Dr. Robert E. Wann

Dr. Robert E. Wann, 86, of Farmington, MO, passed June 10, 2016 at Presbyterian Manor.  Dr. Wann was born in Bonne Terre, MO, February 20, 1930.  

 Dr. Wann is survived by his wife Darlene "Sue" Wann of Farmington, brothers William Wann of Bonne Terre and Richard Wann of Strathmore, CA., sisters Helen Ulm of Quincy, IL, and Doris Green of Wellington, CO.  He is also survived by children Jeffrey Wann (Kathleen) of Peoria; IL and Gregory Wann (Ellen) of St Louis; with grandchildren Joel Wann of Peoria, IL; Rebecca McCabe,  Rachel Wann, Sarah Wann, Abigail Wann, Elizabeth Wann, Katie Wann and Grace Wann, all of Peoria, IL; Kristen Wann of St Louis; as well as great granddaughter Carlee Wann of Peoria, IL.  Dr. Wann was preceded in death by parents Clifford J Wann and Pearl E Wann of Doe Run; brother, Clifford Wann Jr, of Bonne Terre; and great grandson Tristan McCabe of Buffalo, NY. 

Dr. Wann earned a Ph.D. from Kansas State University in organic chemistry. He earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Missouri and an associate’s degree from Flat River Jr. College (Mineral Area College).  Dr. Wann was a talented basketball player at Bonne Terre High School, Mineral Area College, and the University of Missouri.  He was a contributing chemist in over 33 patents. His formulation work included aspirin, Windex, anesthesia, jet engine lubricants, Pum-X, Germ-X, various herbicides, and many more.  He was director of research at Rexall Drug, and directed research at Vi-Jon, Church & Dwight (Arm & Hammer), Proctor & Gamble, and Drackett. Hundreds of his formulas are used every day by millions as he formulated private label shampoos, cosmetics, and other products.  Many products were plain-labeled for pharmacies, food chains, and large retailers.  He was a former Chairman of the Society of Cosmetic Chemists and won a national award for his formulation of the non-toxic Easy Off oven cleaner. Dr. Wann served in the Navy as a pilot and was an adjunct instructor at MAC.  Dr. Wann was a member of Fellowship Free Will Baptist church in Park Hills.  He was a member of The Gideons sharing his faith in Christ.

The family will welcome friends from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday June 14, 2016, at the C.Z. Boyer and Son Funeral Home in Desloge, MO.  A funeral service will be held 10 a.m.  Wednesday June 15, 2016, at the Fellowship Freewill Baptist Church, Park Hills, MO. with Rev. Wayne Phillips officiating. Interment will be that afternoon at 2 p.m. at the Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery. Memorials may be directed to help fund Parkinson’s research or to the Fellowship Freewill Baptist Church. You may view tribute and share your memories and condolences at www.czboyer.com.