Robert Stephan Deppner

Robert "Bobby D" Deppner passed away on October 18, 2024, with the most gorgeous (no longer permed) head of hair. When his family had been advised to call hospice 6 years earlier, Bob whispered "I'll prove them wrong." With a long history of having the last laugh, he proceeded to do just that. Bob's enthusiasm for life, and love for the people blessed to be a part of his, was unmatched.
Bob was born in Somerville, MA during World War II to Army soldier Fred and dance studio owner Stella. The documentation of Bob's inspirational journey started early on – first when he appeared in the newspaper on his 5th birthday. He had survived swallowing a mixture of lye and acid 2 years prior and now, after a lengthy hospitalization, was attempting to eat small bites of cake at his party. Next, at 8 years old, Bob's triumphant spirit led him to being recognized for his song and dance rendition of "Zip-A-Dee-Doo-Dah" in a children's talent show.
At the age of 18, Bob joined the Marine Corps and broke the obstacle course record during boot camp at Parris Island. He also spent time in Okinawa, learned to speak a little Japanese (which impressed his children during hibachi dinners), and fell into a benjo ditch. Bob was proud to be a Marine and would get choked up any time he heard the hymn.
Bob's service didn't end after his honorable discharge. He was well-known for deeply and positively impacting the lives of others. He was a long-time member (55 years) of an organization which focuses on love and service. Bob always arrived early to set up and was the smiling face welcoming everyone. A friend quipped that Bob is probably fighting St. Peter for the role of door greeter right now. He called friends daily, new and old, to check on them. He started having to examine his list to see who might have passed away because his phone reached storage capacity for numbers. Bob also spent many holidays in service to veterans and others in need.
Bob met the love of his life Ilene in 1973 while "Benny and the Jets" played in the background. After surviving an interesting first date, Bob and Ilene fell and remained madly in love and were a powerful example of true partnership. "Benny and the Jets" and "You Get the Best of My Love," were played when they renewed their vows, at Bob's request, in 2023.
Bob adored children and started teaching his own to be of service, too. They were instructed to give up their seats on the train for those who needed them more and to share an umbrella with a stranger. He imparted words of wisdom like "if you worry pray if you pray, why worry?" Sometimes his guidance about selflessness, forgiveness, and staying in today seemed to share a common theme (spoken in a Boston dialect): "Love em even when they are p*ssing on your feet." "If you have one foot in yesterday and one foot in tomorrow, you p*ss all over today." He enjoyed jumping out from behind doors (and out of a plane one time), as well as making his kids laugh with characters he created named "Laddie Bofah and Melissa." Most importantly, he constantly reminded his children "I love you no matter what." He was a confidant and mentor, and wasn't afraid to cry or say "I'm sorry."
Bob proudly retired from Polaroid after an over 20 year career, which was remarkable because he was only 29 years old that year, and every year. He was an elected labor representative and internal consultant who had a gift for uniting people. He used to bring his tools home from work (a flip-chart and markers). These were used so that major decisions could be made as a family. He truly valued everyone's input.
Bob was a man of many talents and interests. In addition to being a showman, he learned to horseback ride during summers in Pennsylvania and was an overall animal whisperer. He loved to tell the story of how his family went from no pets to "a dog, 3 cats, a horse, and 8 hermit crabs." He excelled in sports and later became a little league coach. He was an acrobat doing back tucks in the yard well into his 50s. Bob was also an avid golfer. When he began going blind, he painted his golf balls neon pink in order to see them better and, in his usual fashion, to bring levity to a dire situation.
A man of great style, Bob could be seen sporting a pair of New England Patriots silk boxers over his pants at Super Bowl parties for good luck. Tom Brady can thank Bobby D. for all of those rings!
Bob will always be remembered for being a jokester and busting cookies, his kindness, magical smile and laugh, selflessness, sense of humor, knack for telling an animated story, and humility. Without trying to be the center of attention, Bob's charisma drew everyone in. He was truly one-of-a-kind and words will never adequately capture just how special he was.
Bob is survived by his devoted wife Ilene, loving sister Donna (Eddie), and adoring children Kevin (Jas), Steven, Jackie, and Ellen. He was a loving Papa to Julianna, Declan, Kamryn, Joseph, and Jameson. Bob loved his extended family and host of long-time friends from every walk of life.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the HPH Hospice Opal Team for the support and compassionate care they provided over the last 14 months in Bob's home, as well as to our favorite non-hospice ARNP. We will never forget you.
A celebration of life in Bob's honor will be held at 1:00 pm, Saturday, November 16th at Hope United Methodist Church at 2200 Little Rd, Trinity, FL. A light lunch and refreshments will be provided. Please bring your favorite memory of Bob, and a dish, if you wish. Bob wouldn't want you to be late – AIS (though the family would rather you arrive late than not at all).
In lieu of flowers or a donation, the family asks that you reach out your hand and let someone know that they "never have to be alone again," the way that Bobby D. would.