Robert James Blok

Dr. Robert James Blok, Sr., age 82, of Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, passed away on November 1, in the Year of Our Lord 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on December 31, 1942, in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Dr. Blok lived a life marked by service, scholarship, and devotion to his family and country.

A man of remarkable intellect and discipline, Dr. Blok built an illustrious career as an anesthesiologist, earning the distinction of Fellow in the American Osteopathic College of Anesthesiologists. He also served as a professor of anesthesiology, guiding and mentoring countless students throughout his academic career.

Dr. Blok proudly served his nation as a Colonel in the United States Army Medical Corps, completing multiple deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan. His courage and dedication were recognized with numerous military decorations, including the Purple Heart and the Combat Medical Badge.

A lifelong scholar and lover of military history, Dr. Blok continued his education long after his military and medical achievements, graduating from the Citadel Military College of South Carolina Graduate Program and the US Army War College. Beyond his professional and military endeavors, he devoted more than 45 years as an AAU referee, embodying his love of sport, fairness, and mentorship.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 33 years, Kimberly Blok. He was a loving father to Robert James Blok, Jr. (Rae), Alisha Blok (Vince), Courtney Anderson (Raymond), Kelly Anderson (Greyson), Tanna Pack, and Gia Blok. He was a cherished grandfather to Austin Jaber, Alex (Lyndsay) Jaber, Jacob Anderson, Robert James Blok, III, Jackson Anderson, Lucas Anderson, and Freja Anderson. He was a great-grandfather to Sophia Christopher and Violet Jaber. He is also survived by his brother, George Blok (Carol) and his sister, Taren Bischoff.

He will be missed dearly by his four-legged best friend and sidekick, Harley.

He was preceded in death by his darling daughter, Mary Lynn Blok, and his parents, Stanley and Helen Blok.

Dr. Blok will be interred at Arlington National Cemetery, where he will rest among his fellow soldiers in eternal honor.

His legacy endures through his family, his students, and the many lives he touched through a lifetime of service, wisdom, and passion.

Family and friends are invited to a Celebration of Life, 6 PM, November 15, 2025 at Keith Funeral Home, 63 Arrow Road, Hilton Head Island.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Wounded Warriors Project.