It is with profound love and sadness that the family of Robert (Bob) Leslie Boettcher announce his passing on September 6, 2020 at the age of 81. Bob passed away peacefully in his home surrounded by his loving family.
Bob was born on April 16, 1939 to Clarence and Jeanette Boettcher in Chicago, Illinois. After graduating from Lane Tech High School in 1957, he served as a Corpsman in the United States Navy where he developed a love for aviation medicine and later a love for general aviation that led to his lifetime career as a commercial airline pilot.
In 1967, Bob met Jeanne Bunten at an Arthur Murray dance class. They were married on June 21, 1969 and went on to have two daughters, Jennifer and Kristen. Bob loved and was fiercely devoted to his family. No matter the current economy or bankrupt airline, Bob was determined to care for his family and no sacrifice was too great. Because of this he held a few interesting jobs along the way that served to add material for his wonderful sense of humor.
Bob enjoyed and was passionate about many things in life but one of his great loves was music, especially choral music. Bob was a member of at least one choir in every place that he lived including, Chicago, Illinois; while in the Navy; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; Naperville, Illinois; Park City, Utah; and finally, Crossville, Tennessee.
Following his retirement, Bob and Jeanne moved to Crossville, Tennessee where Bob continued to be active in his community and make many dear friends. Bob’s faith was very important to him and he was an active member of Central Baptist Church where he participated and served in the Celebration Choir, Senior Choir, and Kids ‘n Music program. He was also a member of the Cumberland County Community Chorus and the Tansi Men’s Fellowship. Another of Bob’s passions was his fervent love for and loyalty to his country. He remained vigilant in trying to stand up for the freedom’s provided by the United States Constitution. He was a proud member of the District 6 Patriot’s, John Birch Society, Tea Party, and the NRA.
Bob will be lovingly remembered by his wife and best friend of 51 years, Jeanne; daughters Jennifer (Brian) Johansen and Kristen (Gerry) Smith; grandchildren, Amy (Taylor), Ryan, Allison (Justin), Kevin (Kaelin), Megan, Ashley, Garrett, Nathan, and Camille; great-grand daughter, Bailey; Sister, Marilyn (Larry) Troxell and family; and other cherished family and friends. Bob is preceded in death by his parents, Clarence and Jeanette Boettcher.
Visitation will be held Saturday, September 26, 2020 at 2:00pm at Central Baptist Church, 1346 S. Main St, Crossville, TN 38555. Memorial service will immediately follow at 3:00pm.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Bob’s honor to the Children’s Wing of Central Baptist Church, 1346 S. Main St, Crossville, TN, 38555.