Robert S. Kehrer

1969 - 2014

Robert Scott Kehrer, 44 of Wasilla, AK, was tragically taken on Saturday, August 9, 2014 in a pack rafting accident on the Tana River near McCarthy, AK while competing in the Alaska Wilderness Classic, a long distance endurance challenge. A devoted husband, son, friend and co-worker, Rob is survived by his wife Tamra Carlisle Kehrer of Wasilla, AK; his mother, Joan Kehrer (John Webster) of Lakewood, CO; his father, John Kehrer (Barb) of Wheatridge, CO; his brother, Donnie Prescott of Colorado and many other family members. His caring and positive attitude in life will be deeply missed by his family, friends and co-workers. Rob was born on December 1, 1969 in Wheatridge, CO, attended Regis High School in Denver, CO and went on to earn a BA in Social Service at Gonzaga University in Spokane, WA. After college, Rob moved to Anchorage, AK and began working at the McLaughlin Youth Center as a Youth Counselor in 1998. He held a variety of positions and titles over the last 16 years at McLaughlin and was most currently a Unit Supervisor. Rob was a kind and compassionate counselor who cared deeply and was willing to stand up and fight for what he believed. In his personal life, Rob had a passion for playing rugby and recently started to referee matches. Rob was a 10 year veteran of the Alaska Wilderness Classic. He competed in both winter and summer endurance challenges, and will be remembered for his volunteer work during the Iditarod Trail Invitational as the host of a checkpoint in Rohn. He greeted many a weary competitor with his warm smile, easy nature and cup of hot soup. An avid outdoorsman, he loved to fish, hike, cross-country ski, spend time at the cabin he was building at Redshirt, snowshoe, snowmobile - every facet of outdoor life. His goal in his 40's was to get better at hunting and fishing. Friends and family will remember Rob's infectious smile, caring nature, deep love for his wife Tammy and his fierce advocacy for the people and causes he believed in. The Service and Celebration of Life will be held at the Alaska Mountain Rugby Grounds located at 19001 Findland Street Anchorage, AK 99516 on Saturday at 1 p.m. Father Leo Walsh will conduct a service followed by a Celebration of Rob's life. In lieu of flowers, please send donations in Rob's name to one of the following charities: AK Rugby Foundation, Inc. (5641 E 99th Ave, Anchorage, AK 99507) or The Rob Kehrer Wilderness Classic Memorial Fund (on the memo line please include the account number #720123013149 and address to Key Bank, 101 W Benson Blvd, Anchorage, AK 99503).