Bob and his family moved many times, preparing him well for a future career as an Air Force navigator. After 22 years with assignments in Guam, France, Germany, Vietnam, Ohio, and Delaware, he retired and embarked on a second career with Lockheed Missiles and Space as a logistician in California; eventually retiring a second time out of their Austin, Texas division.
Early in his career, Bob met and married the girl next door - Jane Gaile Gillespie of Atlanta - and she followed him and supported him through each adventure, including parenthood as they welcomed each of their two children. In 1996, after the birth of his second grandchild, he and Jane decided to move to the panhandle of Florida and live their retirement dream on the Gulf coast. They had many happy years there, making lots of friends and hosting many family visits. In 2014, after a diagnosis of oral cancer, he and Jane came to Wichita, Kansas to be near family for love and support. His health care was exceptional and he lived nine more years. A lifelong learner, he loved nothing more than reading and researching his family genealogy.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Marilyn E. Newman; and his wife of almost 57 years, Jane.
Bob is survived by his daughter, Joan “Jody” E. Webster (husband Tom); his son, Brent Eckerman (husband Ted Youngs); and his three adult grandchildren, Caitie, Megan, and Brad Webster.
Rest in peace, Dad - we’ll miss your laugh, your entertaining discussions, and our weekly dinners together.
Memorial contributions in Bob's memory can be made to the Alzheimer's Association, 1820 E. Douglas Ave, Wichita, KS 67214 And/Or the American Cancer Society, PO Box 6704 Hagerstown, MD 21741.
