Colonel Robert G. "Ret" Zerull

Colonel (Ret) Robert G. Zerull, age 83, of Shalimar, Florida, passed away on January 6, 2026. He was born August 17, 1942, in Moline, Illinois, to Robert and Zelma Zerull.

Bob lived a life defined by service, independence, patriotism, and devotion to his family. He graduated from Alleman High School in 1960 and served in the United States Air Force from 1961 to 1965. He later traveled the country as a sprint car and motorcycle racer, living life at full speed, and driving a tractor-trailer in the off-season.

In 1972, Bob married the love of his life, Sheri Lynn Brandow. He went on to graduate Cum Laude from Northeast Missouri State University in 1974 and earned his Doctor of Osteopathy degree from Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine in 1978. He returned to active duty in the Air Force in 1979, earning a Master's Degree in Public Health from UTSA in 1985 and completing a residency in Aerospace Medicine at Brooks Air Force Base in 1986.

Over a distinguished military career, Bob served as Chief of Aerospace Medicine at Luke Air Force Base, commanded the 832nd Medical Group Air Transportable Hospital, and served as a flight surgeon for F-15 and F-16 squadrons. He was the first flight surgeon, and 31st Weapon Systems Operator, to fly as a crewmember in the F-15E, a distinction he carried with pride. His decorated record includes leadership during Desert Shield/Desert Storm, service as medical exchange officer with the Royal Australian Air Force and his service as the inaugural flight commander of the 16th Operations Support Squadron Medical Flight. In this role he led the creation and development of mission critical medical capabilities, training and equipment that stood as the benchmark for the next 30 years. He retired from the Air Force in 2001 after over 30 years of service.

He is survived by his wife, Sheri; daughters Natalie White and Ashley (Chris) Frohock; grandchildren Nora, Haynes, and Emmett Frohock, and Piper Grace White; and brother Galen (Marcia) Zerull. He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Zelma Zerull; sisters Jeannine Conner and Laneta (Jerry) Gowdy; brother Bernard Zerull; and son-in-law Clayton White.

For all his accomplishments and achievements, he was most proud of his children and grandchildren. Whether you knew him as Robert, Bobby, Bob, Zero, Bubba, Doc Z, Dad, Boompa or Bobba, he will be remembered for his courage, sharp wit, fearless honesty, and unwavering dedication to those he loved and served. His maverick nature contributed to the many legendary tales and anecdotes shared by those he encountered. His life was one of purpose, adventure, and impact, and his legacy will live on in the many lives he touched.

A funeral service will be held at 3:00 p.m. on January 25, 2026, at Emerald Coast Funeral Home, with visitation one hour prior. Interment with military honors at Barrancas National Cemetery on January 26, 2026, at 1:00 p.m.