Robert Dewain Nalley

Robert “Bob” Dewain Nalley, age 77, of West Branch, Michigan passed away on 11 July 2020.

Bob was born 17 March 1943 to Harry and Edith (Gwaltney) Nalley into a large, close-knit, “rough as a cob” family in Eldorado, Illinois.

After graduating Eldorado High School, Bob enlisted in the Air Force, following his three older brothers into military service. He proudly served eight years as a weapons and control systems field technician, serving all over Southeast Asia and the US, with several tours in Vietnam. He was a member of the Air Force Judo team, earning second degree black belt, and was the Honor Graduate of his NCO leadership school.

He met Susan Herman at Wurtsmith Air Force Base and they married in 1964 while he was on leave from Vietnam.

After being honorably discharged as a staff sergeant, Bob then spent more than thirty years in the aerospace technology industry, working in the US, Europe, Asia and the Middle East.

Bob was a self-made, determined, and respected engineer, who rose from being an electrical engineer into management. His file was replete with commendations, MVP awards, and perfect reviews. After working at least a decade as an engineer, he was told he would actually have to get some sort of engineering degree, so in true “Nalley form”, he eventually earned a PhD in Engineering, became an adjunct professor at La Salle University, and became a Certified Professional Logistician in the International Society of Logistics. With all these accomplishments, he chose his “craps diploma” from Las Vegas and had it framed for his office instead of the engineering degrees and awards.

Bob always took care of his family and was eventually ordained as a deacon at his Baptist church. He loved fishing, bow and rifle hunting, and being outdoors. He was especially proud to pass on his skills to his granddaughter and to obtain his Michigan State “Master Angler” status.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 55 years, Susan, his daughter, Heather, his granddaughter Leila, his son-in-law Joseph, and five siblings, Kathleen Burtis, James and Marion Nalley, Lynda Poole and Ann Simpson. He was preceded in death by his parents and his stepdad Charlie Hickman, who raised him and taught him all about electronics and being resourceful, and by his older brother, Clarence.

In his own words, he was always proud to serve God and Country. He will be sorely missed by his loved ones and friends. He will be laid to rest at Arlington National Cemetery with fellow patriots and heroes.

Memorial contributions can be made to Calvary Baptist Church in West Branch Attn: Benevolent Fund.

Arrangements were handled by Steuernol & McLaren Funeral Home in West Branch. www.steuernolmclaren.com