Robert R. Spees

Robert R. Spees, 86, Lake Nebagamon, died Saturday, March 29, 2008, at St. Mary’s Medical Center in Duluth, surrounded by his family.

Bob was born May 11, 1921, in Dubuque, Iowa, to the late Benjamin and Anna (Washkowitz) Spees.

After high school, Bob joined the Army Air Force from Jan. 27, 1942, until Nov. 17, 1945, serving as an airplane engine mechanic. He earned the Good Conduct Medal, American Theater Service Ribbon, one Service Stripe and the WWII Victory Campaign Medal.

Robert met his wife, Lena Bland, while stationed at Myrtle Beach Air Force Base. They married June 16, 1944. Robert and Tillie enjoyed 63 years of marriage. Robert worked in the brew house for Miller Brewing. He retired in 1981 after 311?2 years of faithful service.

Bob and Tillie moved to Lake Nebagamon in 1981. Bob was an avid reader enjoying all the books that were sent to him by his children. He and Tillie loved to drive around the area and enjoy looking at nature and enjoyed each others’ company.

Survivors include his wife, Tillie Spees of Lake Nebagamon; four children, Donna (Christopher) Arkowski-Korch, Colorado Springs, Colo., Robert Rhett Spees Jr., Fayetteville, Ark., Deborah (James) Ainslie, Poquoson, Va., Rodney (Delores) Spees, Sarasota, Fla.; eight grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; two brothers, Daniel (Flora) Spees of New Lisbon and John (Tina) Spees, Rhinelander; and one sister, Betty Hale, Lake Mills

He was preceded in death by one son, Matthew Spees, 1981, and three brothers.

At Robert’s request private memorial services will be held at a later date.

The Brown Funeral Home and Cremation Service of Solon Springs assisted the Spees family with arrangements. Online condolences may be shared at www.brownfuneralhome.net.

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