Robert Herman Ketels

Mr. Robert H. Ketels, age 78 of Bermuda Run, NC, passed away August 25, 2024. He was born in Chicago on April 26, 1946, to the late Herman A. Ketels and Evelyn Blie Ketels. Bob is survived by his beloved wife of 46 years Kathy (nee Kramer), and devoted sisters Karen Ketels Gard (the late Bill Gard) and Marianne Ketels. Also survived by his mother-in-law Shirley Nyman and a number of cousins, both in the U.S. and Europe. Bob was a proud graduate of St. Ignatius College Preparatory School in Chicago and Boston College, from which he graduated with a degree in political science. He remained a life-long supporter of Boston College. After college he enlisted in the U.S. Army and served in the U.S. and Germany as a military intelligence specialist. He continued to work for his country for some 40 years at the Department of Veterans Affairs, from which he retired as an Assistant Director of the Winston Salem Veterans Affairs Office. The VA was special to Bob because it was there that he met his wife with whom he spent 46 wonderful years. Upon retirement, Bob traveled, pursued his interest in astronomy, and became active in the Bald Head Island Conservancy, where he served as board president for several years. He will always be remembered by friends and family for his kind heart and generous spirit, and will be missed enormously by all.  

Details are to come regarding a memorial gathering for Bob. An inurnment service will be held at a later date at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, VA.

 In lieu of flowers, the family invites friends to consider donations to Boston College (www.bc.edu/give) or the Bald Head Island Conservancy (bhic.org).

Online condolences may be made at www.hayworth-miller.com.