Robert S. Zbylut

Robert S. Zbylut, affectionately known as Bob, passed away peacefully at home in Chesterfield, Missouri, on December 13, 2025. Born on August 18, 1938, in Chicago, Illinois, Bob led a remarkable life marked by dedication to family, service to his country, and a passion for education.

A proud veteran, Bob served 25 years in the United States Air Force, during which he undertook two tours of duty in Vietnam and was awarded the Bronze Star. He was known for his leadership and commitment, serving on the Inspector General’s team for three years and ultimately retiring with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. Bob's military career took him to various bases, including locations in South Dakota, Germany, Florida, Virginia, Ohio, England, and New Mexico, culminating in an illustrious service that reflected his love for his country.

In pursuit of knowledge and excellence, Bob graduated from the Illinois Institute of Technology in 1960 with majors in engineering and later earned his Master's degree from Wright State University in 1974. For approximately 20 years, he worked as a Senior Specialist Engineer in Munitions at McDonnell Douglas/Boeing, where he applied his extensive knowledge gained throughout his education and military service.

Bob was a man of many talents and interests. He was a small plane pilot and devoted his time to teaching English and Math to adults whose first language was not English, sharing his love for learning and his community. His quiet demeanor was often accompanied by a dry sense of humor, endearing him to those who knew him. Family-oriented and generous with his time, talents, and resources, Bob instilled in his children the importance of education and the joy of travel. His legacy of patriotism was particularly evident in his grandchildren, four of whom chose to follow in his footsteps by joining the military.

Bob was also deeply committed to his faith and community. A devout Catholic, he attended daily Mass and actively participated in charitable endeavors, working on a Habitat for Humanity house and assisting Wings of Hope with plane maintenance and flights. More recently, he contributed his time to the Jewish Community Center’s Food Pantry, continuing his life of service and compassion.

He is survived by his beloved children Sandy Davison, Debbie Kinneer, Robert Zbylut, and Mark Zbylut; sons-in-law Sam Davison and Brad Kinneer; daughter-in-law Stefanie Zbylut; and cherished grandchildren Kevin, Joshua, Tyler, Matthew (Emma) and Brian Kinneer; Andrew, Daniel (Lauren) & John Davison; Rachel (Greg) Rothermich; Kaitlyn (Mario Thompson) and Zach Zbylut. He held a special affection for his great-grandchildren, Emmy, Lydia, Nolan and Logan who lovingly referred to him as "Jaje," (Polish for grandpa.) He is also survived by several cousins and nieces and nephew. He was a friend to many and loved to help his neighbors. He loved to strike up conversations about random things whenever he was in a crowd.!

Bob’s life was also touched by the enduring love of his late wife Elaine, his parents John and Rose Zbylut, and his sister Loretta Russell, who have all passed before him.

In remembrance of Bob’s life, a visitation will be held on December 18, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Newcomer Funeral Home, West County, in Chesterfield, Missouri. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place on December 19, 2025 at 10:30am at St. Anselm Catholic Church in St. Louis, Missouri followed by a graveside service at 12:30 PM at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery in St. Louis, Missouri.

Bob Zbylut’s legacy of love, service, and dedication to family will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that you consider a donation to, The JCC of St. Louis, Wings of Hope - Chesterfield, Sacred Heart-Casimir Parish Leavenworth, Kansas, or St. Joachim and Anne Service Center in St. Charles, Missouri, in Bob's honor.