Robert Best

Robert J. (Bobby) Best passed away on March 31, 2014 at Hospice of Citrus in Inverness. Pre-deceased by his son Robert Jr.  He was born on March 22, 1926 in Jersey City, NJ to the late Lilly and Robert Best.  The family  moved to Elizabeth, NJ when he was four years old.  He was educated in the Elizabeth Public Schools and graduated from Thomas Jefferson High School.  He enlisted in the United States Marine Corps when he was seventeen and served with the First Marine Air Wing, MAG 25.  He attended the United States Navy Bomb Disposal School at the American University in Washington, D.C. and for a period of time was on the staff there.  He served in the Pacific Theater and in the repatriation of the Japanese from Northern China.  He became a mechanic and equipment designer and was part of the design team on early nuclear and missile firing submarines and also the early man in space program.  He finished his work career as Chief Draftsman of Research, Development and Manufacturing for Airco Welding Products and International Gases in Union, NJ. He served three terms as Mayor of Passaic Township, NJ, served seven years as the Township Committeeman, and ten years as a Planning Board Member.  He was a Charter Member of American Legion Memorial Post 484 in that township.  He and his wife Blanche retired to Port Charlotte, FL in 1984 and resided there until 1998 when they moved to Floral City, FL.  He leaves to mourn the love of his life Blanche whom he was so devoted too. Also his very dear friends Al DeMarco, Avril Dowds and George Dalton and his neighbors in Floral City.

Robert’s family will receive friends from 11:30 am to the hour of service on Monday, April 7, 2014 at the Heinz Funeral Home in Inverness.  Funeral Service will begin at 12:30 pm.  Interment with Military Honors will follow at the Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell, FL. Heinz Funeral Home & Cremation, Inverness, FL.