Robert "Bob" Bethke, age 80, of DeFuniak Springs, Florida, passed away peacefully on June 13, 2026.

Bob was born on July 21, 1945, at Eglin Air Force Base, Florida, to Aurel Bethke and Gertrude Schwiderski Bethke. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend whose life was marked by hard work, unwavering faith, and a deep love for his family.

For more than 40 years, Bob worked as a sales manager in the timber industry. Throughout his career, he earned the respect and admiration of coworkers, customers, and friends alike for his exceptional work ethic, attention to detail, and dedication to doing every job well. Those who knew Bob often smile when remembering his trademark shirt pocket, which was always filled with pens, notes, reminders, and protected by his faithful pocket protector. It was his personal command center, a place where he kept track of the countless tasks, ideas, and responsibilities that mattered to him. To many, it became one of the most memorable symbols of the organized, dependable man they knew and loved.

Outside of work, Bob found great joy in caring for his property. Yard work was not merely a hobby, it was a passion. Armed with his beloved John Deere tractor and an assortment of attachments, Bob could often be found trimming hedges, maintaining his grounds, or tending to one of his many outdoor projects. One of his favorite activities was wood chipping, which he affectionately referred to as "Burzing". Family and friends often heard him say, "I'm going burzing today," knowing that he would spend the day happily transforming brush and limbs into neat piles of mulch. His yard reflected the pride he took in his work and the satisfaction he found in a job done right.

Bob also enjoyed firearms and target shooting, another pastime that brought him great enjoyment throughout the years.

Above all else, Bob was a man of steadfast faith. His trust in Jesus Christ never wavered. For decades, he faithfully attended church every Sunday, only missing services during the final months of his illness when his health no longer allowed him to attend. Even then, his commitment to his faith remained strong, and he continued receiving communion at his bedside. His Christian faith guided every aspect of his life, as a husband, father, worker, neighbor, and friend and served as the foundation upon which he built his life.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Aurel Bethke and Gertrude Schwiderski Bethke.

He leaves behind to cherish his memory his beloved wife, Shirley Busbee Bethke; his son, William Bethke and wife Margaret; his daughter, Cassie Howard and husband John; his cherished grandchildren, Jesse Jernigan and Gavin Howard; his treasured great-granddaughter, Camree Jernigan; and his sister, Diane Ragusa. His grandchildren lovingly knew him as "Poppy," a title he wore with great pride and affection. Bob is also survived by an abundance of extended family members, including numerous nieces, nephews, and dear friends whose lives were enriched by his kindness, wisdom, and example.

The family finds comfort in knowing that Bob's faith has become sight and that he is now at peace in the presence of his Lord and Savior.

Funeral services for Robert "Bob" Bethke will be announced soon by Evans Funeral Home.