Robert (Bob) Gehlken
Born on January 19, 1938 in Charleston, South CarolinaDeparted on July 2, 2025, in Melbourne, Florida
On Wednesday, July 2, 2025, Robert (Bob) Gehlken, age 87, passed away in Melbourne, Florida surrounded by his family. Bob was born in Charleston, South Carolina to Herbert and Eleanor Gehlken.
He proudly served in the USAF and was stationed in Germany. After his discharge, he moved to Maryland where he met the love of his life, Jean. They were married for 51 years. Bob worked in construction for most of his career and was a superintendent for the construction of many buildings in the DC area. He later went to work for the Metro transit system where he later retired.
Bob valued education and earned two master’s degrees and a Doctorate in Public Administration. He was an adjutant professor and taught graduate classes for Central Michigan University and Florida Institue of Technology.
He loved spending time with his grandchildren and great grandchildren and was known as Poppa G. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife Jean. He is survived by his son Robert Gehlken II and daughter Krista Gehlken-Butts (Rob), grandchildren Rachel (Josh) and LeeAnne (Sean), his great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.
A private ceremony will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Alzheimer’s Association.
