Robert Henry Petzinger

Robert "Bob" Henry Petzinger, 81, passed away on Saturday December 13, 2025 in Rockford, IL with family by his side. Bob was born December 3rd, 1944, in Iowa City, Iowa the son of Earl B. and Mildred M. (Miller) Petzinger. Bob grew up in New London, Iowa with his sister Pat. Following high school Bob attended Iowa Wesleyan College before enlisting and serving his country in the United States Air Force during Vietnam.

After the Air Force Bob explored numerous careers. He was a police officer for St. Petersburg Public Safety Agency in St. Pete, FL, owned his own scuba diving shop, worked for the phone company, was in IT and computers and was in management before retiring. After retirement Bob volunteered for several groups but his most favorite was volunteering at the Port of Burlington Welcome Center, Burlington, Iowa.

Bob also had several fun and exciting hobbies over the years. He loved geodes, rock hunting and making jewelry from the rocks and stones he found. He loved the outdoors, visiting state and national parks often and loved his time living in Colorado. But his greatest love and biggest adventure was piloting hot air balloons. He loved being in the air in his balloon. He met so many amazing people in the hot air balloon community. His crew members and other balloon enthusiasts meant so much to him. He participated 18 years in the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta, the world's largest hot air balloon event, in Albuquerque, NM.

Bob was also an avid professional photographer and really enjoyed capturing nature. He has photos published at FineArtAmerica.com. Bob had the biggest heart, a great sense of humor, an easy-going personality, was very well liked by all, had countless friends and will be missed by all who knew him.

The family would like to thank the staff at River Bluff Nursing Home, Dove Unit and especially his CNA, Mary. She was extremely compassionate and caring to Bob and was by his side at the end.

Survivors include his sister Patricia A. Werckle; nieces Beth Werckle and Sarah Werckle (Ricky Brewer); Nephew Michael D. Werckle; Great-Niece Annie Streit (Kyle); Great-Nephews Dashiell and Lincoln Rip; Granddaughter Faith and Grandson Dylan and cousins Paul, Bob, Su and Russ.

Predeceased by his parents, brother-in-law Michael A. Werckle, his daughter Jennifer, and several aunts, Uncles and cousins.

Private family services will be held. A Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date, to be held in Iowa. To share a memory or condolence, please visit www.olsonfh.com