Robert Walter Alpers

1931 - 2024

At the age of 92, Robert Walter Alpers received his final honorable discharge from this earth in Phoenix, Arizona, on April 8, 2024 - the same month and day that he was honorably discharged from his beloved Marine Corps in 1952.

The son of Werner and Anna (Heiden) Alpers, Bob was born on May 6, 1931, in Columbus, Nebraska. After graduating from Columbus High School in 1949, he attended business school in Omaha, Nebraska. He then (finally!) married his junior high sweetheart, Barbara (Smith) in 1950, and started his career at Becton Dickinson in Columbus. Joining the Marine Corps with his trusty tuba and expecting to be in the band, he instead shipped out to Korea in March 1951, fighting bravely on the front line until his honorable discharge.

Bob and Barbara were blessed with four wonderful children who were ingrained with their parents' values, sense of humor and adventure. Bob spent his entire professional career at Becton Dickinson, first moving his family from Columbus, Nebraska, to Dublin, Ireland in 1963, followed by subsequent tours in New Jersey; Grenoble, France; and Singapore. His determination, perseverance and hard work advanced him from his start as a timekeeper to ultimately division president. Bob and Barbara then retired to Phoenix, Arizona, in 1989.

Bob loved the arts. He enjoyed singing in the Masterwork Chorus choir during their time in New Jersey, which included a performance at Carnegie Hall. A talented painter and sculptor, he created many works of art that his family proudly displays in their homes today. Additionally, he was an avid Cornhuskers fan, and he loved cars, golfing, and spending time with his family. All of these interests were passed on to his children.

Bob will be remembered by his loved ones for his dedication, support, encouragement, generosity and faithfulness. And no one will forget his wicked quick wit - including phrases like, "If you're not early, you're late" - a motto everyone will tell you he lived by every day of his life! And no one will argue about his love for all things Barbara cooked and baked.

Survived by his wife, Barbara; three children, Nancy (Laura), Kathryn (Brian), and Bill (Concetta); six grandchildren, Michael (Abbi), Patrick, Will (Pam), Brian (Pippa), Kristopher (Kelly), and Erica; seven great grandchildren, Noah, Eddie, Elizabeth, Victoria, Freya, Myles and Luka; sister, Lois; and daughter-in-law, Cheri.

Bob was proceeded in death by his parents, and son, Kurt (Cheri).

Condolences may be sent to Hansen Desert Hills in Scottsdale, Arizona.