Robert D. "Bob" Blackburn, age 87 of West Bend, formerly of Milwaukee & Eau Claire, passed away Tuesday May 12, 2015 at his home with his family by his side.
He was born on October 11, 1927 in Grand Rapids, MI to the late Robert J. and Marie (nee Steusel) Blackburn, and moved to Milwaukee at an early age. Bob served honorably in the U.S. Navy during WW II in the Pacific Theater.
On June 16, 1951 Bob was united in marriage to Leatrice Connors at St. Leo's Catholic Church in Milwaukee. She preceded him in death in 2010. Bob was later united in marriage to Kathy Ewert on June 9, 2012 at Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church in Hubertus.
Bob spent his career serving with the Milwaukee Police Department, retiring from the detective division in 1980. During his time on the Milwaukee Police Department Bob helped develop the Milwaukee Police Scuba Search and Rescue Team. In 1981 he moved to Eau Claire and taught criminal science at Chippewa Valley Technical College until retiring in 1995. He moved to Cedar Community in West Bend in 2007.
Bob was a member of the Professional Policeman's Protective Association, and the EAA. For many years he served as a Cub Scout and Boy Scout leader. He enjoyed fishing, the Packers, and time with his family. Bob had a passion for flying and enjoyed his trip on the WW II Honor Flight.
He is survived by his wife, Kathy; two sons, Steven Blackburn of Merton, and Robert Blackburn of Sussex; four step children, Ralph (Janet) Ewert of Menomonee Falls, Douglas (Denise) Ewert of West Bend, Paul Ewert of North Lake, and Stanton Ewert of West Bend; four grandchildren, Alex (fiancAC.e Samantha), Austin, Allison (fiancAC. Michael), and Chais; six step-grandchildren, Jason (Annie), Ame, Russell (Krista), Emily (Mario), Alex, and Annah; other relatives and many friends.
He was preceded in death by a sister Barbara, and a brother, Tom.
A gathering with family and friends to celebrate Bob's Life will be held from noon until 4:00 pm on Saturday May 30th at the Family Center at Wisconsin Memorial Park (13235 W. Capital Dr.) Brookfield.
Memorials to Sacred Heart Hospital (900 W Clairemont Ave. Eau Claire WI, 54701-9904) , Partners in Caring at Cedar Community (5595 HWY Z West Bend, WI 53095) or the charity of your choice are appreciated.
Myrhum - Patten Funeral Service of West Bend is assisting the family. Online condolences may be expressed at www.myrhum-patten.com