Ernest John Bobko's Obituary
Ernie "Bob" was born in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania to parents Francis and Theresa (Pfeifer) Bobko. Bob was one of 4 children: 2 brothers, Melchoir and Frank, and a sister Mary.Bob was raised by his father's sister and her husband, John and Elizabeth Kondrath, in Chicago, Illinois and graduated from high school there. After high school, he joined the Army and served from 1939 to 1961, serving in both World War II and the Korean War. While stationed at Fort Lewis, he met his future wife, Catherine Roberts, who was visiting friends. After a brief courtship, they were married in Anchorage, Alaska where Bob was stationed. A son, John Roberts Bobko, was born at Elmendorf AFB in Anchorage. Bob completed his tour of duty at Fort Richardson, Alaska and was assigned to Fort Lewis, Washington until his retirement in 1961 as a Lieutenant Colonel. The Bobko's settled in Lakewood.Bob then returned to school, attending Pacific Lutheran University achieving a BA in Education, and later his Master's degree. Bob taught elementary school for many yers in the Clover Park Schools, teaching 4th grade. He retired in 1985 and devoted his time to work in the church, Bible study, and later, caring for his wife as she became ill.Bob is survived by son, John and his wife Diane, his grandsons Brian and Aaron, and several nieces and a nephew.Interment will be at Tahoma National Cemetery, and the memorial service will be at 7:00 PM on Thursday, June 2, 2005 at Orchard Street Church of Christ. Memorials are suggested to Orchard Street Church of Christ.
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