Bob Norris LaRue

In Loving Memory of Bob Norris LaRue

Bob Norris LaRue, a proud Oklahoma State Cowboy, passed away recently at the age of 93, leaving behind a legacy of learning, craftsmanship, service, humor, and quiet resilience.

Born the youngest of seven children, Bob was raised with a deep love of sports, hard work, and perseverance. As a student-athlete at Oklahoma State University, he embodied the “Cowboy Way,” playing both defensive end and tight end and bringing grit and determination to the football program in Stillwater. His years on the gridiron were a source of lifelong pride, and he remained a devoted supporter of his alma mater throughout his life

Following his college years, Bob served in the United States Air Force. As a pilot, he flew T-6 training aircraft, B-25 bombers, and C-123 transport planes, most often carrying paratroopers during training missions.

After his military service, Bob relocated to California, met and married his wife Noie and had three children. He taught physics, earned two master’s degrees, and later served as a high school principal. An accomplished woodworker, Bob also built furniture, puzzles, wooden bowls and even explored intarsia wood carvings. He also was a self-taught handy man and mechanic. In later years, he and several cronies affectionately named “The Geriatric Work Crew,” whose home-improvement projects were not without mishap, but always entertaining.

Bob had a gift for perspective, especially when life felt hard. When one of his children complained, he was known to respond — usually with a grin — that “the branch doesn’t fall far from the tree,” or that “in the hottest fire is forged the strongest steel.” His wisdom was rarely delivered without humor. He was also famous for consuming strawberry milk shakes faster than anyone his family had ever known, and for particular enthusiasm for using the brakes – it was always an exciting car ride.

After parting ways amicably with wife Noie in a friendly divorce, in 1995 he married Joan MarronJoan his Clinton High sweetheart. They were married for more than 30 years, sharing adventures with Bob’s three children and extended family. She was not only a talented artist but played the accordion, favored red cowboy boots and brought joy and laughter to all those around her. Bob passed just 13 days before Joan.

Whether cheering from the stands, telling stories from his playing days, or spending time with those he loved, Bob’s presence was marked by warmth, loyalty, and strength of character. He is survived by his three children, nine grandchildren and wide circle of friends who will remember him not only for what he accomplished, but for how he made people feel — supported, challenged, and always amused.