Robert Welzant

Robert (Bob) Welzant, 80, left this life peacefully and surrounded by his family on September 19, 2016. Born in Baltimore, Maryland on May 9, 1936 to Roman and Genevieve Welzant, Bob was the oldest of three children. When he was 15 years-old, he secretly enlisted in the military and was almost immediately sent to Korea where he was shot in the line of duty. Upon learning of his true age, the military hastily shipped him back to his shocked and worried parents. He later reenlisted to fight in Vietnam and served for 22 more years before retiring. He then started a career with the State of Florida that lasted for the next 20 years. On July 20, 1957 Joan Coleman pledged her love and heart to the navy sailor and thus began their lives together. Bob said, “Seeing her on our wedding day, I just couldn’t believe she was mine.” Military life kept them on the move but eventually they settled and made Green Cove Springs, Florida home in 1965. He is survived by his wife, Joan Welzant, his children Michael Welzant, Mary (Greg) Bauer, Robin (Randy) Pulliam and Linda Welzant; brother Martin (Ginger) Welzant and was preceded in death by sister Nancy Welzant Gavin and parents Roman and Genevieve. Bob also leaves behind many beautiful grandchildren and great grandchildren. Bob belonged to the VFW Post 1988 and was very active for many years. He was best known for; silly jokes (only sometimes funny), telling a good story (only sometimes true), wearing his veteran hat everywhere, being obsessed with lottery scratch offs, Swedish fish, old westerns (especially those which included John Wayne), playing Santa at Christmas (the grumpy kind), dancing whenever possible (he was really good), Sunday breakfast with his children, holding Joanie’s hand, and most of all loving his family and flag and all they stand for. He was especially cherished and will be greatly missed. Visitation for family and friends will be held at Broadus Raines Funeral Home Chapel on Friday, September 23rd from 6-8pm. A service will be held the following day September 24th at 10am at the Sacred Heart Catholic Mission Church in Green Cove Springs. Immediately following the service, the family request friends join them for food and fellowship at Hickory Grove Baptist Church. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Clay County Humane Society, 2230 Filmore Street, Orange Park, FL 32065.