Robert Lee Brockman Jr.

Robert Lee Brockman Jr., 87 passed peacefully on Saturday July 9th at 7:10 am in Bowie, Maryland due to complications following a short illness. His wife Laura Marie (Abaigar) Brockman and his daughter Leesa Helene Brockman were by his side. Robert Brockman was born on September 6th, 1934 in Brownsville, Texas to Robert Lee Brockman Sr. and Ruth Brockman (both deceased). He is preceded in death by his two sisters (Barbara Crane and Betty Vice). Robert (Bob) graduated from Brownsville High School in 1952, and went on to complete his Bachelor’s degree in Education and a Master’s degree in Rehabilitation.

Bob was blessed with a loving family. In his first marriage to Ellener (Wagner) Brockman (deceased) they had their daughter Leesa (born in 1965). In his second marriage to Suzanne Sherman, his stepson (Chad Larendeau) and daughter in law, Jennifer Cox, blessed him with his grandson, Cameron Laurendeau (deceased). On October 22, 2011, Bob married Laura Marie (Abaigar) Brockman and her 3 children Zarahemla, Jared and Gilead joined the Brockman family.

Bob had an army of friends he considered family and they considered him their family member. During Bob’s life he stayed in close contact with classmates and friends from all phases of his life. He always made himself available. Many family members and friends looked to Bob for his wisdom, humor and unconditional support. Bob always had time to answer a question no matter how trivial. He loved long conversations and gave such great hugs.

Bob moved from Brownsville, Texas to Tucson, Arizona in 1970 where he worked at the University of Arizona. He relocated to San Diego in 1974 where he resided for 42 years. While in San Diego, Bob worked for the Interwork Institute at the San Diego State University Research Foundation (SDSURF) until he retired in 2001. During this time, Bob worked with rehabilitation professionals from many States and the Territories of the Pacific including Guam, American Samoa and the Northern Marianas. In 2016 Bob relocated to Bowie, Maryland with his wife Laura.

Bob touched so many people during his 57-year career as a teacher, vocational rehabilitation counselor, trainer and educator. He was a staunch advocate for disability rights and spent much of his career educating and training future and current vocational rehabilitation counselors, supervisors and administrators. After retiring from the SDSURF, he continued to support disability rights and remained active professionally.

Bob’s contributions and impact touched many throughout his life. He never wavered from the importance of his family and loved ones. He left a legacy of making a difference, supporting individuals with diverse experiences, and demonstrating warmth and caring for each person he touched. Bob will be missed – but never forgotten.

Bob is survived by his wife, Laura; his daughter Leesa; his daughter in law Jennifer Cox, his niece Cheri Crane Cox, and cousin James Philips. He is preceded in death by his sisters, Barbara Crane and Betty Vice; and his parents.

Please visit Bob’s memorial page at: www.robertevensfuneralhome.com

Bob’s Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday July 21, 2022 at Watkins Park, Pavilion #7 from 4:30 to 7 pm.