Robert E. “Bob” Kipfinger, 87, of Punta Gorda, Florida, formerly of South Boston and North Abington, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully Tuesday, June 24, 2014 in Port Charlotte, Florida.

Bob was a World War II Navy veteran who served on the USS South Dakota (aka: Battleship X). While serving, he crossed the equator and Arctic earning certificates of Shell Back and Blue Nose. Bob loved boating, always owning boats throughout the years motoring on Boston Harbor and Cape Cod, and when he moved the family to Florida in 1974 he spent many hours on Charlotte Harbor. In addition to boating, he enjoyed vacationing to many places as well as camping in Cape Cod.

Bob was an automotive mechanic by trade. He owned several gas stations throughout the years in Massachusetts. After retiring to Florida, he re-entered the workforce with Gator Utilities in Fort Myers, finally finishing his career with Charlotte County Parks and Recreation.

Bob is survived by his wife Catherine (nee – Mendolia) of more than 50 years, and six children, Diane (Jim) Billotte, Debbie (Louis) Medina, Michael Kipfinger, Valerie (Kevin) Moore, Stephen (Celene) Kipfinger, and Frank Kipfinger. He was blessed with many grandchildren and great-grandchildren that will miss grandpa dearly.

A Memorial service with U.S. Navy Military Honors will be held 11:00 A.M. this Tuesday, July 1, 2014 at Roberson Funeral Homes Port Charlotte Chapel.

Arrangements are by Roberson Funeral Homes & Crematory, Port Charlotte Chapel.