Obituary of Bobby Eugene Lanier

BOBBY (PAPA) EUGENE LANIER, 83

 

On Tuesday, April 4, 2023, surrounded by those who loved him the most, Bobby Eugene Lanier promoted to heaven. He was 83 years old.

 

Bobby, or ‘Papa’ to all that knew him, experienced the type of life few could imagine. His life tells the story of a man deeply committed to adventure, his nation, and most importantly, his family. Papa wasn’t always quick to speak, but he seemed to never meet a stranger. He had a way about him that put others at ease. He was intense and passionate but never overly concerned about the small things that so easily distract others from the most important things in life. He was fiercely loyal to those he loved. Gave of his time, talents and treasure whenever asked. He lived a simple yet full life.

 

Papa answered a call to serve our nation and joined an era of men willing to do anything to stand a post and protect our freedoms. He first enlisted in the United States Marine Corp as an underage teenager in 1965. He was unwilling to wait his turn when he believed his country needed him. He later served in the United States Navy with the Underwater Demolition Team. This was the group of men who would later become known as the Navy Seals. His desire to serve his nation continued when he later enlisted in the United States Air Force. Between his service with three different branches of the military, Papa became a police officer with the Tucson Police Department. Service and sacrifice weren’t catchy words or phrases for Papa. He believed it. He lived it. And that commitment took him around the world and allowed him to see and experience things that others only read about in books.

 

He was Honorably retired from The Unites States Navy on November 1, 1997 after 32 Years of service.  

 

Upon retirement from the military Papa began to chase one of his true passions in life. He loved horses and the southwest culture of cowboy life. He was an accomplished team roper and for years was a fixture on the local rodeo scene. His belt buckle collection is evidence of his talent and love to ride horses and rope. Retirement also allowed him to play golf, watch old westerns, and spend time with his family. Papa loved his family fiercely. And in his latter years his great grandchildren brought him tremendous joy.

 

Bobby is survived by his wife of 55 years, Dorothy, his daughter Donna Shockley, grandsons, Brian Lattimore (Rachel Lattimore), Chris Collins (Sharon Collins), great grandchildren, Madison Lattimore, Cason Collins, Kaylyn Collins, Taylor Lattimore, Colbie Collins and Harper Lattimore, and family friend Chrissy Haynes.

 

A memorial service is scheduled for Wednesday, May 3, 2023, 9am.

Oro Valley Church of Nazarene

500 W Calle Concordia

Oro Valley AZ 85704

 

Laid to rest at Veterans Memorial Cemetery at 12noon.

15950 N Luckett Rd

Marana AZ 85653

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