Lieutenant Colonel James Robert Puhr Sr., USA-Ret., passed away Feb. 19 singing songs and making wisecracks until the end. He was surrounded by his family and died at home.

Bob was born on March 20, 1929, in Independence, Mo., to Mary Elizabeth O’Maley Puhr and Julius Michael Puhr, one of six children. He grew up in a large extended family, all working hard on the family farm. He spent his free time playing baseball, his passion, and went on to play semi-pro.

He graduated from Rockhurst High School, received his undergraduate degree from the University of Maryland and a master in business administration from Wayne State University.

Bob began his Army career in 1951, retiring as a lieutenant colonel after 20 years. His tours of duty included Korea and Vietnam. He was awarded the Bronze Star, the Air Medal, the Legion of Merit, the Presidential Unit Citation and many other commendations. He and his family had two tours of duty in Germany and traveled all over Europe. After retiring from the Army, he worked for the General Services Administration.

Bob married Noami Petrie on Oct. 4, 1952, in Independence, Mo. They were married for 64 years and had five children.

Bob retired at 55 and moved to Nova Scotia, Canada, the home of his wife, where he and his family had spent many fun-filled summers. He enjoyed trout fishing, golf, square dancing and puttering around his property in Big Harbor. Some of his happiest moments were spent in the company of the extended Petrie family.

Naomi and Bob eventually settled on Whidbey Island and were active in many community groups. He was an avid bridge player, square danced with the Whidbey Whirlers, performed community service with the Central Whidbey Lions Club, sold his home grown produce at the Coupeville Farmer’s Market, and went crabbing with his buddies. He was very proud of all his grandchildren, especially Kirsten and Brendan, with whom he was especially close.

Bob was a devout Roman Catholic and a member of St. Mary parish in Coupeville. He was instrumental in forming the St. Mary Council Knights of Columbus. He had the honor of the fourth degree of the Knights of Columbus. He will always be remembered for selling tickets for various parish events to support church activities. He was an honorable and good man, husband, father, grandfather and friend.

Bob is survived by his wife Naomi; his children James Robert Puhr Jr. (Gail McEvoy), Mary Irene Puhr (Lee Roof), Paul Michael Puhr, Stephen Patrick Puhr and Gregory John Puhr Sr.; and his grandchildren Brendan Roof, Kirsten Roof, Sarah Puhr, Colleen Puhr, Gregory Puhr Jr., Thomas Puhr, Ashliegh Puhr and Eamonn McEvoy, as well as many dear friends.

The funeral was held at 10 a.m. Friday, Feb. 24, at St. Mary Catholic Church in Coupeville. Internment will be at Sunnyside Cemetery. A reception followed at St. Mary’s social hall. A viewing was held on Thursday, Feb. 23, at Wallin Funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be given to Central Whidbey Lions Club or the Knights of Columbus St. Mary Council. The Puhr family wishes to thank St. Mary Catholic Church, Dr. Chris Bibby and staff, WhidbeyHealth Medical Center and Hospice and especially the wonderful staff at Regency on Whidbey for their support and care.