Robert "Bob" A. Wetzel

Robert departed peacefully from his earthly home in Lodi, at the age of 93, on January 27, 2024, ready to embark on his next career.
He was the oldest of 3 sons born to Andrew and Rose Wetzel in McKees Rocks, PA. Bob grew up in that area, often times referred to as "the bottoms", and at that young age of 17, enlisted in the U.S. Navy, ready to see more of the world and experience new adventures.
His naval training as an electrician saw him engaged in Mine Warfare aboard several mine sweeping ships during the Korean Conflict. His naval career lasted 10 years. After retiring from the Navy, law enforcement became his next career. 
He spent 1 year as a Correctional Officer for the California State of Corrections, and in 1960 Lodi Police Department hired Bob starting as a patrolman. For the next 20 years his work and schooling for advancement saw him progress thru the ranks of the department and retiring as "Lieutenant Wetzel".
That retirement didn't last long. For the next 20 years Bob would work part time as a Deputy Marshal for the Stockton Judicial District and later the San Joaquin County Sheriff's Department in Court Services. His total law enforcement career spanned 40+ years. He was truly a "people person", and his entire working life was service oriented. He loved helping people. 
Bob had a strong personality; a distinct voice; a "get it done" work ethic and an opinion on most everything. Those who met him would probably remember him by any one, or all of the above. He really was "One of a Kind". 
Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Andrew and Rose Wetzel; brothers, Ronald and Lawrence; Father and Mother in-law, Floyd and Doris Weisenhaus and niece Tina Weisenhaus. He is survived by the love of his life, his devoted and loving wife of 55 years, Ila Mae; sons David and Robert (Mike) and wife Rhonda Wetzel; step son Kevin and wife Linda Elliott; sister's in law JoAnne and Jeanette Wetzel; brother in-law Wm. (Bill) and wife Nancy Weisenhaus; 6 Grandchildren and several great-Grandchildren, nieces and nephews; his very special friends, Mike and Sandi Pyle, and not to be forgotten, his feline fur-baby Ben.
Per Bob's wishes there were no services. A military burial will be at a later date.
A special "Thank You" to Hospice of San Joaquin - Nurses Sasha and Elizabeth; Caregiver Nora and Social Worker Josh. Also California Caregivers, DeLois and LeAnna.
For those wishing to make donations in remembrance:
Hospice of San Joaquin, 3888 Pacific Ave. Stockton, CA 95204-1953.
PALS Haven, 5113 Sargent Rd. Lodi, CA 95246.
PVA (Paralyzed Veterans of America) P.O. Box 758589 Topeka, KS 66675-9950 or, the charity of your choice.