Birth date: May 4, 1919 Death date: Nov 10, 2014
Robert William Dyas passed away on November 10, 2014 at Northcrest Health Care Center in Ames, Iowa. A Celebration of Life memorial service will be held on December 6th, at 11:00 a.m. at Grandon Funeral Home. A luncheon will follo Read Obituary
All of us who studied plant materials under Professor Dyas's instruction have in common the knowledge of specific trees' locations on the Iowa State campus. We also have in common his advice that an action should not be taken unless it is right for everyone. Professor Dyas made indelible marks on all our lives; and we seek to emulate him.
Professor Dyas provided invaluable research information regarding his early Iowa pioneer family for background to an Iowa history book that I wrote. He also offered priceless enthusiasm when it appeared in print.
He stays in memory as a gentleman possessed of warmth and sincere appreciation of others efforts that mark a true teacher. Even though our meetings were brief and long ago, he comes often and warmly to mind as example and in appreciation. I am so pleased to be among the many people whose lives were enriched by having known him.
It is a sad day as I read of Mr.Dyas' passing. Of all my professors and teachers throughout my life and can honestly say he was truly a favorite and a man who had a profound effect on my life though his teachings.
Godspeed, Mr. Dyas! you will be missed.
I loved having a professor like Bob Dyas when I was a student at Iowa State. He taught me "plant materials" and to this day, I still remember words/facts he told us about the trees on campus. He spoke of these trees as though they were good friends of his. What a fabulous man and a credit to his family and his university. Reading in the obituary about his military service and awards surprised me. I did not know that about him. But then, it all makes sense - he was dedicated and faithful to whatever he did. God bless the memory of Bob Dyas!
When I saw him in August, he was as always, and the things he spoke of were all things he was thankful for. Thankfulness... that's a beautiful quality. His students would likely describe Mr Dyas as learned, steady, generous, considerate, patient, and cheerful. I suspect the soldiers under his charge in Europe would say the same.
Mr Dyas was something rare: a faithful and thankful shepherd. He will be missed.
Bob Dyas was a special friend and professor to so many ISU students. His caring manner and infinite knowledge of plant material will always be remembered. His yearly Christmas cards displaying his beautiful sketches of the Iowa landscape still decorate my office during the Holiday season. Rest in peace.
I met Mr. Dyas in the late 1990s when during his retirement he repeatedly volunteered his time to speak to my class at Iowa State. His poise, his humility and his sense of respect for the enterprise of designing and making landscapes presented an example that I still aspire to.
Professor Dyas took the time to make me a landscape architect and better person. Many have been blessed.
Of all the instructors I had during my years at ISU, Bob Dyas was the most influential and inspirational. I will always remember him fondly.
Bob Dyas was a strong influence during my college career. He was an excellent professor and became a personal friend as well. I value the collection of hand-sketched Christmas cards & personal notes as a great memory of a wonderful man...truly a class act.
