Robert VanDerveer Leaumont's Obituary
A Life Well-Lived
Born on February 22, 1940, to Obed Joseph and Ruth Evelyn Leaumont,
Bob’s journey began in New Orleans, where he lived on Sage Street from 1940 to 1948 before moving to Nolan Avenue through 1952. He attended Adolf Meyer Elementary School during this time.
In the early 1950s, the family relocated to Mattoon, Illinois, where Bob entered junior high school. The move was prompted by his father’s career with the California Oil Company, where he served as office manager.
From 1953 to 1957, the Leaumonts lived in Ardmore, Oklahoma. Bob attended Ardmore High School, graduating with the Class of 1957.
He then enrolled at Oklahoma State University, which was still known as Oklahoma A&M during his first year. At OSU, Bob pursued an engineering degree and joined the Delta Chi fraternity.
In January 1958, the family moved to Norman, Oklahoma. Bob transferred to the University of Oklahoma and continued his studies while living at home. It was during this time, while working as a lifeguard, that he met the love of his life, Deeanna. They married on January 28, 1961, in Ardmore, Oklahoma.
After marrying, Bob and Deeanna moved to Richardson, Texas, in 1962. Bob completed his engineering degree at Southern Methodist University (SMU). His professional career included work with Marmon Motors, followed by a long tenure with ARCO Oil & Gas, which led to a transfer in 1988 to Midland, Texas.
After retirement, Bob remained active in his community. He became a beloved substitute teacher at Midland High School, where he found joy in working with students. He and Deeanna also embraced the outdoors, spending summers as camp hosts at Red Feather Lakes in Colorado. They traveled in their RV, enjoying the freedom and beauty of nature.
Later in life, as health concerns grew, Bob and Deeanna returned to the Dallas area to be closer to family.
Family and Legacy
Bob is survived by his brother, Rick Leaumont.
He was preceded in death by his son, Robert Gregory Leaumont, whose memory lives on through his wife, Donna Leaumont.
Bob’s grandchildren from Rob include Angela Talbott and Gregory Leaumont, and his great- grandchildren: David. son of Gregory and Jennifer Leaumont, and Tessa, daughter of Angela Talbott.
His younger son, Mark Stephen Leaumont, also survives him, along with Mark’s children: Chloe, Luke, and Slade Leaumont. Bob’s great-granddaughter Evelyn is the daughter of Chloe and Michael Basil.
A Boy of Curiosity, A Man of Faith
Even in his youth, Bob’s love for learning and innovation was evident. In high school, he and a friend built a scale model of an offshore oil rig, winning first place at the science fair. The model was later purchased by the Noble Research Institute in Ardmore for $100 — a small fortune at the time — and proudly displayed in their lobby for years.
Bob was also deeply involved in scouting. With his mother as his Cub Scout Den Mother and his father by his side, Bob rose through the ranks to become a Boy Scout and Explorer Scout. He and his father were inducted into the Order of the Arrow together — a moment of pride for both. The family’s camping trips around Oklahoma were among his most cherished memories and sparked a lifelong love of the outdoors.
Bob was a faithful and unwavering follower of Jesus Christ, and his life was a testament to faith and love. As a dedicated leader within the church, he inspired many through his service, compassion, and steadfast commitment to his beliefs.
Final Thoughts
Bob will be remembered for his intelligence, curiosity, gentle humor, and the quiet strength he carried through life. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and teacher — a man who lived with purpose, led with heart, and followed Christ with unwavering faith.
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