Robert Blankenberg

Robert "Bob" Norval Blankenberg

November 4, 1960 – March 1, 2025

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Robert “Bob” Norval Blankenberg on March 1, 2025. Born on November 4, 1960, Bob was a beloved father, partner, educator, and athlete who left a lasting impact on everyone who knew him.

Bob is survived by his partner, Rickie Gonzales, and their four cherished children: Lexi Gonzales-Blankenberg, John Gonzales-Blankenberg, Abbie Gonzales-Blankenberg, and Elizabeth Gonzales-Blankenberg and mom Carol MClouth and sister Sue Blankenberg. His unwavering love and dedication to his family will always be remembered.

Bob had a lifelong passion for softball and played with the North American Gay Amateur Athletic Alliance (NAGAAA) in Phoenix, AZ (Cactus City), San Antonio, TX (SA Pride Softball), and Austin, TX (Softball Austin). The friendships and camaraderie he built within the league were a significant part of his life.

Beyond his love for the sport, Bob found his true calling in education. He began teaching in 2011 in Phoenix, AZ, and in 2013, after relocating to San Antonio, TX, he continued his career at Robert C. Zamora Middle School in the South San Antonio Independent School District (SSAISD). Teaching was not just his profession but his passion, and he took immense pride in guiding and inspiring his students. One of his greatest joys was the opportunity to teach his three eldest children at Zamora Middle School, a memory he held close to his heart. In 2024, Bob’s dedication and excellence in education were recognized by the Texas Education Agency (TEA) through the Teacher Incentive Allotment (TIA) program, where he was honored as an Exemplary Teacher—a testament to his incredible impact on his students and colleagues.

Bob courageously battled Stage 4 metastatic melanoma with resilience and strength. Though he fought until the very end, his legacy of kindness, perseverance, and passion for teaching will continue to inspire those who knew him.

Bob’s life was filled with love, laughter, and a deep commitment to his family, students, and friends. He will be profoundly missed but never forgotten.