Robert Douglas Zink

Robert Douglas Zink, 76, of Windsor, passed away at his home on Saturday, March 9, 2024. He was born on October 9, 1947, in Sedalia, MO, the son of Robert Max Zink and Emilie Estelle (Clark) Zink, who preceded him in death.

On February 19, at the age of 17, Bob volunteered for military service. He served in the Navy Sea Bees and was awarded the Bronze Star and the Vietnamese Medal of Honor. In May, he left for basic training, missing his high school graduation. Before leaving, he asked Rhonda Biggs out for a Coke, but she declined. He then went to her home, asked her parents, and they invited him in. Rhonda then agreed. They continued their courtship through letters. On leave between tours, he took Rhonda to the Archives Dance at Smith-Cotton. Afterward, he gave her a ring and asked her parents for her hand. He returned from his second tour on April 19, 1968. Bob and Rhonda were married on April 28, 1968, and they continued their love affair to the very end.

After marriage, they settled in, started a family, and built a life that was full of love and fun. Bob enjoyed camping, he could swim all day, and was his most graceful self on roller skates. He could not say no if anyone mentioned going to the water slides at the lake.
Bob was a talented carpenter. He built a home to raise the family and remained there until the end. He was a tool and die maker and a business owner for most of his life. He served his family and community through his church, 4-H, as a coach and as a member of the Green Ridge School Board.

Bob enjoyed being in the community and had several hobbies: vintage cars, fly fishing, and from retirement until the end, dancing with Rhonda. Together, they made some very dear friends.

In addition to his wife, Bob is survived by three children, Carrie Howieson (George) of Sedalia, Tonia Weaver (Frosty) of Sedalia, Bob Zink (Stephanie) of Columbia, MO; five grandchildren, Rachel O'Neal (Logan), Sam Howieson (Katelen), Justin Weaver (Berklee), Harrison Zink, and Aaron Zink; two great-grandchildren, Mara O'Neal, and Judson Howieson; a brother, Paul Zink (Robin) of Warsaw, MO; two sisters, Cheri Alfrey (Dean) of Oreckle, AZ, and Peggy Eschbacher of Sedalia, MO; several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

In addition to his parents, Bob was preceded in death by a brother, John Zink.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, March 13, 2024, at Rea Funeral Chapel, 3510 W. 16th St., with Pastor Tim Carter officiating.

The family will receive friends one hour before the service at the chapel.

The burial will be at Crown Hill Cemetery, Sedalia, MO. The U.S. Navy and Sedalia VFW Post #2591 will conduct Full Military Honors.

Honorary bearers will be his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Memorial contributions may be made to the State Fair Community College Foundation in the care of Robert Zink.