Robert Markham

Robert "Bob" Markham of Longwood, Florida was born August 17,1941 in Durham, NC. He is predeceased by his Parents Joyce P. and James W. Markham, brother's Donald of Durham, NC and James W. Jr. of Lumberton, NC along with his sister Peggy Bell of Snellville, GA. He is survived by his wife of 53 years Barbara Jane and Sons Jeff and Greg of New Smyrna Beach, FL as well as sister Carol Perry, of Durham, NC and numerous nieces and nephews. Robert graduated from Durham High School where he excelled in baseball and football. He entered the USAF where he was able to serve his country as a fuel specialist and water and alcohol specialist for Presidents Eisenhower, Kennedy and Johnson for Air Force One when he was stationed at Andrews Air Force base. After his military service ended in 1964 where he worked for TWA as stock manager of aircraft parts and materials at Dulles Airport, later transferring to Cape Kennedy, FL. In 1966 after working in several positions with TWA he left after the moon landing in 1969 and entered the insurance claim business with Nationwide Insurance in Brevard County. He served as President of the Brevard Claims Association. He and Jane served their church Rockledge United Methodist until he was transferred to Orlando in 1972 and was a pioneer in starting "live wire" claim service for Nationwide. In late 1973 The Hartford, became his employer and he worked as a Regional Claims Supervisor until given his own office in 1984. He was a member of the Orlando Claims Association, President of Orlando Claims Managers Council and was instrumental is starting the mediation process used between litigants and insurance companies. Robert retired from Hartford in 1997 and later helped with a start up company, North American Risk Services. He was Assistant Vice President and Program Manager of claims from all over the world entailing all aspects of insurance. He retired from NARS in 2005 to pursue his hobbies of golf, traveling, fishing and cooking until he encountered cancer in 2007. He loved spending time with his sons and worked diligently building ball fields for Seminole P.O.N.Y baseball complex at Five Points in Sanford as well as coaching multiple teams. In 1976 he became president and was instrumental in bringing girls softball to the park which helped over 1200 kids yearly have the opportunity to experience the game of baseball, softball and later soccer. Robert was also an annual member of the Orlando and Winter Park Bassmasters and became the Champion of the Winter Park Club in 1999. He and Jane were also members of Rolling Hill Golf Club until 2009. A Celebration of Robert's life will be held on Friday, May 27 at Baldwin Fairchild East Altamonte. Gathering to begin at 10:30am with service at 11:30am. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Hospice of the Comforter or The Ronald McDonald House.