Robert M. Derfler's Obituary
Robert (Bob) M. Derfler, formerly of Belleville, Illinois, passed away at age 96 on July 22, 2018. Bob was born on February 14, 1922, in St. Louis, Missouri.
Bob was a veteran of World War II and served with the Eighth Army Air Force as a top turret gunner on a B-17. Among his awards was the Distinguished Flying Cross.
Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Bernice (O'Keefe) Derfler; his former wife, Lorna (Gaddes) Derfler of Surrey, England; his brother and sister-in-law, Donald and Rose Ann (Hopkins) Derfler; his brother, R. Pat Derfler; and his grandson, Frank Derfler.
Surviving are his sons, Robert F. (Ann) Derfler of Rickman, Tennessee, and Ronald T. Derfler of Phoenix, Arizona; and a daughter, Lorna (Allen) Mazzuca of Fredericksburg, Virginia, with whom he made his home over the last seven years. Also surviving are his sister, Jean (Donald) Forhan; sister-in-law, Roselle (Genetti) Derfler; grandchildren, Corey Derfler, Michael (Amy) Derfler, Cheri Derfler, Hayley (Matthew) Midgette, and Aubrie Kiel; great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Bob was dearly loved and we will always carry his memory in our hearts.
A committal service where Bob’s remains will be placed into a columbarium will take place at 10:00 a.m. Monday, April 22, 2019 in Arlington National Cemetery.
What’s your fondest memory of Robert?
What’s a lesson you learned from Robert?
Share a story where Robert's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Robert you’ll never forget.
How did Robert make you smile?