Robert “Bob” Allen Sturm, aged 77, passed away peacefully on March 19, 2024, in Lancaster, S.C., Bob, as he was fondly known to all, was a man whose life was marked by unwavering courage, gentle nature, and pervasive kindness.
Born on Oct. 17, 1946, in Belington, Bob embarked on a life journey that would lead him down a path of distinguished service and loving family life. After 56 years of a joyous and loving marriage, his devoted wife, Donna Lee Sturm, survives him. Together they raised a beautiful family that includes their daughters, Melissa Coombs (Doug) of Masontown, CoAnna DeWitt (Rick) of Masontown, and Tina Sturm (Brian Stasczak) of Fort Lawn, S.C. His legacy continues to live on in his cherished grandchildren, Chad DeWitt (Mandra), Bethany Wiles, Hunter Allen DeWitt (Hailea), Molli Coombs, Isabella DeWitt (Luke Deavers), Olivia Coombs; and great-grandchildren, Jayce Allen Dean and Lane Allen DeWitt.
Bob was the loving brother to Delores Jewell of Morgantown, and Tom Sturm (Debbie) of Troutman, N.C.
Bob’s life was characterized by his exceptional dedication to his country; he served 22 years in the United States Navy with honor and distinction. Beginning his service with 12 years enlisted in active duty, including three tours in Vietnam, he was a testament to tenacity and bravery. Bob’s commitment to excellence led to his selection as a Limited Duty Officer (LDO), eventually retiring as a Lieutenant after his final station on the U.S.S. Joseph Strauss at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, in 1988.
In his life beyond the Navy, Bob filled his days with passions that brought joy to him and those around him. Bob served his community as a volunteer firefighter for 10 years at Reedsville, Company 9. He also served the Lord through Springdell Baptist Church in Lancaster, S.C. In every prayer, and every moment spent with his beloved family, especially in spoiling his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions be made in Bob’s memory to the Vietnam Veterans Association, at https://vva.org/donate/?form=FUNDAVTAZBC or by mailing a check to: 8719 Colesville Road, Suite 100 Silver Spring, MD 20910.
Family and friends are invited to gather for visitation at McCulla Funeral Home from 5-7 p.m. on Friday, March 22, and again on Saturday, March 23, from 10 a.m. until the 11 a.m. funeral service with Pastor Terry Wilt officiating. Interment will follow at Beverly Hills Memorial Gardens with full military honors conferred by the United States Navy Funeral Honors.
Condolences:
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