Robert Ellis McPherson

Robert Ellis McPherson, age 86, of Des Moines, Iowa passed away peacefully on August 4, 2026.

He was born on September 23, 1939, in Des Moines, Iowa. Bob graduated from East High School in 1958. He had an assortment of jobs during and after high school, and eventually became a stationary engineer with Armstrong Tire Company. He worked there for 30+ years. While working at Armstrong, he took on the hobby of learning how to fly airplanes. After many flight hours, he then started to be a flight instructor, teaching many, many students throughout the rest of his career.

When he left Armstrong Tire, he then followed his dream and joined Elliot Aviation and became a respected charter pilot. He was always learning and growing his knowledge. Bob was flying King Airs and Learjets at the end of his career. This hobby and career allowed him to travel all over and meet lots of new and interesting people. When he wasn’t flying, he and his wife, Linda were going on lots of adventures and were enjoying life.

He is survived by his wife of 44 years, Linda McPherson; brother, Jim McPherson (Linda); children, Kevin McPherson, Cindy McPherson (John Kump), Michelle Ritchie (Brian), and Kerry Brockman (Chuck Ponxs). Bob was blessed with many grandchildren and great-grandchildren, whom he loved very dearly.  

Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Embert and Cletis McPherson and his brother, Otis McPherson.

A visitation will be held from 12:00 to 2:00 p.m. Monday, August 10, 2026 at Hamilton’s Funeral Home, 605 Lyon Street, Des Moines followed by a graveside service at Lowman Cemetery in Runnells.

Donations may be made in his honor to the American Heart Association or to UnityPoint Hospice through UnityPoint Health – Des Moines Foundation.

Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.