Lt. Col. Robert W. “Bob” Burton, a proud Vietnam Veteran, age 96, of Galena, IL, and Panama City Beach, FL, completed his earthly journey on December 2, 2025, at home while surrounded by his loving family.  To honor Bob’s life, a memorial service will be held at the Grace Episcopal Church in Galena at a later date.  Entombment will be in the church mausoleum.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Bob’s family.

Bob was born on June 15, 1929, in Flint, MI, a son to Frank and Shellie (Emerson) Burton.  He went on to honorably serve his country with the U.S. Army for 30 years as an anesthesiologist until his retirement.  Bob always enjoyed spending his summers in Galena and making his way to Florida in the winters.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Bob include,

his partner of 35 years,
Harold Martin, Galena, IL;

his dear friend,
Kelly “Casey” Walters, Galena, IL;

his daughter,
Michelle Burton, Salinas, CA;

his grandchildren,
Sierra Burton, Salinas, CA,
and Megan Lee (Todd) Hearnsberger, Salinas, CA;

his great-granddaughter,
Kinsley Hearnsberger, Salinas, CA;

his nieces and nephews,
Joan (Burton) Hunault, Mary Burton, John (Gwen) Meisenbach, Betsy (Meisenbach) Wuebker, Susan Meisenbach, Steve Medemar, Shelly (Medemar) Fortenberry, Judy Medemar, and Jack (Diane) Medemar;

along with numerous extended family, friends and neighbors.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents; his son, Craig Burton; his daughter, Kim Brown; and his siblings, Jack (Nina) Burton, Jean (John) Meisenbach, Richard Burton, and Bob’s twin sister Mary (Charles) Medemar.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Bob’s name to the Grace Episcopal Church in Galena, IL, Hospice of Dubuque, or the charity of your choice.

Bob’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Hospice of Dubuque for all of their professional and compassionate care.

Online condolences may be shared with Bob’s family at www.tristatecremationcenter.com