Robert Conser

CONSER, Robert

94, passed peacefully on November 20, 2024. Born and raised in southern California, he embraced the lifestyle with Pacific coast highway, surf towns, weather and, of course, drag racing: he built two cars, a '38 Ford chop top and a '32 Ford T-bucket. At the young age of 21, he got married to his childhood sweetheart, Jo Ann, and they raised three boys together. Bob cherished his family and would do anything for them. He worked for General Telephone for 38 years, starting as a lineman and quickly working his way up to regional manager. In 1966, GTE wanted to establish a presence in Florida, so they sent Bob to investigate the opportunity. He located a small company in Lakeland with 40 employees and GTE acquired that company. Bob was assigned with the task of developing and managing GTE's operations in Florida as "Director of Operations" for Florida. Over the years GTE grew to over 3,000 employees all under Bob's command. Bob was clearly in charge, and it was Bob's way or the highway, as the employees would state: 'There's a right way, wrong way, and Bob's way.' When not working, Bob was spending his time at home with his family and always doing something for them. He could fix anything and, as such, would often repair bicycles, go carts, mini bikes for his kids along with all the neighborhood kids as well. In 1988, Bob retired from GTE which was acquired by Verizon because he didn't like the corporate mentality of profits before service. He went on to perfect his golf game and, even at age 72, he shot 72 at Lakewood Country Club where he was also president for several years. Bob was a fighter and, to his last days, he spoke of things he needed to do for his family. Bob's wife, Jo Ann preceded his passing; he is survived by three sons, David, Stephen, Mathew; five grandchildren, Kyle, Blake, John-David, Alisa, Ashley; and also three great-grandchildren.

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