Obituary of Robert birkenmeyer

Robert L. Birkenmeyer, 64, of Zion, formerly of Lindenhurst, Illinois, died on Saturday, November 15, 2008 at Vista Medical Center in Waukegan. Robert was born February 28, 1944 in Crystal City, Missouri, graduated from Crystal City High School, entered the Navy, and retired after 20 years as Chief Petty Officer. Following retirement, he became a Navy technical instructor for San Diego Community College at Great Lakes, retiring in 2003. Survivors include his beloved wife of 37 years, Claudia; children James L. (Denise) Birkenmeyer of Crystal City, Missouri, Donald M. (Fiancé Leann) Birkenmeyer of Brookfield, Missouri, Michelle (Ramon) Omes of Shreveport, Louisiana, Melissa (Kevin) Flemming of Springfield, Illinois and Robin Wade of Zion, Illinois; fourteen grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; siblings, Lawrence John (Joyce) Birkenmeyer of Kenosha, Wisconsin, Barbara Baker of Arnold, Missouri, Debbie (Larry) Heushon of Waterloo, Illinois and Russell Smith of St. Louis, Missouri; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. He was preceded in death by his father, Lawrence Birkenmeyer; and his mother and step-father, Gladys and Garth Smith. Visitation will be Wednesday, November 19, 2008, from 4:00 until 6:00 p.m. with a funeral service following at 6:00 p.m. at the CONGDON FUNERAL HOME, 3012 Sheridan Road, Zion, and private cremation to follow.