Bernard "Pete" Debok Obituary

 

Bernard Doyle “Pete” DeBok, age 84, of Laurie, MO passed away Friday, November 7, 2025, at Lake Regional Health System in Osage Beach. He was born November 16, 1940, in Chariton, Iowa, son of the late Carroll Roy and Phyllis Irene (Ford) DeBok.

Pete grew up in Russell, IA and graduated from Russell High School as Senior Class President in 1959. He was a starting guard on the basketball team, reaching the state semifinals in back-to-back years. On November 18, 1962, he married the late Diane (Baughman) DeBok and they made a home in Russell, IA where they raised their sons, Brad and Darrin. His career path led him to be a bridge inspector for the Iowa Department of Transportation, working 34 years until his retirement in 1998. He took great pride in his work and was proudly awarded a plaque in recognition of the high-quality construction performed on a paving project, which was rated the best paving project completed in the state of Iowa in 1994. In 2007, Pete moved to the Lake of the Ozarks residing in Laurie, MO to be closer to his family and it was there he met his partner, Mary Ann Carter. Mary Ann has been a constant source of companionship and support. Their time together brought many years of happiness to his life.

Pete had a passion for the Iowa Hawkeye sports teams, proudly wearing his Hawkeye jacket sparking conversations with Iowans everywhere he went. He also enjoyed woodworking, especially scroll sawing, creating many beautiful keepsakes for family and friends. He loved spending time at Vinny’s Restaurant where his friends became like family.

Pete will be deeply missed by all who knew him and will be remembered for his craftsmanship, willingness to help others and assisting with their building projects, as well as his stubbornness and the many laughs it brought to those around him.

He is survived by his sons, Brad DeBok and wife Shari of O’Fallon, MO and Darrin DeBok of Olathe, KS; five grandchildren, Taylor, Ally, Hannah, Ava and Dominic; his partner, Mary Ann Carter; his sister, Carolyn Pierce of Killeen, TX and many other relatives and friends.

A celebration of Pete’s life will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, November 15th, at Little Vinny’s Café and Lounge. A private family graveside service and interment will be held at Garber Memorial Estates in Laurie.