Robert Gene Edwards

Oct. 18, 1942 - Nov. 10, 2006

Robert Gene Edwards passed away peacefully in his sleep at home Friday, Nov. 10, 2006. His wife of 44 years, Betty, was always at his side even as he departed this earth. She lovingly cared for him through his many years of illness.

He leaves behind his two daughters, Lisa Joy Bradley of Suisun and Mary June Edwards of Hayward; his loving brothers, Howard, Jim and Lonnie; as well as generations of beloved nieces, nephews, extended family and dear friends.

Bob "Eddie" Edwards was born Oct. 18, 1942, in Springfield, Mo. His parents, Hazel and John Edwards, moved to Berkeley when he was 4 months old. After living the rebellious life of a true rebel in the 1950s - fighting and spinning doughnuts in empty lots, a kindly judge gave him an ultimatum to either join the military or go to jail. He chose the military and joined the United States Air Force in 1958, at age 16. He became a fuel specialist and completed many assignments throughout the country and overseas. On Nov. 15, 1962, he married his beloved wife in Naha, Okinawa, and re-located to Travis AFB in August 1973, where he served as a personnel supervising officer. He retired in 1979 with an honorable discharge after more than 20 years of military service.

While working full time as a manager for the Burger King in Fairfield, he returned to school to complete his education, earning associate degrees in Interpersonal Communications and Business Management in 1981. He liked the Flintstones so much that in 1982 he joined Syar Industries and worked as head dispatch manager at the Lake Herman Rock Quarry in Vallejo. There he worked until June 1992 when he retired due to illness.

Despite illness, he seldom missed and cherished getting together with his family. He also enjoyed traveling, computers, movies and music. He loved meeting people and telling stories to any available ear. His stories were legendary as was his sense of humor. Yet his passion was for his work as a volunteer for the Disabled American Veterans, Local Chapter 81. He worked tirelessly for his local veterans until his final moments. He was truly a dedicated lifetime member of the DAV. He served as the district commander for two terms, the adjutant and as well as the newsman. He was also a lifetime member for the Veterans of Foreign Wars, the American Air Force Association, The National Association of Uniformed Services, the National American Veterans Association, and the American Legion. He was completely committed to serve the veterans in his community and all soldiers of wars past and present.

He was a friend to all veterans, and a friend to all who knew him. He will be deeply missed and remembered with love.

Family and friends are invited to a visitation from 1 to 3 p.m. Thursday at Bryan-Braker Funeral Home, 1850 W. Texas St., Fairfield.

An interment service with full military honors will be held at 1 p.m. Monday at the Sacramento Valley VA National Cemetery, 5810 Midway Road, Dixon.

A celebration of his life will be at 2 p.m. Monday in The Veterans Memorial Building, meeting hall, 427 Main St., Suisun.