Rob Kardashian 'excited to have a long-term bond' with baby

Rob Kardashian is hoping to have the same relationship with his child as he had with his late dad.

The 29-year-old reality star, who is expecting his first child with fiancee Blac Chyna, lost his father Robert Kardashian to cancer in 2003, when he was just 15.

He had a close relationship with the attorney, and he plans to use that for inspiration when he becomes a father.

"I had a really close bond with my dad. I was only with him for 15 years," Rob told People magazine as he discussed impending parenthood. "That's why I'm looking forward to having that long-term bond with my child and being funny and goofy like my dad was."

Rob also believes that while his father is no long with him, his spirit always will be: "He's definitely happy, looking down," he smiled.

As the reality star marks a new chapter in his life, he's crediting Chyna for helping him embark on a new diet and exercise regime. With her encouragement, he has reversed his Type 2 Diabetes diagnosis, and Rob is now looking forward to the future.

"I'm excited for this little journey now with my child and Chyna," he added. "I want to have a fun life."

Rob's relationship with Chyna had a rocky start, as she already has a son with Tyga, who is dating Rob's half-sister Kylie Jenner. However, after several tumultuous months, Rob's relatives soon realized the romance was having a positive impact on the father-to-be, who has suffered from depression leading to weight gain and a reclusive lifestyle.

And in a previously released segment of his People interview, Rob credited Chyna for helping him through the most difficult periods, adding: "She got me through my darkest times. I wasn't happy in my own skin. I missed out on so many things.

"I've been friends with Chyna for a long time. She was someone I reached out to for advice. She would cook for me and we'd just talk. She's surrounded me with a lot of positivity. From the moment we met, I knew I wanted to be more than friends."