Robert Heath

Robert E. "Bob" Heath, 81, passed away Thursday, Nov. 1, 2012, at his home in Friedheim. He valiantly fought right up to the end and will be sorely missed.

He was born Nov. 25, 1930, in Cape Girardeau, to Walter "Chick" and Edith Haman Heath. He and Helen B. Rigger were married Feb. 3, 1955, at Larson Air Force Base in Topeka, Kan.

Bob was in the U.S. Navy Reserve from 1947 to 1951. He joined the U.S. Air Force in 1951 and was an accomplished pilot during both the Korean conflict and Vietnam War. He flew the F-84E, RB47H, B-47E, and models B, C, D, E, F and H of the 52 Bomber. He received multiple valors for his service and was honorably discharged in 1975.

He and Helen then returned to Friedheim.

Survivors include his loving wife of 57 years, Helen of Friedheim; four children, Mona Esqueda of San Diego, Laura Vernon, Carla Buchheit and Shawn Lemonds, all of Friedheim; two sisters, Carol Tritchler of New Castle, Colo., Pat (the late Hugh) Smith of Cape Girardeau; eight grandchildren, Michell, Melanie and Mandy of San Diego, Bill (Katie) Blyze of O'Fallon, Mo., Chris (Nikki) Buchheit and Jenny (the late Justin) Bey of Perryville, Mo., James and Ashley Lemonds of Friedheim.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a grandson, Robby Proffer; and a sister, Barbara Livigni.

There are no services.

Announcement by McCombs Funeral Home and Cremation Center in Jackson.

Online condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.mccombsfuneralhome.com.