Robert N. Wilford

Robert Nicholas Wilford, Jr. went to heaven February 26th at 90 years of age. His accomplishments are many. He was a successful leader of men as a captain in the 84th Infantry Division in WWII and, years later, wrote a book about his experiences. He wrote it only for his wife and children, but it's been reprinted three times as more family and friends are fascinated by his story. Graduating from U of Illinois in Journalism, Bob became an astute businessman in various careers -- Bowman Dairy sales, Paragon Printing, financial planning, starting a hometown newspaper in Cary, IL, and ending his career as the CEO of Auto Moulding & Manufacturing in Chicago. He was active in the Suburban Veteran's Chorus, Methodist Church choir, Administration Board, and men's groups, Kiwanis, politics, and SCORE (helping small businesses to survive and prosper). He was president of Friends of the Auditorium and Arts and Humanities Council, and Chairman of the Punta Gorda Planning Commission, and Charlotte County Zoning Board, just to name a few.

He retired at 52 and moved to Florida -- choosing to spend his years enjoying his family rather than spending himself to make wealth. He always said his main purpose in life was to care for his family and his success as a husband, father, and grandfather is proven by the fact that every member of his family turned to him for counsel and encouragement at every turning point of his/her life. Family rushed here from six states and even from Australia to see him one more time and say goodbye. He is adored and honored by everyone who knew him and will be sorely missed.

He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Rosalie S. Wilford, 5 children: Joanne Poore and Lynne Wilford of Port Charlotte, Jim (Sandy), and Tom (Janice) Wilford of Illinois, and Sandy Forbes of Nebraska; 15 grandchildren; and 8 great grandchildren. He is our hero.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to Tidewell Hospice or to First United Methodist Church of Punta Gorda.