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Robert Kiem Obituary
L. Kiem
1939 - 2011
KIEM--Captain Robert L. Kiem, USN Retired, died November 29 in Orange Park, Florida following a brief illness. He was born in Pensacola, Florida in June, 1939 to Ed and Harriet Kiem. Bob was active in the Boy Scouts and earned the rank of Eagle Scout. He graduated from Pensacola High School in 1957 and continued his education at the University of Florida where he earned a degree in Journalism in December, 1962.
While at UF he met a FSU coed, the lovely Letty Anne Lee of Palmetto, FL. They soon married and recently celebrated their 49th anniversary.
Following graduation, Bob immediately entered the Navy flight program. He was designated a Naval Aviator in August 1964, and reported to NAS Cecil Field for training in the A-4 Skyhawk.
Bob joined VA-12 for his first sea duty and made deployments aboard USS Franklin D. Roosevelt (CVA-42) to the Mediterranean and Viet Nam. This was followed by a tour as LSO and flight instructor with VA-44 at NAS Cecil Field.
In 1969, still flying the A-4, Bob returned to sea and served as CAG 8 LSO in USS Shangri-la for another deployment to Viet Nam. During this deployment, however, he managed to fly the supersonic F-8 Crusader and earned his 1000 mph pin. He returned to Cecil Field to transition to the more powerful A-7 Corsair II.
Having completed his tour with CAG-8, Bob reported to Naval Postgraduate School, Monterey, CA, where he earned his MS in Personnel Management. He then moved on to Washington, DC and the Office of the Chief of Naval Operations, Manpower Planning and Programming.
In 1975 LCDR Kiem reported to VA-82 and completed two Mediterranean deployments in USS Nimitz (CVN-68) flying the A-7 Corsair II. He then reported to
Commander Light Attack Wing-One (CLAW-1) at NAS Cecil Field, FL as the Maintenance Officer.
Commander Kiem commenced the first of five command tours in 1978 with Command of VT-25, NAS Chase Field, Beeville, TX flying the TA-4 Skyhawk. This tour was followed by command of VA-72 at NAS Cecil Field and completing a deployment in USS America (CV-66). During this deployment, in March 1983, he achieved his 1000th carrier landing. Following this deployment, Captain Kiem assumed command of VA-174, the A-7 Fleet Replacement Squadron, NAS Cecil Field.
Believing his flying days were over, Bob assumed command of USS Guam (LPH-9) homeported at NS Norfolk, VA with a deployment to the Mediterranean Sea. He then took command of USS Peleliu (LHA-5), homeported in Long Beach, CA. After completing his last assignment at sea, he was transferred to Hawaii for a tour as the director for CINCPAC Cruise Missile Support Activity, responsible for mission planning for cruise missiles in the Pacific Fleet, including those used during the initial attack on Baghdad in Operation Desert Storm in 1991.
For his final assignment Captain Kiem served as Chief of Staff for Commander, Naval Air Training Command in Corpus Christi, TX where he had the opportunity to get back into the cockpit of the TA-4 and the Navy's newest training jet, the T-45 Goshawk. After completing 4400 hours flying and 1044 carrier arrested landings, Captain Kiem retired from the Navy in May 1993.
Following military retirement Bob and Annie moved into their Orange Park home for the fourth time. He continued playing golf as often as possible and served as President of the Cecil Field Golf Association. Bob was a dedicated blood donor for many years. He also served as a Poll Worker and Clerk of a Precinct in Clay County.
Bob will be remembered for his unconditional love of his family, his unwavering support for his country, and his pride in his military service. Warm and outgoing, with a quick smile and a ready wit, he never met a stranger.
Bob Kiem is survived by his wife, Annie, three children: Doug (Bear) Kiem (Angie) of Poway, CA, Beth Schemenauer (Keith) of Fort Pierce, FL, and Katie Seslar (Dennis) of Riverview, FL., his siblings Betty Herndon (Dave) of Greenville, SC, Linda Nolte (Pat) of Springfield, Va., Michael Kiem (Jane) of Orlando, Fla., and Debbie Hodges (Ken) of Tallahassee, Fla. He was most proud of his six grandchildren, and relished his role as Grandpa.
A memorial service with full military honors will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, December 5, at Jacksonville Memory Gardens Funeral Home, 111 Blanding Blvd., Orange Park.
Please post tributes in celebration of his "Damn Near Perfect" life in
[email protected].
In lieu of flowers, please make contributions to Community Hospice, 4266 Sunbeam Road, Jacksonville, 32257.
Express your condolences in our guestbook at pnj.com/obits
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Robert Kiem
Jan Torpin
November 27, 2023
I served as ship family Ombudsman for the USS Guam, stationed then in Norfolk, Virginia, under the guidance of Captain Kiem. My husband, MCPO Charles (Chuck)Torpin, served under Captain Kiem aboard the USS Guam as 3M Coordinator. There are so very many wonderful memories of our time under the command of Captain Kiem; but the one most significant that pops into mind was the day we told him that Chuck (MCPO Charles H. Torpin, deceased 1/6/1995),would be staying aboard the ship for the Med Cruise! Chuck had planned to transfer to shore duty because we had a young son, Keith, and he thought it would be a hardship on me. The picture Inclosed is Captain Keim´s reaction!
I believe I could write a book on all the memories I have of our times with Annie and Captain Kiem; their home visits, parties, celebrations, dinners, laughter and just plain old southern fun! Miss them so very much!
May they rest in peace!
AO2 John Williams
January 22, 2023
(Captain) Commander Kiem was my Executive Officer at VT-25 in Beeville, TX. (1979); my first duty station after A School. It was an honor to serve under his command. I will always remember flying backseat with him in our TA-4J Skyhawks.
CAPT Frank Brough
January 21, 2021
Annie. It does not seem like over 9 years ago when we 5 Pre-flight classmates had lunch in your home. We still miss him and the great fellowship we enjoyed for so many years. May our place in eternity be as secure as Bob's.
John Evans (Flutie)
August 8, 2020
I had the honor of serving onboard the USS GUAM (LPH-9) with Capt. Kiem as my Commanding Officer. Capt. Kiem gave me my first promotion from an E1 to an E2. He always had the time to say hello and ask how things were going. I'd take him his message traffic and we would talk about home, sports and a variety of topics. When I heard of his passing it brought tears to my eyes. He wasn't just the Captain of our ship, he had the heart and so of all the crew. The NAVY and all who knew him are better off for him being a part of their lives. RIP SIR. It was an HONOR to know you.....RM3 Flutie
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Nancy Zambie
November 27, 2019
All the superlatives about Bob been written and said over the many years. Those that write here were fortunate enough to have known Bob and his wife and family and, as a result, possess a great many fond memories to sustain us until we can join him.
I will always remember his kindness (and Annies) following the loss of my husband but, most of all, I will cherish the many times our paths crossed during our years together in the Navy.
Sincerely,
Nancy Zambie
Tom Stanley
May 17, 2012
I am at a loss. I served under CAPT Kiem on the USS Guam. He was the best leader I have ever known. I will never forget the day we had to offload all of the food from the Guam when entering the yard in Philly. He called for an all hands working party. He was the first one in the line of almost 500 sailers hoisting 50 lb bags of flour.
kevin diggins
April 3, 2012
Captain Bob Keim was the Best Damm Captain I had the honor and privlege to serve under,he was a kind,considerate and understanding man one that his men could talk to ,may his family know my deepest condolences to them .Sincerely MS3Kevin M Diggins
Steve McIlmail
April 3, 2012
I was proud to have served under him on The USS GUAM. Fair Winds and following Seas Captain
Norm Wilcox
April 3, 2012
On Board the Uss Guam in 1986 we were on our way back from the Med and we had just dropped off the Marines in Moorehead City,NC and we picked up Relitives there for the return trip to Norfolk! My Dad and I were on the Bridge for a tour and my Dad asked Captain Keim who was sitting in the Captains chair and he said that his Dad was allowed to sit in that chair!My Dad never forgot that! We all got a Big Laugh out of that! GOD SPEED!
Richard Hampton
April 2, 2012
I'm sad to learn of Capt. Kiem's passing. I, too, served under his command on the U.S.S. Guam as a Mess Specialist in the crew's galley, bakeshop and the wardroom. My condolences go out to his family
Tim Landry
April 2, 2012
I served under Captain Kiem on the USS Guam, he was an incredible Captain who seemed to really care about his men. Rest in peace Cap...
Greg Vargo
April 2, 2012
One of the best Skippers, if not the best, that i had the privelege to serve for!! A Sailor to the finest stardards. A force that will be ever lost to the public, but will always be in the minds and hearts of the Sailors and Marines that serve under and for him.
carl foster
April 2, 2012
my first co when assigned to uss guam and my favorite! you are in a damn near perfect place now and i am sure you are underway somewhere up there
Jim Rainer
April 2, 2012
No other Capt. could inspire you to do your best the way the skipper could. He was a true leader and a man we as a crew (USS Guam)would follow any where.
Bob Mackley
April 2, 2012
Served under Capt Kiem on board the USS Guam. While standing bridge watches he'd call me "shoe", short for black shoe. I have many fond memories of him and those days. God bless.
Bob Riddinger
April 2, 2012
I had the pleasure to serve under Captain Kiem on board the USS Guam. He treated everyone with respect, thus earning their respect and adoration. Fair winds and following seas Captain.
Chaz Maynard
February 3, 2012
Annie and family-I was so sad to hear about Bob's passing. I considered him to be a major force in my development as a Naval Aviator, from our days in VT-25 through my IP time in VA-174 and beyond. His class was enviable and I will miss his always upbeat personality. Truly, a "damn near perfect" Attack Pilot!
Frank Sausedo
February 3, 2012
I served with Lt. Kiem at Cecil Field (VA-44) in 1967. He was a great boss and a great guy. He flew me up to New York in 1968 for my sister's wedding in a TA4F> Will nebver forget that. We connected again just about 6 years ago when I went back to the Cecil Field Golf course to play again, and Bob recognized me and we ageed to play golf again, and I don't have to call him "SIR" anymore, just BOB. I went to the course today to look for him, and was told he passed away a few months ago. I didnt know his family, but I send my thoughts and prayers, and they know, as everyone else who met him, what a great guy and we were all lucky to have known him.
Frank Sausedo
Ponte Vedra Beach, Fl.
Being advanced to OS2
Stephen Rezler
January 29, 2012
I served under Capt. Kiem onboard USS Peleliu. He made us all proud to be under his command.
Joe Boyette
January 5, 2012
I just got to know Bob Kiem in 2011 when I began to help out with his lawn care as he battled his illness. He was a great guy, and although I knew he was a Navy pilot, I had no idea of the extent of his career until reading the obituary - wow! I enjoyed our conversations and will miss him.
December 23, 2011
Annie: Our thoughts are with you. We know there is a big void in your life. He was a wonderful neighbor and friend. When we would go out of town, he would get our mail and make our deposits for us. What a neighbor! We think of you often. God bless and keep you. Ron and Shirley Wagner
Saul Estrada
December 20, 2011
Rest in peace skipper. Served under him 1983. ICCS(SW/AW) RET
Todd Brimm
December 18, 2011
He was my first CO in the Navy and I was blessed to serve under him. May God's peace be with all of you.
December 17, 2011
Truly regret your sorrow. So appreciative we had the opportunity to know both of you and to call you friends.
Keep in touch Annie. Love, Alex & Shirley Kibler
David Furey BTCM (SW) Ret.
December 17, 2011
I had the honor of serving with Capt Keim as a new Chief Petty Officer Aboard the USS GUAM. There was never a finer man. My son Timothy will always remember him as the man who gave him the big nickle at Chrismas.
Wallace
December 14, 2011
Get some rest Skipper. You too Annie. We are all better for having known him. Thanks Miss Annie, for sharing him with all of us.
December 9, 2011
Annie, I was so sad to hear of Bob's passing, truly an end of an era is coming to pass. I think of our days together at Little Creek and the fun we had on your visit to Japan.
Love and prayers,
Cathy Smith
John R. Sanders
December 8, 2011
Annie,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in the passing of a great American patriot and Naval Officer. Bob was a natural leader -- together you made a wonderful team and were role models for the rest of us. Our deepest sympathy to you and your family.
J.R. and Judy Sanders
Jime Bowers
December 8, 2011
Dear Mrs Kiem,
I am sadden to learned of Bob's passing. Bob and I grew up together in the 50's. We are the same age and attended the same schools. Bob and I spent a lot time water skying, camping and performing Indian dances at the boy scout Camp Big Heart in Pensacola. I have fond memories of those times.
Jim Bowers
James Graczyk
December 6, 2011
Dear Mrs. Kiem,
I learned of your husbands passing yesterday when I received a letter from my Mom. (Mary Graczyk) I'm sorry for your loss, May God ease the pain alittle each day for you and your family.
Sincerely,
James A. Graczyk, USAF (Ret)
Hasty and Dee Williams
December 6, 2011
Annie...we are so glad we touched base with you and Bob recently. We have many fond memories of our years together in the service. Please know you and your family are, and will remain, in our thoughts and prayers.
Jeri Sue King CDR (ret)
December 6, 2011
Annie,
I just found about about CAPT Kiem's passing. He was my first true Skipper. He focused my thinking as he addressed his life as "Damn near perfect", and with you by his side, it must have been. He'll be missed, but there are many good memories that can be shared to honor his memory. My deepest sympathy to you and your family.
December 5, 2011
Dear Annie and family, It was with deep regret that I learned of your husband's passing. We were shipmates in the old FDR and a sister squadron. Your husband was a fine officer and a warrior who will be sorely missed by all those he touched and mentored during a long and distinguished naval career. God Bless You and Yours. Ken Craig, Capt. USN (Ret)
Tanya Lee
December 5, 2011
Annie, so many fond long ago memories. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Love, Tanya(Smith)Lee
Tink Johnston
December 5, 2011
Dear Annie,
Oh, how I wish I could be with you today for Bob's memorial service. I am so sorry, but you can bet that I will be thinking of you all day. Reading the tributes to Bob has confirmed what we knew, he was a wonderful person, a great dad and husband and the best man for any job he held in the US Navy.
Love you, Tink
John Ramsey
December 5, 2011
A great man, patriot, and role model. Captain Kiem was one of those guys that friends of his kids (Doug in this case), looked up to as a role model. I ran into him several years after both Doug and I graduated from high school and he took the time to invite me into his home and show me pictures of some of his recent flight duties -- Doug (my friend) wasn't even home at the time! He was just that kind of guy -- one of several that I have thought of over the years as my own life has evolved. Captain Kiem is truly one that made the world a better place and affected many lives without trying! Salute sir!
The Blackall Family
December 4, 2011
Mr. Bob, I will always remember never being able to walk outside of my parents house or walk down the street when I was a little girl without seeing your wonderful smile waiting to greet me! You were an amazing man and friend and you will be missed dearly. My thoughts and prayers are with you Mrs. Annie and your family.
JULIE and JIM BALKE
December 4, 2011
Bob...Our most sincere thanks for your outstanding service to our country. I think that all our American heroes since 1776 will be there waiting to salute you and slap your back. Also, you have been the best neighbor and friend anyone could ever have. We've been in awe of your service and of your humility since 1993 when you arrived back in the neighborhood. From keeping our runaway golden retriever "prisoner" in your garage, carrying our sunstricken Irish Setter to the vet and letting us sniff those delicious steaks on the grill every Friday night, you've been absolutely the best. We hate it that we will not be hearing your voice booming good humor all over the block. Your life has been more perfect than you know. I know you fought the last battle with all the integrity and courage that gave you character. May there always be a Guiness and a steak ready for you! Annie...our daily prayers have always been there for you and will continue.
Remember...we're only 30 feet away, if you need anything!
Charlie & Margie Sauls
December 4, 2011
Bob....our friend forever
Fly Away
Fly Away Home ...
Save a place for us .....
Mary Johnson
December 4, 2011
Annie, Bear, Beth and Katie, I am so sorry to hear of Bob's passing. I know how much he will be missed. You are all in my thoughts and prayers. Let me know if I can help in any way. Love, Mary Johnson
Nina (McCranie) Henry
December 3, 2011
Hi, Letty Ann, I did not know you guys were at Cecil Field - probably while I lived in Jax (1958 - 1978). I am also blessed to learn of your husband's wonderful service in the Navy. I was in the Pilot Club with your aunt for a number of years. God bless you and your family and give you His comfort now and in the future.
December 3, 2011
Annie, Our thoughts are with you and your family. It was an honour to serve with Bob in VA 174 and to count you both as friends. A damn near perfect CO. Alan and Pamela Selman. (The Limey) UK.
Jan Torpin
December 3, 2011
Annie, so many wonderful memories of a truly wonderful man! Having known "The Captain"(could never call him "Bob", felt it disrespectful!), has enriched my life. Standing by me and my boys when I lost Chuck gave me the strength to do what I had to do. Thank you, Dear "Captain"! Your "Damn near perfect" ways have served many! As your "Jet" arrives on that "Other Landing Strip", I'm sure Chuck is there to greet you; waiting to "swap stories"! God Bless you, Annie and family. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Sorry,I can't make it to the service on Monday.
Kathy Rhodes
December 3, 2011
Annie, I am so sorry for your loss. I did not know Bob as an adult but as a growing young man in the 50's. He was always so kind ~and cute~. I was friends with Betty. I lived up the street from them and was often in their home. God bless you and your family. Kathy Kwasin Rhodes
Glenn and Chris Vopper
December 3, 2011
Our love and prayers will always be with you and your family. We knew Bob as the proud father, the loving husband and the closest neighbor we could ever have. He was always willing to help anyone while bringing a good laugh to every situation. Bob's wonderful smile will always be missed on this earth.
God Bless.
December 3, 2011
Annie, You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
Lin Dasher
December 3, 2011
Bob., You will be missed by many, We know you will hit them straight and long... God bless you my friend. Des P.
Frank Brough
December 3, 2011
It is an honor to call Bob my friend and compatriot. We just know in our hearts that it was an OK-3.
CAPT Frank Brough, Class 03-63
IS1 Dennis Jackson
December 2, 2011
I served under Captain Kiem on the USS Peleliu. I will hold your family in my prayers.
ABF-2 Jim Beck (ret.)
December 2, 2011
My heart goes out to you in this time of your loss, I served on the USS Peleliu and it is true, we are a tight family. R.I.P. Capt.
BUD & MARY HOLMES
December 2, 2011
A great golfing partner that I knew for such a short time. Although the time was short Bob made a lasting impression. My only regret is that I never served under him as Bob would have been my idea of a man amoung men and a CO for all.
December 2, 2011
Annie: I am so sorry to learn of Bob's passing. I am even sorrier I will be unable to attend his memorial service due to a calendar conflict. He was so helpful after Hank passed away. Please know you and the family are in my thoughts and prayers and call me if I can be of help or you just want to talk. God bless.
Nancy Zambie
mark houston
December 2, 2011
My sincere condolences to you and the family. I was the little red headed kid across the street on River Oak Drive back in the late 60's early 70's
Lou Millson
December 2, 2011
Annie, I am so sorry. Love, prayers and deepest sympathy to you and yours. I am so sorry to have to miss Bob's service; I'm in Virginia. Love and prayers, Lou Millson
Pat and Larry Pickett
December 2, 2011
Dear Annie, we have so many mutual friends we feel like we know you through them. The aviation community has lost a true leader and friend. Thank you for sharing "Last Charlie" by Red Best. Our prayers are with you, your family and friends as you have a celebration of his "Damn Near Perfect" life.
Paul Mullendore
December 2, 2011
My condolences and sincerest sympathy to Capt Keim's family.
Paul Mullendore, CWO-3, USN, (Ret). Plankowner, USS Peleliu (LHA-5)
John Faust
December 2, 2011
OK-3 for sure!
Austin O'Brien
December 2, 2011
All Navy Carrier Pilots will mourn the life of a a dedicated man, father and friend. His place in Paradise is assured.
Bless Annie and her dedvotion to him during loyal service to the Nation.
I'll mourn his loss forever.
A. C. O'Brien, Capt. USN (ret)
December 2, 2011
Annie, we send you our most sincere condolences. I knew Bob as Betty's big brother, and he was always kind to put up with all of us giggling girls.
You and your family will be in our prayers.
Love,
Ann Love Suttle & Billy Glenn Suttle
Lillian, AL
December 2, 2011
Bob, our time together was way too short! Love, George & Linda
December 2, 2011
Annie and family...
Please accept my heartfelt sympathy at your great loss. Bob meant so much to so many...a warrior, leader, proud parent, and close friend. Bob's engaging personality and sincere concern for the welfare of others leave a legacy for all. All will miss him but none will forget him. May the good Lord ease your grief.
Sincerely,
CAPT Dick Catone, USN (Ret)
John Curtin
December 2, 2011
A giant among men. None finer! A wariors warrior. I would follw him anywhere and I guess I did.
Stain
December 2, 2011
May your eternity be filled with Peace, Love, and Free Beers.
Love Always, The Middlest
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