Robert and Helen Brotemarkle

SURPRISE - Robert and Helen died in a sudden and tragic car accident on June 12, 2016. Bob was the son of Robert and Alice Brotemarkle and was born in Kansas City, Mo., on March 25, 1931. Helen was the daughter of August and Sophie Luehrman and was born in Lexington, Mo., on August 4, 1934. Bob spent four maturing years in the Air Force before meeting Helen, who was teaching music at the time. They were married on June 29, 1962. Robert is a graduate of the University of Missouri, Columbia. Helen is a graduate of Missouri Valley, Marshall, Mo., and has multiple Masters degrees from the University of Missouri, Kansas City. Robert worked as an account executive at Western Electric/Lucent in Kansas City. Helen pursued her passion of music and early childhood development, working as an elementary music teacher and then as founding Director of Red Door Children's Development Center, Lee's Summit, Mo. She was also closely involved with the League of Women Voters and local planning organizations during the 1970's. Robert and Helen were very involved with St. Matthew's Episcopal Church in Raytown, Mo., where Helen was the organists for 30 years. After both retired they moved to Surprise, Ariz., and into the community of Sun City Grand. They eventually became intricately involved in the parish of All Saints of the Desert Episcopal Church, Sun City. The Church welcomed them with open arms and fully embraced their membership to which they were grateful. Robert also belonged to the Telephone Pioneers of America, Lee's Summit, Mo., and Masonic Lodge, Raytown, Mo. He was a past member of Scottish Rite, Missouri Valley, and Ararat Shrine Temple, Kansas City, Mo. Helen was President of the local PEO (Philanthropic Educational Organization) chapter and an active member of The Order of the Daughters of the King. She graced many local music events and groups with her gifts on the piano and organ. Robert and Helen Brotemarkle are survived by their two sons, David and John. David is married to Rosane and lives in Medford, N.Y. John is married to Michelle and lives in Virginia Beach, Va. They have two granddaughters, Amanda and Sophie, both daughters of John and Michelle. Robert is also survived by his sister, Betty Ann Luehrman, of Kansas City. Both are survived by many devoted nieces and nephews. Their life was celebrated in conjunction with the 4 p.m. service at All Saints of the Desert Episcopal Church on Saturday, June 18, 2016. A future memorial service and final inurnment will be held at All Saints this Fall. In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to All Saints of the Desert, Sun City, Ariz., in memory of Robert and Helen Brotemarkle.