Robert E. Hoskinson Jr.

Memorial services for Robert E. Hoskinson Jr., 76, who passed away Friday, June 3, 2022, in Oskaloosa, will be held 11 a.m. Saturday, June 11 at Overton Funeral Home in Indianola with inurnment following in Indianola I.O.O.F. Cemetery. Visitation will be held one hour prior to services from 10 to 11 a.m. at the funeral home.

Robert was born on Dec. 17, 1945, to Mildred (Putnam) and Robert Hoskinson Sr. in Creston, Iowa. He graduated from Creston High School in the class of 1964. He majored in English at Simpson College and was a member of the Lambda Chi Alpha fraternity. He received a master’s degree in 18th century British literature from University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill and a master’s degree in social work from University of Iowa.

Robert married Marilyn Trotter on June 21, 1970. They were happily married for almost 52 years. He was a beloved husband, father and grandfather who was revered as a mentor and guidance counselor. Throughout his life he worked in many different roles including assistant dean of students at Simpson College, resident advisor at Grinnell College, and a human service professional in multiple health settings and nursing homes throughout Iowa.

Robert was an accomplished musician and poet. He was a member of various jazz trios and quartets. Robert was keenly interested in peace, environmental preservation, alternative thinking and others’ welfare. He was very proud to have a book of his poetry “Bridges in Time” published. He wrote more than 1,500 poems throughout his lifetime. He enjoyed nature hikes, looking for wildflowers, birdwatching, organic gardening and hunting wild asparagus.

Robert is survived by his wife Marilyn; children, Tabitha (Barry) Blessing and Ben (Mindy) Hoskinson; sister, Robina (Sam) Reeves; grandchildren: Hunter and Lincoln Blessing and Logan and Carter Hoskinson and many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents, Robert Sr. and Mildred Hoskinson and brother, Andrew Hoskinson.

Memorials may be made to Mahaska County Pheasants Forever in his name. To sign an online condolence, visit our website at www.overtonfunerals.com.