Robert E. John, Sr.
Robert Eugene John, 77, passed away April 17, 2016, after a 2 1/2 year brave battle against 2 aggressive cancers. Stage 4 Prostate cancer was diagnosed in December 2013 and in March 2015 he was diagnosed with Dedifferentiated Retroperitoneal Liposarcoma. He received the name “Rockstar” because he truly shined and left us speechless at how he tolerated and rebounded from the treatments and surgery. Against all odds, he put on a brave face for his family, that he loved so dearly. He never gave up and remained hopeful.
He was born in Dayton, Ohio, and proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy. He was proud to be on the Inaugural and 2nd Mediterranean cruise of the USS Saratoga. While in the Navy, he met his beloved wife of 56 years. They resided in Jacksonville & Fruit Cove, Florida for the past 39 years.
Robert (Bob) was truly loved and respected by all that knew him. He spent his career in I.T. beginning at Prudential, Elder Beerman, Allstate Pipe Supply, AT&T and Citicorp. Upon retirement, Bob became a Master Gardener and avid Beekeeper. Gardening was always his passion and he loved nature. He also loved sharing his vast knowledge of many, many subjects. He taught Beekeeping classes at the St. Augustine Agriculture Center and also loved to share with the Elementary Schools. Bob had so many talents, there wasn’t much he couldn’t do. Bob was always willing to help anyone that needed it. It was hard NOT to love him and he will be truly missed by all of his family and friends. He was always smiling and the life of the party. The world will not be the same without him.