Robert Wayne Denton, 78, died on Sunday, July 27, 2013. Robert was born Oct. 2, 1934, in Marshalltown, Iowa, to Charles William and Verla Marie (Phelps) Denton.

He proudly served his country in the U.S. Air Force and later became a beloved teacher, dedicating his life to his students and teaching career for more than 30 years.

Robert loved nature and was an avid birdwatcher and fisherman. He also enjoyed going to garage sales and auctions as well as cooking and watching cooking shows. Robert’s gregarious and fun-loving nature endeared him to all.

Robert is preceded in death by his parents; his son, Douglas Denton; and daughter, Denise Denton.

Survivors include his wife, Patricia Denton of Norman, Okla.; children Todd Denton of Chatfield and Melanie Denton of Chatfield and their mother; Adam Denton of Minneapolis and his mother; step-children Jeff Chrisope and wife Rachel Robinson of Seattle, Wash., and Jennifer Drury and husband Michael of Manila, Philippines; granddaughters, Andrea and Tess of Chatfield; step-grandchildren, Mickey, Sarah, Sam and Katie of Philippines; siblings, Shirley, Richard and Jo Ann; special friends, Larry and Tana Smith and Bill and Joan George and their families.

Graveside services are 1 p.m. Friday at Riverside Cemetery in Marshalltown, Iowa. A memorial reception will follow at 2:30 p.m. Friday at Mitchell Funeral Home in Marshalltown.

Arrangements for Robert and his family were placed in the care of the Vice family at the Havenbrook Funeral Home of Norman. Online condolences may be shared at havenbrookfuneralhome.com.