Robert Ray Henritze

Robert Ray (Bob) Henritze, 75, of Roanoke, Va., was called home to heaven on Wednesday, March 4, 2009. He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Bernice Henritze; a sister, Libby Abbott; his wife of 56 1/2 years, Joyce Bates Henritze; and first-born son, Robert Earl Henritze. He was a very devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He was born August 3, 1933, in Roanoke, Va. He served his country in the Vietnam era as a Marine Gunny Sergeant. He was a proud Marine who served his country with honor and dignity. After his military service, Bob worked as a property manager for Fralin and Waldron. For many years he dedicated his life to helping anyone in need. He worked hard being a good provider for his family and friends. Robert was ill for many years but still found the strength to be involved in his children's and grandchildren's lives. Surviving are his children, Sherie Carter and husband, Tom, Michael Henritze and wife, Missy, Richard Henritze and wife, Joy, Laurie Pampley and husband, Ray, Cyril Edwards and Jay Williams. Also surviving are his grandchildren, Brian Chocklett and wife, Sherry, Nikki Chocklett and husband, Gary, Somertess Henritze, Mickey Henritze and wife, Leslie, Tommy Henritze, Justine Henritze, Katie Henritze, Richard Henritze, II, Victoria Johnson, Samantha Johnson, Marissa Pampley and Matthew Pampley; great-grandchildren, Hayley Chocklett and Braedyn Henritze; brothers, Charles Sr., Earl and Jack Henritze; sisters, Ruth Ann Lee and Carolyn Lee Tremblay; and many friends survive him. The family would like to thank the nurses and doctors on 4 H at the VA Medical Center for their support, love, and care during Robert's illness. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made to Cornerstone Baptist Church, 431 18th Street, S.E., Roanoke, Va. 24013. Funeral services will be conducted 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, March 7, 2009, at Simpson Funeral Home, 5160 Peters Creek Road. Interment will follow in Sherwood Memorial Park. The family will receive friends from 3 to 4 p.m. and from 6 to 8 p.m. on Friday, March 6, 2009, at Simpson Funeral Home, 540-366-0707. You never said "I'm going"
You never said "goodbye"
You were gone before we
knew it
With only God knowing why
It broke our hearts to loose you
But you didn't go alone
A part of us went with you
The night God called you home.
No one knows the pain
and sorrow
As we turn and leave you there.
Granddad, I will always love you
Nikki