Robert A. Brightfield

Bob was an elegant skater, an inspiration, a wonderful listener and storyteller. Most of all he was a dear friend who'll live on in the hearts of his family and friends.

Bob was a wonderful man and will be deeply missed by the skating community and everyone at the Kirkwood Ice Arena. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

I met Bob ice skating several years ago. When Bob first told me his age, I was skeptical due to his sharp mind and his level of physical activity. The stories of his time as a Naval Aviator were fascinating and I thank him for sharing them with me.

I am so honored to have known Bob, easily one of the most interesting people I have ever met. He always had a story and amazed me with his energy - I know people half his age who couldn't do all of the things he was still doing at 90! He came to my son's Scout meeting several years ago and talked about his military experiences. The boys thoroughly enjoyed it and he was so patient with their questions. He was such a great role model and I will miss seeing him at the rink.

We will miss Bob and his cheerfulness taking each day as it comes never complaining, and his skating ability was phenomenal.

It was a blessing to meet Bob at his neighbor Walt's BBQ. I loved his WWII pilot stories, his will to skate and have fun all the way through his full life. I truly enjoyed seeing the smile on his face as he rode in the last July 4th, Webster Groves parade with me. I later learned that he was able to make the long overdue trip to Washington, D.C.; to be honored as a WWII hero that he was. May you be with God and his son, Jesus.. May I get to see you once again and offer my eternal salute...

I am deeply saddened to hear of Bob's passing. My thoughts are with his entire family.

Ken,
This is K. Surappa expressing our deepest sympathy and sadness to hear about the death of your dad. Your good nature and helping qualities prove that you had a great father. We both wish you and family lots of strength to bear the loss.
K & Laxmi Surappa

Ken:

So sorry to hear about your father. Sounds like he had a full life. May God be with you and your entire family during this difficult time. Take Care.
P.S. You may not recognize the name, but this is K. Surappa's son.