Robert Carl Björk

1929 - 2017

Björk, Robert Carl

Robert Carl Björk, 87, formerly of Sturgeon Bay, passed away Saturday morning, August 5, 2017 at Allouez Parkside Village.

He was born December 6, 1929 in Oshkosh, the son of Axel Eric Walter Björk and Marion Irving (Jenkins) Björk. Robert grew up in Sawyer (now the west side of Sturgeon Bay) and attended Sturgeon Bay High School. He enlisted to serve his country with the United States Army, entering into active service on March 12, 1947. Robert served in North Korea and fought in the Battle of Heartbreak Ridge as a machine gunner. He was awarded the Combat Infantryman Badge, the Purple Heart with First Oak Leaf Cluster, the Korean Service Medal, and one Bronze Star Medal. Robert was honorably discharged from the Army on March 5, 1952 with the rank of Corporal.

He attended Layton School of Art in Milwaukee on the GI Bill upon his return from North Korea. Robert went out to work as a newspaper photographer and as a portrait photographer for high-ranking military officials. He was united in marriage to Beverly Jill Wixom on July 12, 1963 in Palos Verdes, CA. Robert then took a job as an information specialist for the federal government and moved to Washington, D.C. where he raised his family. He earned a degree from George Mason University in Fairfax, VA.

Robert retired on October 3, 1989. He and Beverly had been living at Allouez Parkside Village the past couple years, and prior to that, they had resided in Sturgeon Bay.

Robert was a member of the Disabled American Veterans. He enjoyed bicycling and photography-professionally and recreationally, watching Turner Classic Movies and the national news, and discussing politics. Robert also liked reading, poetry, and Shakespeare. He believed in education and was a proud supporter of grandchildren's studies. Robert cherished spending time with family and loved his frequent visits from his daughter, Elin's dogs, whom he adored.

He is survived by his wife, Beverly, with whom he shared over 54 years of marriage; two daughters, Anna Moriarty of The Woodlands, TX, and Elin Björk of Green Bay; five grandchildren, Mitch, Matt, Nina, Layla, and Maria Moriarty; and brother-in-law, Dallas (Ann Marie) Wixom of Lakewood, WI.

Robert was preceded in death by his parents; and sister, Jane (Moses) Fuller.

He will be laid to rest in Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia with full military honors by the United States Army.

In his memory, consider going for a bike ride, reading some history, honoring a veteran, voting Democrat, or volunteering or donating to your local animal shelter.

Robert's family would like to thank Allouez Parkside Village and Heartland Hospice for the loving care given to their father.

Huehns Funeral Home & Cremation Services in Sturgeon Bay is assisting the Björk family with arrangements. Expressions of sympathy, memories, and photos of Robert may be shared with his family through his tribute page at www.huehnsfuneralhome.com.