robert “Bob” Loch Jr., 82, St. Joseph, Missouri, a stoic pillar of strength and an embodiment of integrity, passed away Tuesday, September 1, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.
He was born on October 25, 1943, in Ravenwood, Missouri. Bob was the cherished son of Robert Loch Sr. and Betty (Butler) Loch. Growing up alongside his brother, James William “Bill” Loch, Bob’s early life was rooted deeply in family values and hard work, lessons he carried through his whole life.
Bob found his lifelong partner in Mildred “Millie” Cockrill, and they united in marriage on August 1, 1965. Together, they celebrated six decades of love, commitment, and shared dreams. Millie was not only his wife but his true partner in every sense, the light that continuously brightened his life’s journey. Their loving union brought forth a son, Robert Loch III, affectionately known as Rob, who only further enriched Bob’s life.
A proud graduate of Northwest Missouri State University, Bob established a legacy through his extensive professional career. He was a cornerstone of Loch Sands & Construction Company, ascending from Corporate Secretary to President, exemplifying leadership and commitment to his craft. His nearly unparalleled industry experience extended to pivotal roles across several associations. Bob invested thirty memorable years on the board of Nodaway Valley Bank and served as President of both the Associated General Contractors of Missouri and the Board of Regents at Northwest Missouri State University. He was as well, part of the MO Army National Guard.
Bob’s working life was complemented by his dedication to organizations that mirrored his values, including the First Christian Church and a fifty-year commitment to the Masonic Lodge and Moila Temple. He became a mainstay within the civic spheres as a long-time board member of the Heavy Constructors Association of Greater Kansas City and the Maryville Industrial Development Co.
Away from the conferences and construction sites, Bob pursued his love for the outdoors with annual fishing trips to Canada. Initially a bonding experience with his son, these excursions later included friends and family, widening the circle of his joy. Bob adored his family wholeheartedly, relishing the time spent with them, particularly his son Rob, daughter-in-law Casey (the daughter he never had), and grandsons Robert Colman Loch and James Quinton Loch.
The Lake of the Ozarks held a special place in his heart, from his youth to his reflective years spent at his condo post-retirement. Taking his boat out on the lake, he cherished the view and the peace it offered. Together with Millie, Bob created lasting memories with his grandsons through various trips, ensuring a legacy of love and shared experiences.
Robert Loch Jr.’s life was a testament to the impact one person can make through genuine devotion to work, community, and above all, family. His wisdom and warmth will be profoundly missed, as he was, indeed, a real man in every sense of the word.
Farewell Services and Public Livestream 1:00 p.m. Friday, September 11, Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory. Inurnment Memorial Park Cemetery. The family will gather with friends 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Thursday, September 10, Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory. The family suggests memorial contributions to Noyes Home. Online guest book and obituary at www.meierhoffer.com.
