Robert Cornell Zwemer

Robert Cornell Zwemer was born December 25, 1945, in Lovell, Wyoming to Lillian (Mayland) and Virgil Zwemer. Robert attended elementary school in Frannie and Jr. high and high school in Deaver. He went to NWC for a semester but had to withdraw during his second semester to return to the family farm due to his father's health. Robert married Sharla Engelking in 1967, and they made their home on the farm north of Frannie. They were blessed with three daughters, Tessa (Elias) Jasso, Sharae (Kolt) Bischoff, and Jolyn (William) Belk, seven grandchildren, and five great grandchildren.

He farmed in the Frannie-Deaver area growing grain, hay, corn, beans, and peas. He raised sheep, pigs, cattle, and Pryor Mountain mustangs. He also sold corn seed, crop chemicals, gated pipe, and used farm machinery. He loved sharing his farming and animal adventures with his children and grandchildren.

Robert faced many health challenges. A major stroke, when he was 48, left him paralyzed on his left side. He worked hard to walk again with the help of a brace and a cane. He and Sharla moved to Lovell in 2013 to be closer to family and medical help as his health declined. Then about ten years ago he had a second stroke. His walking days were over. Driving his wheelchair was a real challenge due to his left side paralysis. Several years later he lost a leg due to complications from diabetes. He was hospitalized in March of this year and chose to enter hospice to spend his remaining days at home.

Robert supported his girls (and their teammates) in their school, sports, and music endeavors. His girls knew he was their biggest fan and most vocal supporter. He was a lifelong fan of the Wyoming Cowboys and was always grateful to make the trip to Laramie to attend their games.

Through all the trials and tribulations, Robert kept a good attitude and was a positive person to be around. One of his favorite things to do was to spoil his grandchildren and he loved to share his knowledge, special treats, and love with them. Robert loved to visit with people and always had a joke ready to share. He usually knew their life history by the time the visit was over.

Robert died December 5 at his home. He is survived by his wife, daughters and their families, three sisters Jennifer (Antonio) Cid, Suzanne (Rodger) Landis, and Jacalyn Johnson, and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his grandparents (Henry and Hermina Mayland) and (John and Etta Zwemer), parents, and one beloved sister, Roslyn Hillman.

Robert was a lifelong member of St. John's Lutheran Church in Lovell, Wyoming. He proclaimed his faith to all. Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. on December 20 at St. John's, with a viewing at 9 a.m. Burial will be in the Lovell Cemetery immediately following the service.