Robert Edward Choate's Obituary
Robert ‘Bob’ Edward Choate, a Dallas native, born the first son and middle child of Francis ‘Frank’ Anderson and Anna ‘Maurine’ (Tucker) Choate on Thursday, February 09, 1928 in Dallas, Texas was surrounded by family as he peacefully went to his heavenly home on Friday, February 19, 2016 in Dallas, Texas; at the age of 88. Bob attended Forest Avenue High School before joining the U.S. Navy in February of 1945 to serve his country until March of 1948 as a Fireman First Class. Enjoying his time as a seaman during World War II, Bob then chose to serve his nation by also joining the U.S. Air Force in May of 1951; where he happily served as a Staff Sergeant until October of 1953, during the Korean War. Bob met Mary in the early ’50’s and they joined in holy matrimony on July 02, 1953 in Rockwall, Texas. Bob and Mary spent many years together raising their loving daughters, being avid church goers and enjoying community fellowship. After serving in both military branches, Bob had the opportunity to join the refrigeration, heating and air conditioning industry; during which time he had the honor of working for several well known companies in town; including Hussmann and Schepps Dairy. Bob & Mary ventured out into business on their own by starting Allied Refrigeration in the mid ’60’s and Nor-Tex Refrigeration Co. in 1982. Serving the Dallas, Fort Worth and Austin markets, Bob not only took pride in his business, but truly relished the friends he made during his 50+ years in the industry. Over the years, his expertise, morals, business practices and reputation led him to be highly respected by many. Bob had such a passion for the Lord, even through his final days, hymns would often be sung along to and scripture enjoyed. Bob’s active role over the years in the church consisted of many acts of kindness. He loved serving his church family by volunteering his time, expertise and support. Bob could accomplish anything he put his mind to. He enjoyed collecting all things which could be made new again. During his later years, Bob found a new passion for the outdoors. He will be greatly remembered for his green thumb and the ability to make anything grow. Bob has many friends and family in Dallas and will be sorely missed. We will reflect on his recent title of “The Town Mayor” as many affectionately called him; it certainly speaks volumes as to his friendly nature. Bob was preceded in death by his loving wife of 59 years, Mary Michlyn (Birdsong) Choate; his father, Francis ‘Frank’ Anderson Choate; his mother, Anna ‘Maurine’ (Tucker) Choate; his father-in-law, Irwin ‘IG’ Gustava Birdsong; his mother-in-law, Sarah Frances (LaBarba) Birdsong; his brother-in-law, Milton ‘Mike’ Marvin Mobley Jr.; his brother-in-law, Sherman Stanley Birdsong; his sister-in-law, Eleanor ‘Raye’ (Albright) Birdsong and his grandson, Robert ‘Bobby’ Wayne Hattersley. Bob is survived by his older sister, Norma Frances (Choate) Mobley and his baby brother, Richard Bailey Choate (Wife, Tressie); daughters, Patsy Caruthers (Husband, Casey), Sheri Ross (Husband, Mike), Cheryl Sorrels (Husband, Randy), Lois Choate and Norma Auvenshine; grandchildren, Debbie, Brian (Wife, Angie), Shawn, Jamie (Husband, Patrick), Jennifer, Robert, Clay (Wife, Stephanie), Andy (Wife, Ashley) and Ronald; numerous great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews. Family will receive friends on Monday, February 22, 2016 from 6-8 PM at Restland Funeral Home. Service will be held on Tuesday, February 23, 2016 at 10:00 AM in at Restland Wildwood Chapel. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to: Alzheimer’s Association In Memory of Robert Choate www.act.alz.org
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