Robert Wells Milner III

Bob initially studied Architectural Engineering in college, but graduated with a degree in Mechanical Engineering Technology from the University of Miami, where he was a member of the Sigma Nu fraternity. He then joined the Navy as an officer for 2 years and qualified for flight school. He elected instead to start a family with his wife Norma Christman Milner. He and Norma had three children: Robert Wells IV, Julianna, and Myles Christman.

Bob had an entrepreneurial spirit. He and Norma started and managed several family businesses over a 45 year period. They founded Roman Marble Co. in 1972, providing custom marble sinks, countertops and shower enclosures to the housing and apartment industry for 20 years. In 1991 they founded Cast Fireplaces Inc., which manufactures cast stone fireplace surrounds and other products designed by Bob. He continued to manage Cast Fireplaces with Julianna and Myles until the time of his passing.

His adventurous spirit was not limited to business. He enjoyed traveling to foreign lands and undertak-ing new activities even later in life. He learned to snow ski at the age of 65 and, with his sons, joined a Christian men’s ski group called the Gorilla Skiers. He was known amongst the Gorillas as an accom-plished storyteller, never failing to bring laughter with his embellished versions of the day’s activities. Bob never met a microphone he didn’t like.

Bob was a kind and caring father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend. He generously shared his good fortune with others, adamantly picking up the dinner tab, willingly loaning money to those in need, and graciously giving Christmas presents to the children of his many employees every year. His answer was always “yes” when it was within his power to help someone.

Despite the many hours required to successfully start and run a manufacturing business, Bob still made time for his family. He was very involved with the sports activities of his sons, attending all of their games and even coaching several of their teams. He continued that support with his grandchildren, attending as many of their activities as he could. He was the true family patriarch: the solid rock to be counted on during challenging times and the first to throw a grand celebration during joyous ones.

Bob was preceded in death by his wife of 53 years, Norma, and his sister Jean Whitman.

Bob leaves behind his son Bob and wife Joyce, daughter Julianna Alff and husband Robin, son Myles and wife Angelica, grandchildren Melissa Milner, Garrett Milner and wife Leigh, Matthew Milner, Alexandra Alff, Harrison Alff, Carlos Gonzalez, Wendy Gonzalez, great grandson Gideon Milner, sister Ann Wallace and husband Don; sister Betty Blake and husband Herb; sister Patty Marvel and husband Jeff; special companion Dolores Leach, friend/caretaker Xin Qi (Tina), and numerous nieces, nephews, friends and employees who will greatly miss him.

His life’s mantra was to make this world a better place for those who follow. He lived his life to the fullest to accomplish that and instill that mindset into those close to him. He unselfishly gave of his time and treasures to indeed make the world a better place. We will miss you, Papa.

A family visitation will be held at Memorial Oaks funeral home on Wednesday evening from 6-8 p.m. Services will be held at Memorial Oaks on Thursday morning at 10 a.m.