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Robert E. Heath II
Posted
Sun City, AZ - Robert E. Heath II, known affectionately as Bob, peacefully passed away at Hospice of the Valley on April 8th, 2023. He was born in Auburn, New York, on October 14, 1942, the eldest child of Robert and Lucile Heath. Bob spent his formative years in Sandy Creek, NY, and was a proud alumnus of Sandy Creek Central High School. He continued his educational journey at Manhattan College in New York City, where he earned a degree in Electrical Engineering and was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant in the Air Force. During his distinguished career in the Air Force, Bob furthered his academic pursuits, obtaining a Master's degree in Ground Guidance and Control Theory, as well as a Ph.D. in Aeronautical Engineering from the Air Force Institute of Technology. Following his 20 years of dedicated service, he transitioned to the defense industry, contributing his expertise and knowledge. In 1999, Bob and his beloved wife, Shari, relocated to Sun City, Arizona, where he became an active member of the Sun City Computer Club. Bob's passion for teaching and community involvement shone brightly as he served on the board and shared his wealth of knowledge. Additionally, Bob was a lifelong stamp collector and dedicated countless hours to volunteer work, particularly at the USO and the Navigator program at Sky Harbor Airport where he accrued of 5600 hours of service. Together, Bob and Shari explored the world aboard cruise ships and cherished their annual escapes to their favorite destination, Maui. Bob is survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Shari Heath of Sun City, and their two children, Robert Heath III and his wife Suzette of Sun City, and Holly Heath, also of Sun City. He is further survived by his siblings, Douglas Heath and wife Julie of Ekiah, CA, Joseph Heath and wife Tarki of Tully, NY, Donald Heath and wife Georgianne of Aston, PA, and Mary Lu (Heath) Love and husband Ken of Walpole, MA, along with numerous nieces and nephews. A celebration of Bob's life will be held on October 14th from 1-3 pm at the Fairway Recreation Center in Sun City, AZ. Family and friends will gather to share stories of their cherished moments with Bob, sipping his famous hand-squeezed orange juice and savoring his favorite cookies. Bob will be laid to rest overlooking the majestic Pacific ocean at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific in Honolulu, Hawaii. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the USO Arizona, 3800 E Sky Harbor Blvd, USO Center, Phoenix, AZ 85034 (www.arizona.uso.org) in Bob's honor. Bob will forever be remembered for his unwavering dedication to his family, his community, and his passions, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to inspire and uplift all who knew him.