Robert Schilling

Robert J. (Bob) Schilling, 86, of Albuquerque, NM, passed away Mar. 17, one year and one day after the passing of his wife Betty.

Bob was born on April 11, 1927, in Greene County, to John Edmund Schilling and Mary Malinda Baker. He served aboard the troop transport ship USS General John Pope in the U.S. Navy during WWII. Bob married Betty Kiner on June 27, 1948, and together they had three children: Jeri Ann, Jo Ellen and John Robert. They lived on a farm near Jefferson.

In 1960 they moved to New Mexico and raised their family in several different communities around the state.

Bob worked as a Civil Engineering Technician for the USDA Soil Conservation Service throughout New Mexico, training many other engineers and technicians over the years. He retired from federal service in 1989. After retirement Bob and Betty moved back to Albuquerque which served as home base for their many travel adventures to destinations including Europe, Panama Canal, Mexico, Hawaii and Alaska. Bob enjoyed being active and always had a number of projects to keep him busy. Gardening was one of his passions. He planted and tended a yard full of red roses for Betty to whom he was married for 64 years. He was involved in his neighborhood association and also served several years as a polling station election official.

Bob is survived by daughter Jo E. Schilling and spouse Judy Polenske, of Edmonds, WA; son John R. Schilling and his wife Martha of Englewood, CO, and their children: John E. Schilling II of Tucson, AZ, Rachel Schilling of Albuquerque, Emily Schilling and David Schilling of Englewood, CO; son-in-law Matt Smith of Albuquerque; as well as many additional relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his wife Betty and their eldest daughter Jeri Smith.

Bob was comforted by Gentiva Hospice of Albuquerque and the family has requested any memorial donations be directed to its charitable foundation: The Gentiva Hospice Foundation, 7801 Mesquite Bend Drive, Suite 105, Irving, TX 75063 or to the charity of your choice.

At Bob’s request, there will be no funeral services. Cremation will be provided by Daniel’s Funeral Home.