Robert C. Hembree, age 74, a longtime resident of Beavercreek, Ohio passed away June 21st, 2017 at his home surrounded by his family. He was born December 25th, 1942 in Andrews, North Carolina to Ralph C. and Lake Evelyn (Smith) Hembree. Robert was an Industrial Engineer employed with the Chrysler Corporation for more than 38 years retiring in 2001.
Robert was a man of many interests. He enjoyed being both in the water and on the water so scuba diving and boating were equal favorites. Many hours were spent floating down Lake Erie in his sailboat with his First Mate Lillian at his side. While on land Robert was also known to have fun riding motorcycles on occasion.
He didn't refer to himself as an artist but he did have some artistic ability and showed his talent through oil painting outdoor scenes, as well as, sketching some loveable animal characters for his grandkids to enjoy. In addition to painting Robert spent time woodworking and creating some western scrimshaw, which is scratching or carving on ivory or bone.
You could often find Robert outside tending to his gardens, paying extra attention to his favorite roses. But what was most important to Robert was his family. He was a proud and devoted husband, father and grandfather cherishing the times he was able to spend just enjoying each others company and maybe even teaching the youngsters a few life lessons along the way. Robert loved his family and he enjoyed life, and he believed in making it a life worth living ... and that he did. He was given some health challenges along the way but he faced those head-on and won more than lost those battles. His warm smile and hearty laughter will forever be remembered and heard in the memories that will continue to be shared by all who knew him.
In addition to his parents, Robert was preceded in death by his loving grandmother, Hattie Naomi Smith and brother-in-law, John Love. He is survived by the love of his life with who he just celebrated 58 years of marriage with, his wife, Lillian Frances (Love) Hembree, daughters, Tara (Matt) O'Halloran, Robin Hembree Rollins, Christine (Dwayne) Dawn Lea Hembree and Lori Ortega, grandchildren, Marguerita Marie Rollins Brady-LeVander, Brandon (Carmen) O'Halloran, Tiara D. (Joey) Newman, Robert David (Natalie) Rollins, Andrew O'Halloran, James O'Halloran, Austin Rollins, Sammy (Carrie) Ortega, Sarah (Joe) Barrios, Hector Ortega and Christian Oswald, great-grandchildren, Isabelle Maurisa Hain, Avery Elice Rollins, Lilli Ann Newman, Everett Cole LeVander and Skylar Alexandria O'Halloran-Ferraro, brother-in-law, Richard (Wendy) Love and many extended family members and dear friends.
The family is planning a Celebration of Life to honor Robert's.
A special "Thank You" to the Staff and Caregivers of Hospice of Dayton for the kindness and love they showed to Robert and his family. You helped them find strength and peace during this very difficult time.
Those wishing to make a Memorial Contribution are asked to consider Hospice of Dayton.
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