Robert Roy Rosenau

In Loving Memory of Robert Roy Rosenau April 10, 1929- November 28, 2024 Robert Roy Rosenau’s 95-year voyage through life left a lasting impact, with his vibrant personality brightening every place he ventured, both on land and at sea. He was a respected veteran, husband, father, son, uncle, and grandfather—a remarkably adored man. Born on April 10, 1929, to Arthur and Florence Rosenau. Robert was raised in Detroit, Michigan, in a home filled with love and warmth, alongside his siblings, Jack, Muriel, and Betty. Robert had extended family close by he was very fond of Uncle Al who owned a nuts and bolts factory, Aunt Lola May, and Cousin Tommy to name a few. Robert adored his mother Florence; he cherished the memories of her singing “Lazy bones, sitting in the sun” while hanging clothes on the line. This tune was hummed by Robert for over ninety years, a constant reminder of his childhood. His childhood was enriched by the companionship of their beloved dog, Foxy. His bond with Foxy would prove to impact his care and adornment for all animals. From an early age, Robert was known for his adventurous spirit, strong sense of duty, and admiration for the sea. These qualities would serve as his steady compass throughout his life. Robert was inspired by his brother-in-law, Charlie, who he modeled much of his life after. Robert admired the respect and magnetic presence Charlie commanded. Charlie was such a force on Robert he too was able to unlock these personality traits himself which earned him the same admiration from those around him, especially aboard ships. Robert joined the Merchant Marines following Charlie's footsteps, during World War II at the tender age of 15. With a tenacity to serve, he adjusted his birth year to follow the call of duty and join the war efforts. Robert embarked on his first voyages, helping protect vital cargo from German U-boats in perilous water in the West Indies. Robert shared stories from his time in service, highlighting the camaraderie, bravery of his crew and their victories against foreign threats. After World War II, Robert continued his service by joining the U.S. Army in 1951, where he served in both the Korean and Vietnam Wars. Promoted to Corporal, and served until 1959. Following his time in the Army, he joined the U.S. and Panamanian Coast Guard, exemplifying his unwavering dedication to his country throughout his career. A memorable voyage took Robert to Brazil, where he met Valentina, a singer whose performance left a lasting impression on him. Their love story blossomed across oceans and borders, from wedding in Gibraltar to starting a life together in the United States. During their time on the California coastline, Robert and Valentina started their loving family, surrounded by the beauty of the ocean. Their journey together eventually came to a close, as they both set sail on their own adventures in life. Robert's natural sense of service and protection shone brightly during a family trip to the beach in Virginia. When a lifeguard called everyone out of the water due to a shark sighting, while others hurriedly retreated in fear, Robert dove right in. In that moment of panic, he became a source of strength and reassurance, offering support to those who were overwhelmed by the situation. This is just one of many memories that highlight Robert's innate heroism and unwavering courage in times of crisis. His voyages took him around the world on notable ships like the RJ Pfeiffer, John Lykes and Lurline. Robert rose to the rank of Second Mate Navigator, mastering celestial navigation with a sextant and the stars. Further showcasing his sea experience he served as First Mate on the Catalina, ferrying passengers between Los Angeles and Catalina Island. It was at a port in Long Beach, California, where he found his true treasure—a love that would anchor him for the rest of his life. While sitting at a bar on the ocean owned by his soon to be beloved, Kathryn served Robert her famous chili. Robert, known for his charming quick wit and ability to keep people on their toes, had met his match in Kathryn, a spirit as lively and sharp as his own. Their journey began, and together, they navigated the rest of their lives with that same spark. Anchoring their love Robert and Kathryn wed in 1978, blending their beloved families and creating a legacy of love, tenacity, empowerment, and exploration that would inspire generations to come. Robert took immense pride in standing by Kay’s side as they became partners in both life and business. When he bought out her business partners at the oceanside bar, it wasn’t just a financial decision, it was an act of unwavering faith in Kay’s vision. In a time when women in business were rare, Robert didn’t just support Kay—he celebrated her independence and strength. Together, they continued to build a unique and thriving bar, their combined personalities creating a place people couldn’t wait to return to. Side by side, their partnership in life flourished. Robert adored his darling Kay. While overseas, his heart was always charting a course back to her. Thinking of her often as she held down the coastline with strength and grace. As his sea adventures carried him across the globe, Robert eagerly sought out jewelry in ports; each piece was chosen to reflect where he had been and what he had seen. The excitement of returning home and adorning her with these treasures filled him with joy, as it was his way of showing her how cherished and adored she was. It was a way to bring a piece of his adventures back to her, making her part of the journey. Kay was just as thrilled for Robert’s return from his sea travels, knowing she had handmade treasures waiting to adorn him. Each shirt she designed had meticulously selected fabrics and patterns to reflect his bright spirit and adventurous nature. Each was woven with her love. Robert and Kay had a special way of doting on each other, their thoughtful gestures demonstrated that one another were always top of mind, even across oceans. Before buttoning up one of Kay’s creations, Robert would often pause, as a blushing smile spread across his face when seeing her signature design tag—Made by Kathryn Rosenau. It was a simple yet powerful reminder of the love and care she poured into each shirt, a piece of her heart that traveled with him across the seas. While many men aboard ship clung to letters from their wives, Robert had Kay’s love surrounding him. Robert often joked that he was born in the wrong era, longing for the life of cowboys, a sentiment reflected in his admiration for Clint Eastwood and John Wayne. A man of rugged yet refined character, Robert held a deep respect for his style and daily presentation. He dedicated time to ensuring he was polished, clean-shaven, and fully prepared to meet the day. His routine was completed with proudly wearing pins of service, each one honoring his time served, a proud reflection of his dedication to his country. His love for the western life was brought to fruition with Kathryn in Placerville, CA. Together at their home ranch they raised and rescued many goats including Bubbles, Salt & Pepper, and Sunday. Robert cherished his time with the goats and often snuck them inside the home—Bubbles even left her mark by chewing on the bathroom towels. Robert’s love and commitment to his animals shined through in every way, as he ensured they were healthy while they happily pranced around the pasture. Their donkey, Come-Along, was Robert’s loyal companion, always eager to follow him wherever he went. The name “Come-Along” came from Robert’s own saying, “Oh, come along,” which he’d happily call to his friend if he strayed away. Robert found donkeys endlessly amusing. Come-Alongs quirky personality and gentle nature brought constant joy to Robert, who couldn’t help but laugh at his antics. Together, they were two joyful spirits, happy and content exploring the pasture. While Robert was away at sea, Come-Along would chew on the fence posts, eagerly waiting for his return. When their cat befriended a skunk, Robert wasn’t phased by the potential for a spray. Instead, he welcomed the little skunk, focusing on how to keep it warm through the winter, which led to building the skunk a cozy spot in the open barn. While others might have shooed the skunk away, Robert embraced it. Placerville is also where Robert brought home Foxy (No. 2), whom he named in honor of his childhood dog. After years of pets and property, it was time to leave California and head off into retirement. Robert and Kathryn moved to Laughlin, NV. Settling into their slower paced lives on land and in the desert,. Robert admired the mountain ridges behind his home that would shape the sky during sunset. He was well known at local pet rescues and dog shelters, where the teams trusted his caring heart to save as many pets as possible. He found joy in spending his days doting on his cherished pets: Candy Bar, Sugar, Coffee, Chelsea, Brandy, Tinker Bell, Lucky Lady 1, Lucky Lady 2, and Sassy Bear—each a rescue that thrived under their loving care. Every morning, Robert began his routine by brushing their teeth and gently washing their faces, ensuring that each pet felt loved and cared for. His days were spent sharing his meals with his dogs, making sure they had as much affection as they did food. Robert found a town called Oatman, a Hollywood retreat for stars including Clark Gable with wild burrows and a Showdown Shootout every day. He delighted in buying 1 dollar bricks of grass and feeding it to the wild burrows. A true sight to see- 5-6 burrows eating out of his pockets and hands- while Robert laughed and giggled like a little boy ensuring they all knew they were good and getting equal shares. His fondness of his Donkey, Come Along, was mirrored with the wild burros of Oatman acting as a delightful time capsule. Robert felt it was incredibly important to always give back to others. He donated annually for decades to charitable agencies such as Paralyzed Veterans of America, while continuing civic duty through the Elks Lodge. Robert had good fortune on sea and at war, but he has never forgotten fallen comrades or those he loved. Time spent at sea instilled in Robert a deep sense of structure and organization. His notes were meticulously kept, and every detail mattered—whether it was following instructions, performing maintenance, or keeping records. Robert’s attention to detail was something his family cherished, as those who knew him understood that his precision was born from experience. Like a ship navigating treacherous waters, his keen attention to detail was what kept him and his crews out of harm’s way. Having weathered countless life-or-death situations, Robert knew that one wrong move could be critical, and in those moments, every detail counted. His attention to detail became an intrinsic core value. A quality mirrored with Kathryn’s quilting, every stitch requiring her keen attention . There was a sense of tranquility that came with being around Robert; everything had its place, and every task was done with care. He found joy in the intricacy of everyday things, often taking items apart to clean them before carefully reassembling them. Jewelry received his thoughtful touch; each clasp and snap was handled with care, as if sifting through the memories each piece held. Each piece was a tangible reminder of a place, person, or experience that left an impact. While Robert quietly relived those moments he would have a blushing smile. The family shared in loving moments of his attention to detail like The TV remote dubbed the “TV Gun” was followed with a handling orientation that he proudly gave all of us. For road trips especially with any of the women in his life, Robert would love to show off the trunk of the Oldsmobile, which was stocked with every possible vehicle maintenance item one might need. His thoughtfulness extended to Kay, too. While he respected her independence, Robert always made sure her truck was ready for any possible emergency. His time on land was also shared by embracing his cowboy spirit by watching westerns enjoying cherry pies and a wide variety of sweets with Kathryn by his side. Robert’s life was a testament to courage, dedication, and love, woven through his roles as a veteran, merchant marine, coast guardsmen, husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and son. His humorous and positively uplifting traits will forever be admired by us all. Robert is survived by his sister Betty, children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and his Sassy Bear—all of whom proudly cherish their relationships with him and the fond memories made. Roberts' cowboy spirit and sailor heart will forever be honored, remembered, and adored for generations to come. As he embarks on his final voyage, we share him our farewell with the words he often lived by: “Steady as she goes”, “See you later alligator” “After a while, crocodile.” “Don’t Take any Wooden Nickels” “Red sky at night, sailor’s delight. Red sky in the morning, sailor’s take warning.” “Smile kid- you’re on TV” “Here’s Johnny” Robert enjoyed singing “thank you for the memories” in weeks prior to passing. Robert enjoyed a long goodbye and it appears this is a long winded ending after his own heart- his trade mark hand wave and fun goodbyes that would tease you into saying hello again- maybe that was the point- a way to never say goodbye- Hasta Luego, Manaña, Beuno~ A military funeral will be held to honor and respect Robert's remarkable life and service to his country. If you would like to honor and celebrate the life of Robert R. Rosenau as we lay him to rest and or you would love to share a story or a photo, please reach out to us at kaybobrosenau@gmail.com. Your presence is welcomed. We will share the finalized service details date, time, and location upon request in email. If you would prefer a hardcopy of the obituary by mail, kindly provide your address.

Robert Roy Rosenau

April 10, 1929 - November 28, 2024