Robert Schwendenman was born in Cincinnati, Ohio on May 31, 1921. He was the third of four sons in the family of John & Lulu Schwendenman. Bob attended the University of Cincinnati in 1939 to become a physical education teacher; but in 1942, before he completed the program, he was called into service. He served 39 months in the Army Air Corp, was in the European Theatre for 25 months and was discharged as a Technical Sargent in Nov. 1945. In 1947 he went to work for Equifax, Inc. as an insurance investigator. He also enrolled in night law school and in 1952 received a law degree. He was promoted to Regional Office Manager in Youngstown, Ohio in 1955 and in 1958 was transferred to Peoria, IL. He remained in that city in management with Equifax until retirement in 1982 after 36 years of service. Bob & Marge moved to Lakeland, FL in 1987 and became one of the early residents of the Sandpiper community.
In 1946, friends introduced Bob to Marjorie Schlecht. It was quickly apparent that this was the love of his life. They were married in 1947 and the marriage lasted 65 happy years until Marge’s death in 2012. They had two daughters, Barbara Rocke and Deborah Brantley. Their husbands are Ronald Rocke and Robert Brantley. He also took great pride in three grandchildren, Dustin Rocke, Kate Rocke and Shannon Shultz, and 3 great grandchildren.
Bob was an enthusiastic sports fan who still rooted for the University of Cincinnati. He was an avid golfer and walker and enjoyed playing Bridge. Bob & Marge joined North Lakeland Presbyterian Church in 1995. Both were very much involved in the church. Bob was Chairman of the Building Committee for the new Sanctuary and considered this to be one of his most important and gratifying opportunities. He also served as treasurer of the Church.
Bob had a great love for his wife and family and considered himself very fortunate to have lived such a long and happy life.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to:
Achor House Ministries
P.O. Box 625
Auburndale, FL 33823
or go to Anchor-House.org
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