Col. Robert Joseph Dumont

With great sadness and profound love, we share the passing of Col. Robert Joseph Dumont, USAF (Ret.), who died peacefully on Sunday, July 13, 2025, after a courageous 18-year battle with cancer. He was 79 years old.
Born in Morgantown, West Virginia, Bob was raised in Point Marion, Pennsylvania by his parents, Ruth and Paul. He was a spirited and determined student and athlete. A proud Albert Gallatin High School Colonial, he played quarterback with heart and grit, never letting his smaller stature hold him back. Bob became a devoted fan of the Pittsburgh Steelers and Pirates early on, cheering them on faithfully throughout his life-just one of the many ways his steadfast optimism and loyalty touched those around him.
Two pivotal moments shaped Bob's life while attending West Virginia University. The first was marrying his middle school sweetheart, Patricia Hughs, who became his lifelong partner. They wed in the summer of 1967, beginning a marriage that spanned nearly six decades. The second was his decision to become an officer in the United States Air Force, where he began a 26-year career as a meteorologist.
During his distinguished military service, Bob and Pat raised their two children, Gregory and Kimberly, across the globe-Guam, Omaha, Germany, and beyond-before settling in Northern Virginia. After retiring from the Air Force, Bob continued to serve the nation as a chief meteorologist for NOAA until his final retirement in 2005.
Throughout his life, Bob prioritized being part of a church community, a commitment that deepened after he and Pat discovered Christ Church in 1992. He became actively involved in numerous ministries, including Stephen Ministry, Rise Against Hunger, men's groups, the cancer support group, and Rising Hope.
In his later years, Bob embraced retirement with characteristic vigor-body surfing in the Outer Banks, ruling the grill as its undisputed CEO, and "perfecting" his short game on the golf course. But his greatest joy came from family: celebrating birthdays, cheering at ballgames, attending dance recitals, and sharing meals with his grandchildren, Maxwell and Sarah. He and Pat were never happier than when surrounded by those they loved.
Bob faced his long illness with the heart and determination of a warrior, never surrendering his sense of hope. His resilience, humor, and deep love for his family will be remembered always.
A memorial service will be held on Thursday, July 24, at 11:00 a.m. at:
Christ Church
7600 Ox Rd
Fairfax Station, VA 22039
Refreshments will be served following the ceremony.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Bob's honor may be made to the American Cancer Society.