Bobby Jay Dobrinski

Bobby (Bob) Jay Dobrinski, 61, of Cleo Springs, Oklahoma, passed away suddenly on Tuesday, April 28.

Bob was born on October 13, 1964, in Okeene, Oklahoma, to Norma and Percy Dobrinski, the youngest of five children—proudly known as “the baby” of the family—and shared a close and lifelong bond with his siblings. He grew up in Okeene, where he developed a lifelong love of craftsmanship, learning woodcrafting skills alongside his dad.

Bob graduated from Okeene High School in 1982, where he was a dedicated member of the 1981 Whippet Championship football team as manager. He went on to attend Southwestern Oklahoma State University in Weatherford, where he earned both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees.

Bob’s life work was rooted in education, and his 33-year career at Arnett Public Schools reflected his deep commitment to students and community. Throughout his years there, he served in many roles, including teacher, principal, and TSA Director, always going above and beyond to support and inspire those around him. He was known for building strong relationships with students, encouraging them to believe in themselves, and creating an environment where they felt valued and supported. His steady presence, leadership, and sense of humor left a lasting impact on generations of students, colleagues, and families.

He later served as principal at Cleo Springs, continuing his dedication to students and staff. Upon retiring from education, he transitioned into a role with the Department of Rehabilitation Services—a position he genuinely loved, as it allowed him to continue helping others in meaningful ways.

Above all else, Bob’s greatest joy and proudest accomplishment was being a father. His daughters, Jaydelyn (15) and Kaizlyn (14), were the light of his life and his entire world. He often said the best days of his life were February 28, 2011, and April 9, 2012—the days his girls were born. He was a “girl dad” through and through, rarely missing a game, practice, or activity. Whether it was cheering from the stands, planning float trips, or taking them to theme parks, he cherished every moment spent with them. He could often be found at his girls’ pig shows, beaming with pride, and he was especially proud of their accomplishments in TSA, celebrating their hard work and successes every step of the way.

His stepson, Collin Bryant, held a special place in his heart and was loved as his own. Bob’s love extended far beyond his immediate family—he had many friends he cared for deeply, and he treasured every opportunity to catch up, laugh, and share stories.

Known for his quick wit and playful spirit, Bob was a natural jokester with a one-of-a-kind sense of humor. He had a way of making people feel at ease and bringing smiles wherever he went. He was also a devoted fan of Oklahoma University athletics, especially football and softball. If there was a game on, he was watching.

He is survived by his loving daughters, Jaydelyn and Kaizlyn Dobrinski; his stepson, Collin Bryant; his sisters, Sherri Dobrinski, Pam Wright (Wayne), and Connie Williams (Aaron); his niece, Kimberly Miller; nephews Brian Wright, Aaron Wright, and Kyle Brown; as well as many great-nieces and nephews and countless “bonus kids” who loved him dearly and were touched by his kindness and guidance. He was preceded in death by his parents, Norma and Percy Dobrinski, and his brother, Billy Dobrinski.

Bob will be remembered for his unwavering love for his family, his dedication to education, his servant’s heart, and the joy he brought into the lives of others. His legacy lives on in the many students he inspired and, most importantly, in the lives of his daughters, who were his greatest pride.

The family will greet friends and loved ones from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Friday, May 1, at Wilkinson Mortuary in Okeene. Services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, May 2, at Mennonite Brethren Church in Fairview, with Pastor John Wheeler of Duncan officiating. Burial will follow at Rose Lawn Cemetery in Okeene.  Wilkinson Mortuary of Okeene in charge of arrangements

Bob’s life was a testament to love, laughter, and the difference one person can make. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.