John Robert Short

John Robert Short, known affectionately as Bob, passed away on Monday, December 9, 2024, at the age of 86. Born on November 10, 1938, in Potosi, Missouri, he was raised on the family homestead in Ebo, where he developed a strong connection to farming and an unwavering work ethic that guided him throughout his life.

Bob graduated from Potosi High School with the class of 1957 and shortly after entered the workforce at Laiben Construction. He later partnered with his brother James to establish Short Brothers Homebuilders. In addition to his construction career, he briefly contributed his skills at Eagle Cabinet for a short time.

Bob was a devoted farmer who cherished every moment spent nurturing his cattle and riding his tractor on his farm, which he considered his oasis. Beyond work, he enjoyed socializing and had a passion for dancing, frequently visiting local dance halls such as Plummers, Stovall's Dance Hall, and Casa Loma Ball. A storyteller at heart, Bob captivated those around him with tales—both fiction and nonfiction—and found joy in riding four-wheelers and spending time with his dogs, Baxter, Logger, Dixie, and Sadie Bell. He was also a devoted son, providing faithful care to his mother, Ann, until her passing. 

He is survived by his loving companion of 23 years, Sharon Allen; his four children: Lisa Pratte (husband, Larry), Doug Short (Roxanne Bequette), Julie Brown (husband, Brian), and Rob Short (wife, Jen). Bob also had the joy of bonus children Shane Allen (wife, Seana) and Alicia Ruessing (husband, Joseph), along with fourteen cherished grandchildren: Larry Pratte III (wife, Kayla), Eli Pratte (wife, Peyton), Emily Buckwalter (husband, Matt), Ethan Short (wife, Carissa), Evan Short, Blake Gibson (wife, Emily), Gabriel Gibson (wife, Carly), Hannah Brown and Trey Harness, Jessica Brown, and Rachel Brown, Lila Short, Adel Short, and Elias Short; fourteen great-grandchildren: Olivia, Katie, Palmer, Luke, Liam, Zoe, Bella, Millie, Gatlin, Marlee, Westyn, Baylor, Kinsley, Abel. Additionally, he is remembered by his five siblings: James Short (wife, Lynn), Denny Short (wife, Suzanne), Leanna Burgherr, Marilyn Redmond, and Pat Portell (husband, Dave); and two bonus grandchildren: Tyler and Rylee; as well as nieces, nephews, extended family and a host friends.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents: Robert and Ann Short; his bonus son, Shawn Allen, and two brothers-in-law, Bob Redmond and Jerry Burgherr.

Friends are invited to join the family for a time of visitation held at DeClue Funeral Home in Potosi on Friday, December 13, 2024, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., and again on Saturday, December 14, 2024, from 9:00 a.m. until the time of his funeral service at 11:00 a.m. held in the DeClue Memorial Chapel. Father Tony Dattilo will be officiating Bob's service. A private interment will be held at a later date. 

Bob Short leaves behind a legacy filled with hard work, love for family and friends, and countless fond memories that will forever be cherished by those who knew him. Funeral arrangements were entrusted to the care and direction of DeClue Funeral Home.