Robert Dean Bryson, son of Carl and Frances (McCall) Bryson, was born Feb. 26, 1932, in Brevard, N.C. He passed away Dec. 10, 2014, in St. James, Mo.
The Bryson family moved to Douglas, Wyo., in the early 1940s. They had an uncle who owned a 300,000 acre ranch. The family went to help him and ended up staying for several years. To drive cattle to the summer pasture in the mountains was a 156 miles and it took 10 days to drive them to the pasture. Bob grew up and attended school there.
In 1950, Bob joined the United States Army. He was involved in the Korean and Vietnam War and took part in the battle called Hamburger Hill. He served our country for over 22 years receiving three Silver Stars, three Purple Hearts, one in Korea and two in Vietnam, five Bronze Stars for Valor and 16 Air Medals for Valor. He fought courageously and was awarded accordingly for his extraordinary heroism. He was discharged June 30, 1972.
Bob was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Lee Bryson and Otto Bryson; and two sisters, Lillian Whitmire and Betty Littlefield.
He is survived by his children, Bob Bryson of Yukon, Mo., Randy Bryson and wife, Caroline, of Houston, Mo., William Bryson of Albuquerque, N.M., Ronald Bryson of Yukon, Mo., and Dana Bryson of Springfield, Mo.; five grandchildren, Adam, Melissa, Owen, Taylor and Riley; two great-grandchildren, Colin and Xavier; a half-brother, Steve Jenkins and wife, Sharon; and many other relatives.
Bob enjoyed being in the Army and traveled to many different places. When he retired he had to begin a new life. He found that being on a ranch was something he could spend his time doing and get satisfaction from the time and effort put into it. He loved the animals and found it could be a great way to escape from the world around him.
Bob was saved at First Baptist Church in 1960.
Bob served as a Boy Scout Leader for many years, encouraging his troop to excel in the many facets of the Scouting program.
Bob will be missed by those who knew and loved him best.
Services were 2 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 16, at Evans Funeral Home with Dr. Howell Burkhead officiating. Burial was in Big Creek Cemetery. Pallbearers were Brian Crewse, Taylor Bryson, Chris Venable, Brent Crewse and Shawn Brockelbank.
Online condolences may be sent to www.evansfh.com. Services were under the direction of Evans Funeral Home.
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