Dr. Robert (Bud) Voetberg, 95, of Ames passed away Jan. 20, 2024, at Israel Family Hospice House in Ames. Visitation was held from 4-6 p.m. at Adams Funeral Home, 502 Douglas Ave. Ames, Friday, Jan. 26. A memorial service was held Saturday, Jan. 27 at 10 a.m. at St. Paul Lutheran Church, 610 15th Street, Ames.
Bud was born Jan. 4, 1929 in Traer, to Dr. Dick Nicholas and Verna Edna (Doolittle) Voetberg. After graduating from Traer High School, he attended Fresno State College in California on an athletic scholarship, earning a letter in basketball. He then transferred to Iowa State University where he studied veterinary medicine and played football for the Cyclones his junior and senior years. He received his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree in 1952 and joined a practice in Mt. Vernon. On June 13, 1953 Bud was united in marriage to Thelma Ross at the Memorial Lutheran Church in Ames. Bud enlisted in the United States Army Veterinary Corps, serving at Fort McArthur, in San Pedro, Calif. for two years. He returned to Mt. Vernon where he served as a veterinarian from 1955-78. He then joined the USDA Food Safety Inspections Service until his retirement in 1992.
Bud enjoyed singing in vocal groups from high school into his 90’s, playing tennis into his 70’s, playing bridge until his 95th birthday, and many years of playing chess. He faithfully cheered on all Cyclone athletic teams and spent many hours watching TV sports coverage.
Bud is survived by his wife of 70 years, Thelma, his daughters, Janis Voetberg and Linda (Voetberg) Paschka, his son, Dr. Gary Voetberg; six grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; a brother Allen Voetberg; sisters-in-law Dorothy Voetberg and Pamela Voetberg; and many nieces, nephews and friends.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be sent to the Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine or the St. Paul Lutheran Church Preschool.
Online condolences may be left for the family at www.adamssoderstrum.com. Adams Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.