story by Vickie Jenkins, Staff Writer
Nestled in a quiet northwest Oklahoma City neighborhood, Baptist Village of Oklahoma City is a continuing care senior adult lifestyle community offering residential living, assisted living, memory support, skilled nursing, rehabilitation, and health center for long-term care nursing services. They provide a community environment that offers services and amenities to keep residents healthy and active.
At the heart of Baptist Village is a nurse that embodies compassion and dedication. Bob Ice, RN, Director of Health Services has days that are filled with moments that blend medical expertise and heartfelt connection, as he cares for the residents. From managing medications to offering a listening ear, Bob is an excellent stepping stone to those around him as he brings 17 years of experience in healthcare, and six years serving as an RN at Baptist Village. It’s easy to see why Bob continues to serve others with a steady presence in the lives of those who call Baptist Village their home.
Bob was born in Okeene, Oklahoma and was raised in the small town of Watonga, where he grew up as a true country boy. From an early age, he worked alongside his father in the fields learning the value of hard work and responsibility. “I was driving a tractor by the time I was nine years old,” Bob shared with a smile. After graduating with a class of 48 students, Bob found himself uncertain about his next steps in life. Seeking new opportunities, he made the leap to Oklahoma City, a move that brought culture shock and a steep learning curve. “I had to adjust to everything and I do mean everything,” he recalled.
Initially, Bob went to culinary school but soon realized that cooking wasn’t his calling. Instead, he felt a deep desire to help others and decided to pursue nursing. After graduating from ITT Technical Institute in Oklahoma City, he began his career with a passion for making a difference in the lives of Oklahoma’s aging population. Over the years, Bob worked his way up from CNA to RN and eventually to Director of Health Services. “I love what I do and know this is where I am meant to be,” he said with pride. Looking ahead, Bob hopes to earn his bachelor’s degree and possibly, pursue becoming a nurse practitioner, a goal he approaches with determination and purpose.
Bob explained that there is a strong connection among all of the employees at Village Baptist. “We hold leadership meetings three times a week to address any concerns and ensure open communication,” he shared. In addition to fostering teamwork, the organization promotes scholarships and tuition assistance programs, which have been a tremendous success in supporting employees’ growth and development. “Every employee here is truly special to us, and we are committed to treating them with the utmost respect,” Bob said emphasizing the value placed on creating a supportive and empowering work environment.
When asked what qualities make a good nurse, Bob thoughtfully shared his insights. “A good nurse needs to have compassion, patience, and a willingness to learn something new every day,” he said. He emphasized the importance of having an open heart and being attentive to the needs of those around you. While he doesn’t believe there is one specific quality that defines a great nurse, he strives to carry out traits that promote compassion and care. “I always aim to find solutions that encourage teamwork, and I make it a priority to be supportive, encouraging and compassionate to others,” Bob explained.
Bob mentioned that there are several individuals he would like to publicly thank for the significant impact they’ve had on his life. “Without their encouragement, I wouldn’t be where I am today,” he said sincerely. “A heartfelt thank you to Brandie Williams, RN, Pam Brooks, Health Center Administrator, and Allison Boyd, Nurse Director. I’m incredibly grateful for the love, support, and guidance you have given me. There were countless times you gave me that extra push I needed, and it made all the difference. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.”
In a ld that often takes quiet heroes for granted, Bob stands as a beacon of inspiration. His genuine love for his work and the people he serves shines through in every way, reminding us all of the impact one person can have when driven by purpose and compassion. For those that want to make a difference, he proves that nursing is not just a job, it’s a calling.
