"Mein herzliches Beileid...shirley you still Alive ?michael son of Gisela From wiesbaden germany michael-heerlein@web.de best regards"
William Robert "Doc" Fuqua
William Robert "Doc" Fuqua, 58, of Rochester, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, August 8, 2018.
Doc was born June 23, 1960 in Orlando, FL to William and Shirley Fuqua Sr. Doc graduated from Daviess County High School in Owensboro, KY. He joined the United States Navy and enjoyed a rewarding 21-year career as both a Corpsman and deep-sea diver and instructor. He was passionate about serving his country and the men and women he cared for and took full advantage of the adventure the military provides, meeting people and exploring new sites at every chance.
On April 24, 1993, he married Kathy Wahlberg in Decorah, IA. They had two children, Nicholas and Jackson. The family moved to Decorah upon Doc's retirement from the Navy, and Doc earned his Bachelor of Science in Nursing with the highest honors/distinction from the University of Iowa. Doc's nursing career led him to Mayo Clinic in Rochester where his talent and background in hyperbaric medicine helped establish the Hyperbaric and Altitude Medicine Program. He was most recently an RN at the Federal Medical Center in Rochester.
Doc loved like no other: his life, his family and friends, his faith, his work and his country. He had a unique ability to light up any room he entered with his big smile and genuine wish to meet or talk with you. He was truly content when he could help someone else - stranger or friend, patient or colleague. Anyone who knew Doc has a funny story to go along with it, and he was best known for his antics and zest for life. Doc was always up for any adventure - you just had to say the word and he would join you with a smile. Doc's passion for helping others was evident throughout his professional career. He enjoyed challenges he could work to solve and sought ways to make improvements, always with a positive attitude that was infectious.
Doc is survived by his loving wife Kathy; sons, Nicholas and Jackson; mother, Shirley Fuqua; sisters, Bunny (Howard) Frum, Audrey (David) Price, Kim (Ross) Cotton, Nancy (Sam) Wilson. Mother in-law, Marilyn Wahlberg; brothers in-law Randy, Bradley (Rhonda), Tom (Beth), John; many nieces and nephews and a host of other family and friends. Doc was preceded in death by his father, William and his father-in-law, Raymond Wahlberg.
A memorial to celebrate Doc's life will be held 11:00 a.m. Saturday, August 18, 2018 at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, 1212 12th Ave. NW, Rochester with Rev. David Berg officiating. Visitation will be held 5:00-8:00 p.m. Friday, August 17, 2018 at Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Homes, 5421 Royal Place NW, Rochester and one hour prior to the service at the church. Inurnment will be held on Monday, August 20, 2018 at The Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery in Preston, MN.
In lieu of flowers, the family will be directing memorials to a ministry that provides programming for youth. To share a special memory or condolence, please visit www.ranfranzandvinefh.com
"Mein herzliches Beileid...shirley you still Alive ?michael son of Gisela From wiesbaden germany michael-heerlein@web.de best regards"
"I fondly remember Doc around the campfire at Tom and Beth's home, beer in hand, smiling, laughing, and always telling a good story.
My thoughts and prayers go out to Doc's family and friends.
Doc is one of those people who's spirit will forever live on in our hearts."
"They failed to mention he was a WKU Sigma Nu. Very respectful man. I am sadden to hear of his loss of life. "
"For the Family I have not met - you have and will always be in our thoughts. Bob is a gift. He makes us better people. While I am sad this day, I am also smiling right now. Thanks Doc. Love Pat."
"Kathy, Nichols and Jackson, My heartfelt condolences, what a huge loss. Doc was THE most Loving, Friendly, giving individual I have ever been around. He LOVED his family. His contributions to the Hyperbaric Treatment center made it the world-class facility that it is. His dedication to his fellow man was bar none. May your faith keep you strong, he will always be there with you......God Bless"
"Dear Kathy~ We send our love and deepest sympathy to you and your family in this time of sorrow. May your faith and the support friends and family sustain you. John and Birgitte Christianson"
" I first met Doc through family stories that Ray shared with me when he and I were getting acquainted. I failed to understand how short our time together would be. There is comfort in knowing that now is not forever. I want to hear both men again. I don't understand the why in life quite often, but I do trust the God of Heaven and Earth to do what He has promised . My sympathy to Kathy , Jack and Nick. I'm so sorry for the pain and loss here and now. May the happy memories comfort and encourage you daily. "
"Dear Kathy, Nick, Jack and the entire family, I share your shock and sorrow in the tragic loss of your beloved Doc! He was such a beacon of light to everyone, bringing care and his best self to work, play, family, & his communicty, personal ministry and service. Seems so unfair that he was taken from us so soon! But while his work here is finished, his love, life and his example will live on in our hearts and memories! Sending you warm thoughts, God's Love, and wishing you comfort and strength! With deepest sympathy, J. Susan Hines"
"Kathy, I am so sorry for your loss and pain. You were one of my lab partners in biology lab at NICC the year after you did the MAI program and the year before I did that program. You and your family are in my prayers. "
"Sweet Kathy, I just don?t even know what to say. Like everyone else, I?m still stunned. I?m probably saying things that so many others are saying. That ?Doc was Bigger than Life!? He?d bring an energy and a light into a room that you couldn?t help but be drawn to. If nothing else, just to hear what unique perspective he?d share of some observance he witnessed. We all have stories of: ?Remember when Doc did??, ?Remember when Doc said??, ?Remember when Doc??. We will all remember Doc with the fondest & funniest of memories. He will be remembered as one of the most unique characters I?ve ever known. In the best way, of course. My heart breaks for you, your sons, and his sweet mother. Stay strong, know you were truly loved. His spirit will always be there in the quiet moments. Be still and listen for it and be comforted by it. My deepest and sincerest sorrow for your loss. Love, Jane McGillivray (Bostick) "
"To Kathy and the entire Fuqua family - So very sorry for your loss of Doc! Wishing you all the strength you need for this terrible loss, as well as in time, comfort from the beautiful memories you made together as a family. - Dawn Svenson Holland "
"To Doc?s Family I know that God will in due time help you through this time of sorrow. I will keep you in my prayers. "
"We are so saddened by the loss of such a dear friend. Doc was truly one of a kind and we shared so many memories with the Fuqua family. Few people leave such an indelible mark.....and Doc was one of them. Our thoughts and prayers to Kathy and family. Peace be with you Doc. The Andersons Martha, Nels (Polly), Sonja (Glenn)"
"Our thoughts and prayers to Kathy and family. John and Tracy Hjelle"
"Kathy, Nick, and Jack...like everyone else, we are sad to hear of Doc's passing, the world is less bright without him in it! He was a wonderful man and we will cherish our memories of him. We love you guys and we will pray for strength and peace in the ensuing days. (Kathy, I'm including a poem that gave us comfort after dad passed.) His Journey?s Just Begun by Ellen Brenneman Don?t think of him as gone away His journey?s just begun, life holds so many facets this earth is only one. Just think of him as resting from the sorrows and the tears in a place of warmth and comfort Where there are no days and years. Think how he must be wishing that we could know today how nothing but our sadness can really pass away. And think of him as living in the hearts of those he touched, For nothing loved is ever lost And he was loved so much."
"Dear Kathy and family: So, so sorry to hear about Doc. Sending love and prayers you way."
"Kathy, Nichols and Jackson, My heartfelt condolences, what a huge loss. Doc was THE most Loving, Friendly, giving individual I have ever been around. He LOVED his family. His contributions to the Hyperbaric Treatment center made it the world-class facility that it is. His dedication to his fellow man was bar none. May your faith keep you strong, he will always be there with you......God Bless"
"So sorry to hear of Docs passing. I pray for peace and comfort to the Fuqua family. My sympathy Greg Slama"
"Kathy, Nick and Jack you have our sympathy. It was so sad to hear of Doc's passing. He was a lover of life and made everyone smile, sometimes I think whether he meant to or not. My favorite Doc story involves a men's night out at the Americana Grill in Decorah. It was crappy beer night (PBR and Hamms tall boys for $1). He joked about crappy beer night also being crappy service night. Service went downhill from there as the waitress was a little close and Doc was a little loud. The only one not smiling was the waitress, but I sure she got a good tip anyway. We are so glad that we got to see you guys recently when we went out to eat with you in Rochester. RIP Doc. Love Jeff and Amy Suhr PS Brad sends his sympathy from somewhere in the Pacific and was glad he saw you guys in Hawaii this winter"
"Lou Thoenes, fellow Navy Diver Doc Fuqua, what a tremendous individual. He shared his positive outlook and zest for life with everyone. Slow down the dune buggy in the desert? No Way!! Representing him as his Lawyer/Counsel at his Chief's initiation was great fun and a highlight of my Naval experiences. I am reminded of his capabilities as a diving medical technician when I see the 3 in. scar, on my hand, where he so aptly put me back together after a diving accident. Oh yes, the diving trip to Portugal where he entertained us all. Yes, he was one of a kind and will be sorely missed and long remembered. Thank you Doc for all you have given us. "
"You cannot see brotherhood; neither can you hear it nor taste it. But you can feel it a hundred times a day. It is the pat on the back when things look gloomy. It is the smile of encouragement when the way seems hard. It is the helping hand when the burden becomes unbearable. Peter E. Terzick Bob, We share in these moments of remembrance and hold you close to our hearts. ?A Brother may not be a Friend, but a Friend will always be a Brother. ? Thomas Jefferson In Brotherly love, Ken Teague"
"Doc was a fabulous man and a dear friend to my husband, Joe. As others have said, he had a presence about him that brought joy wherever he went. I recall him coming to one of our annual Flag Day parties. He showed up with a huge American flag complete with pole and mounting hardware. He smiled as he handed it to me and all I could think was, 'Yikes. Where am I going to put this thing??'. Needless to say we found a spot and that flag has flown on every Flag Day and all American holidays since then! I always think of him and laugh whenever we put it up and now I am sure we will fondly refer to it as 'Doc's Flag'. It?s a fitting symbol for a man who gave so much to this world and a gift I will treasure forever. Our hearts ache with this devastating loss. To Kathy, Nick, Jack, and the rest of Doc's family and friends, we send you all our love and support. Jolaine and Joe Hines "
"I worked with Rob at Mayo. Saddened to hear of his passing. RIP, buddy. Mark Altwegg"
"Kathy, Nick and Jack - your Panama City Beach, Florida family have heavy hearts at the loss of "Doc"... We send prayers and our love that you all may find some strength during this difficult time. I know it will be all of our fondest moments and stories about Doc that will help us get through such an abrupt loss that we are finding so difficult to believe. I think one of the earlier fond memories that I have of Doc was the home-made raft race in Scotland that Doc, Mike, Paul and Dan competed in together. If I remember right, Doc was wearing his bright blue wetsuit during the race. We will miss you very much, Doc. Love always to you- Kathy, Nick and Jack"
"Kathy, We at Saint Mary's University in Winona are so sad to hear of your husband's death. We remember you fondly when you were a graduate student with us and send our thoughts and prayers to you and your family. With sympathy...Melissa Luedtke and the Saint Mary's School of Educaion"
"Kathy, Nick and Jack. . I am so very sorry to hear of Doc's accident and passing. Of all people, it would seem he had so much more to offer life. I remember with great fondness the years you spent in Decorah Schools and visiting with Doc about his new found profession and new chapter. I was sad to see your wonderful family move to Rochester, thank goodness not too far away. God has blessed us with Doc's presences in our lives, so I know his death is leaving a huge hole in your hearts. My love and hugs to you all as you struggle to move forward. Susan Nelson"
"Doc taught diving medicine at The Navy Diving and Salvage Training Center in the early 90s. He was an outstanding Corpseman and a first rate shipmate. Fair winds and following seas."
"There are the few rare folks in this world who truly impact you in a positive way. Doc was one such individual. He came to my Dive locker in Holy Loch, Scotland fresh out of school. He was this tall thin diver with a smile that never left his face. Just a quick story from those days. If it is your first diving command then you could order a custom fit wet suit. Most are solid black in color. Rob asked what were his color restrictions. I told him that as long as it kept him warm I did not care. That was a mistake. Several weeks later this tall ?power ranger? was standing on the back of the dive boat dressed from head to toe in the most brilliant royal blue wet suit I had ever seen. To top it off. He had half sleeves and calf leggings of florescent green. I do not think I have ever witnessed a more spectacular event in my career until he turned around and in the center of his back was a red medical cross. He just looked at me and said with that half cocked silly grin ?what?? He was a fish in the water. An excellent diver and went on to be one of the finest Diving Medical Technicians I have had the pleasure to work with. He followed me to the Navy Dive school in Panama City Florida wher he touched hundreds of divers from all branches of the services and around the world. If you surf Facebook, you can see this in hundreds of comments from around the world. I had the pleasure of seeing Doc and Kathy in Minneapolis last year. I will cherish that short visit. To Kathy...thank you for grounding him. He was head over heals in love with you. You brought true joy into his life. To his sons, relish in the experiences you have had with your father. Few will ever experience what he has given you. As a family....the worst thing is never the last thing. His life was a gift to you and everyone he touched. May God bless you and thank you for sharing this remarkable life. ENCM(MDV) Richard Jones"
"On behalf of the staff at the Mayo Clinic Hyperbaric and Altitude Medicine facility, our heartfelt sympathy goes out to Kathy, Nick, Jack and the rest of your family at this great loss. Rob was a driving force in the original launch of the program and his "handprints" remain on the protocols of safety, and his methods of care for the patient is embedded into the culture of the work done here daily. He was a great man who loved his family, his working teams, and his country. We salute him and remember his smile, hard work, and dedication fondly. Clayton T. Cowl, MD, MS Chair, Division of Preventive, Occupational & Aerospace Medicine Mayo Clinic"
"Kathy, Nick and Jack, I am so sorry for the loss of Doc. Although I hadn't known Doc for that many years, I really loved to spend time with him. Whether it was sharing a beer at a Gophers football game, or a laugh and stories at Whistle Binkies, or paddling down a river in our kayaks he always made things fun. I will never forget when we were on our way to paddle the Cannon river last fall, we were cruising 70 down the highway with our kayaks strapped to the top of our cars, he pulled up along side of me and gave me his famous Grin and a thumbs up sign through the window, as if to say lets get going... I could see him jamming to his music and i turned mine up, I knew it would be a great adventure and it was. While paddling that day I learned how aware and attuned to the environment he was, he would point out hidden deer stands and wildlife I might have otherwise missed, we had a blast! He was a great friend and I will miss him . John Nielsen and Family"
"I?m so sorry and saddened about the sudden loss of sweet, thoughtful, fun-loving Doc. He could light up a room and was always so kind to come by Mom?s house to see her whenever he was in town. We always all loved seeing him. Shirley, Bunny, Audrey, Kim, Nancy, Kathy and boys, you are all in my prayers now and in the difficult days ahead. Hugs to all of you. "
"If men could have a bromate Doc would have been mine. Having said that, if he was here today I would punch him in his face. I?m that angry with him for leaving us way too soon. I know Doc would understand. He would probably give me that "aw shucks" grin and say I deserve it, and it?s ok to be mad. He would understand that anger is a sign of how much we love him. All the undone plans we had for when he and Kathy retired and lived in Panama City Beach. We would be sneaking out for beers, or Captain Morgan, attempting to play volleyball on the beach and generally irritating our spouses. I?m sure many of us have seen American Pie with the famous line ?One time in band camp.? Those of us here will understand when I say ?One time with Doc.? Those stories are endless from me looking at Doc and Kathy sitting against the gym wall one Monday night and saying ?Jeez Bob, just ask her out already. It?s the last game we only have ten players if you two don?t join us.? Or one of their first dates whith Andrea and me, and Doc and Kathy canoeing and having to sit under a bridge due to a summer thunderstorm. Or all those Fudpuckers (Volleyball tournament) moments. Then there was Doc and Kathy?s wedding with Bob going to the hospital after spending all night sick with fear from pre-wedding jitters, and then standing beside him on the altar and hearing him say ?I?ve got to poop.? ?Do you think I have time?? This just seconds before the wedding march started. I remember saying ?I don?t think they can start without you." From hand grenades in Portugal, to diving through glass windows in Scotland, paying Bakeesh (bribes) to go places in the Egyptian ruins you were not supposed to be in, dancing on the volleyball courts, playing beach doubles for more years then I want to admit without winning one tournament, to his marriage and the birth of his sons. There?s so many more stories we could fill out a book so I?ll stop here plus I don?t know the statute of limitations of some of those incidents. I heard a speaker once that said your life is but one second long. The one behind you is the past and the one coming up is your future. I never met a person so living his life so perfectly in the moment. From 1986 I have been proud to call Bobby my friend and my brother. And from 1991 I?ve been thankful for Kathy as I am sure Bob would have been gone long before this if she hadn?t come along and straightened him out. Fair winds and following seas Doc. You will be greatly missed... "
"Fuqua family, I met Rob while he was a NICC student and then when he started as a staff nurse at Winneshiek Medical Center. His smile and attitude was contagious. There are so few people that embrace life and learning like Rob did. Everyday was an adventure--he was an absolute joy to work with. He will be missed."
"Fuqua Family, Sonny and I send our condolences for your unspeakable loss. May your wonderful memories, deep faith and family love comfort you now and in the difficult times ahead. Please remember you will be reunited someday and til then Dr Bob will hold him close. God bless your family during the sad days ahead. With Caring and Prayers, Christy and Sonny Hall"
"Kathy, Nick and Jack and all of you family,
I am so sorry to hear about the sudden passing of Doc. Kathy I remember when you first met him and were 'head over heals' in love. You both prove there is such a thing as soul mates. Your joy and happiness as a couple and then a family was always present. Words cannot take away the pain of losing the love of your life, but you need to reach into your memories and find laughter about all the good times you had. Tears are ever present and they will come at some of the most unpredictable times. Go with it and find a way to feel Doc's presence. It may be a song, a fragrance, a photo, a place you shared or sometimes a quiet moment you shared. Love to you and reach out to family and friends. We don't always know what to do, but sometimes just a hug or a shoulder is just what you need. Finally there is no time table for grief. Take it one hour, one day, one week at a time. Thoughts and prayers to you. Love Dawn"
"Dear Mrs. Shirley Fuqua and family,
I am so sorry to hear of your son's passing. praying for the family"
"Dear Kathy, Nicholas, Jackson; and family and loved ones of Rob. I was stunned and deeply grieved to hear of Rob's accident and sudden passing. I can't imagine what you've gone through these last few days! I met Rob I think now over 15 years ago. We became immediate friends and had many things to share in common with our similar work in hyperbaric medicine. Rob had a magnetism about him, especially with that warm inviting smile, that made you want to be around him. He loved to share ideas and collaborate. For a while, I worked directly with Rob at the Mayo Clinic. I was so impressed with what a fantastic job he had done in getting that newly installed chamber and all the mechanical and technical aspects so well organized. He loved that job and he did it with his heart. One thing I always knew about Rob was that he had a wife and two boys he adored. His wife, Kathy and two boys, Nicholas and Jackson, we're something he would just beam about when ever any discussion came up about his family. He was so proud of his them and they were a real foundation and source of strength to Rob. Rob also mentioned at times his faith in God. I pray that God will give you comfort to know that he is with the Lord and many wonderful memories of a loving husband and father. Sincerely and with warm regards, Bill Gossett"
"Doc and I first met in 1982, on our way to basic training. We immediately became friends and no matter where we found ourselves in the world, he always made the effort to stay in touch. The world has lost a role model husband, father, son, brother, and friend and he will be sorely missed by us all. However, every time I feel like sinking into sadness and grief, I am lifted up by a sense of overwhelming gratitude for having the gift of his friendship for 36 years. I have no doubt that Heaven got a little brighter with his arrival! Brother, we will see you again on the other side..."
"Dear Mrs. Shirley Fuqua and family, I am so sorry to hear of your son's passing. Years ago when I was in high school and college I worked at Wyndall's on Scherm Road where you did your grocery shopping. You kept us informed on your families goings on and your children would be in and out as they were home from school or you sent them for errands. Your son would just say, my mom is Shirley she told me to charge this! He was always very polite. What an incredible man he became. Tammy Vernon"
"Kathy & family, I don't have words other than to say how much my heart aches for you. I had the privilege of meeting Doc on a couple of occasions, with the most stand out memory being him volunteering with our work group at Channel One last fall. What a great guy! Kathy, please know that your work family is surrounding you with much love through these days and all the days ahead. "
"Doc your military shipmates missed you when you retired, now all will miss you now. My God make you smile as he brings you into his house! "
"Bobby Doc Fuqua was a character of the highest order. Wherever he was good times were sure to follow. Whenever I thought of him over the years those thoughts always brought a smile to my face. He was a great guy."
"Fair winds and following seas Doc, We have the watch. "
"Bunny, your brother sounds like he was a very special man that God put on this earth for very good reasons. We need more people like him. I am glad for him that he is with our Lord even though he will be missed by many. God bless you and your family. "
"My thoughts and prayers are with Doc's family. Doc was always so much fun to be around. That incredible smile and outgoing personality made him a special person and friend. I have alot of fond memories with Doc and feel very blessed to have known him. He will be very missed."
"Kim, I am so sorry to hear about your brother , Doc. As the only boy surrounded by sisters you always talked so fondly about him when we were roommates at WKU and of course when I met him I quickly learned why you thought so highly of him. Prayers for you, Audrey, Bunny, Nancy and your mom. "
"My condolences to Doc's family and friends. I had the honor to briefly work with him the FMC Rochester and found him to be ga wonderful and friendly person just a the obituary stated. Stephen Baker PA-C"
"Jerry Bodenbender EN Fraternity WKU HP 326 Doc was a Great Guy and Brother, we were roomates in Frat House. Will be Missed Greatly! Doc Story! Just a little bit of drinking going on one evening at the house. Doc was asked to go to the food mart behind the house and get a couple guys, that were pretty well lit, a couple orders of 3 Chilli Dogs for a dollar. Doc does this task and returns. Well the brother who ordered the Chilli Dogs started tearing into those Chilli Dogs, devouring them. Then each brother eating the Chilli Dogs started chouting to Doc. ?WHY ARE THESE CHILLI DOGS SOOO CRUNCHY Doc???? Doc?s response ? OOOOHH I FORGOT TO TELL YOU GUYS - I DROPPED THE CHILLI DOGS IN THE GRAVEL DRIVEWAY ON THE WAY BACK TO THE HOUSE!!! Typical Doc, Hilarious Guy!!! Great Friend!"
"Love and prayers from the other Marilyn Ann Wahlberg and family!! Wishing you all find some peace in the happy memories of Doc!!?"
"When I saw Little Doc in May, he met me with open arms and a big hug. I said it is so good to see you Little Doc, and he said, you are about the only one who calls me that anymore, and with that big smile and and another big hug, he said, however, ?I really do like it? Love this cousin, and love the family. I am praying for all of you, and thinking of each of you with a heavy heart. Kathy, the boys, Aunt Shirley, and sisters, we are going to miss ?Little Doc?"
"I'm saddened to hear the tragic news, but can attest that Doc did more living in his 58 years than most people squeeze into 100. We had lots of fun waterskiing at Lake Cumberland and borrowing quite a few beers from some strangers when we were way too young to know better. My thoughts are with Shirley and Doc's family."
"Kathy; I am truly sorry to hear about the loss of your loving Doc. I pray you and your sons and all those who loved him will find comfort in all the wonderful memories you have with him. You are all on my mind and in my heart and prayers. I am looking forward to hearing about all of the loving stories you and others share about him in the future. May God Bless you and comfort you during this difficult time. Sincerely Pam Kerr (Randy)"
"Belinda Whitehorn-Taylor My Deepest sympathy goes out to Rob's family and friends. I had the honor to work with Rob at FMC. He was an amazing man full of integrity, fun, love, and happiness. One thing for sure is, he definitely lived life to its fullest like no other! God has definitely gained an amazing Angel! You will never be forgotten BIG GUY! Love you you much!"
"Just wanted to add, Rob had such a kind heart, soul. He always said ?hello I-J? every time I saw him. Super nice guy. Many prayers to Kathy, Nick and Jack. "
"I will always remember Rob. I worked with him at FMC doing direct care for 2-3 years. I also was on the Planning Section Team with him. My heart truly aches for him and his family. May he Rest In Peace. ???"
"My deepest sympathies to the Fuqua family. I taught Doc nursing at Northeast Iowa Community College in Calmar, Iowa when he was pursuing his Associates Degree in Nursing. I always enjoyed his contributions to the classroom. May he Rest In Peace."
"Kathy and family ~ words can not express my deepest sympathies. My heart is with you during this difficult time. May God's love surround you. Kindly, Marilyn"
"Doc, you were the BEST brother a sister could ever have. I will miss your great smile, your laughter, your advice,your support but mostly your love. You will always be in my heart forever, and never forgotten. Doc, you are with the Lord and Daddy Bob now. God Bless You, my sweet brother. I love you to the moon and back!!!!"
"Doc, you were the BEST brother a sister could ever have. I will miss your great smile, your laughter, your advice,your support but mostly your love. You will always be in my heart forever, and never forgotten. Doc, you are with the Lord and Daddy Bob now. God Bless You, my sweet brother. I love you to the moon and back!!!!"
"I briefly got to know Rob when he worked in Hyperbaric Medicine at Mayo Clinic, and then again as I work with his wife Kathy now. Such a fun, loving family. Rob always brought laughs to any conversation and brightened the office when he came in. My prayers go out to Kathy and their two sons--I am so incredibly sorry for your loss."
"I had the privilege of being one of Doc?s nursing instructors at NICC. I truly believe he taught me more about life than I ever taught him about nursing. He was a gentle genuine man. So so sorry got your loss."
"Kathy, Nick, Jack, Marilyn and all of Doc's family- We grieve with you at the sudden loss of a man who brightened the lives of others with his smile, genuine interest in people, energy for life and a joy for each day. Doc lived a life that mattered and made a difference in the world. May we offer you the same love and support during these painful times. Praying for God's peace to embrace each of you."
"Doc was definitely one of a kind. Always smiling and laughing any time you would see him. I am so very sorry and saddened for the loss of a great person. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family, especially his mother, wife, and children. He will be dearly missed. Debbie Trodglen Hatcher. "
"Doc was so loved by his many friends in Owensboro. He will be remembered for his joy of life. Ann Horrell Gibson"
"I'm so glad I had the opportunity to work with you. You were more than a co-worker, you were a genuine friend who always placed others before yourself. You're the only person I know who would cross country ski on the way into work and bring champagne to celebrate the new year. [You almost brought the real stuff lol] You knew instantly if something was bothering someone and you had an instant way of brightening their day with your presence. I'll always remember your gentle half hugs, the way you always had time to say hello "Molly" [Hi Bobby] You said the only other person that called you Bobby was your grandma and it was ok I called you that too. I felt so connected to you. It is with tremendous sadness I say goodbye. Fair winds and a following sea... My heartfelt sympathies to you Kathy, sons Nick and Jack. Molly Haynes "
"Doc will forever be in my heart and my mind. From the time I met him in 6th grade when the Fuqua's moved next door, I have loved that big-hearted guy! I'll never forget when I met Kathy and the boys in Owensboro (we always checked with our moms when we went back to our hometown if the other was home). One of the boys walked in with Luther College sweatpants when he was just a toddler and my husband, Mike, was shocked. He asked how they knew of Luther College. It turns out we both married someone from Decorah, Iowa! Then, in typical Doc fashion, he walks into St. Ben's at my father-in-law's funeral in Decorah in early 2015 (after they moved to Rochester) and surprises us with his love and support. He was SO loved by everyone he met. My heart and my prayers are with Kathy, Nick, and Jack as well as Shirley, Bunny, Audrey, Kim, Nancy, and their families. Rest in eternal peace, Doc."
"Doc was a wonderful man. The world lost a great one. My heart goes out to Kathy, Nick, Jack and all the family. Ken and Lisa Linn"
"There was not a single person who met Doc who did not immediately respond to his warm and positive personality. I fondly remember how kind (and inspirational) Doc was to the Nursing students that he worked with and the many times that he made me laugh. Words cannot express how deeply sad we are at Doc's untimely death. Deepest condolences Kathy to you, to your boys and to all Doc's family. The world doesn't feel the same without him. Jayme (& Dan) Nelson"
"That warm, inviting, generous, contagious SMILE is forever in my mind and memory.... so THANKFUL Mike introduced me to Doc. His hugs will be missed as well. Prayers and Condolences Lisa Pelowski "