Robert Anthony Conn

Chief/Captain Robert Anthony Conn born October 19, 1942 in Gulfport, MS went to be with his Lord and Savior on February 23, 2021; much too soon for his loved ones but not soon enough for his beloved Dora, who preceded him.

At the age of 17, Robert enlisted in the US Navy where he served 20 years until his retirement with the Rank of Boats Mate Chief. His service included 3 tours of duty in Vietnam as part of the US Navy Task Force 116, River Division 515 (River Boat Patrol) where he received many commendations including a Navy Commendation Medal with Combat Distinguishing Service and a Gold Star in lieu of Second Navy Commendation Medal. After retirement he went on to serve 20 years as a Corrections Officer for the State of New Mexico with the Rank of Captain. He also served in Santa Fe New Mexico Veteran Honor Guard and was a Deacon at Santa Fe Baptist Church.

Robert was a quiet man of few words but filled with great love that he expressed in his own way through his strong sense of duty. He was a man who believed strongly in his service and duty to others, his country, his friends, family and loved ones. He demonstrated this dedication to service every day in everything that he did. From his days as a Boy Scout, Naval Chief, Corrections Captain, Church Deacon and Honor Guard Member; Robert Conn found no greater calling than that of service to others. While Robert focused on service he was so much more to his loved ones; he was a son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, papa and friend like no other; you could always count on him to be there whenever he was called upon. He never spoke of the things that he did or the accolades that he was awarded, they were just part of his duty in life. A lifelong lover of movies, both types; spaghetti westerns and epic war movies, he could always be found in any free moment indulging in a movie and God help the child who changed the channel from football game while he napped. His greatest joy was that of being husband to Dora whom he shared a love that is incomparable to any other. They were one from the moment they met. Robert will be missed beyond measure by his daughter Jennifer who could never tell him enough how much she loved him, how honored she was that he chose to be her dad and for being the most steadfast thing in her entire life; she wasn’t ready to have him set sail but when the Lord calls, you show up for duty. For now, we wish Chief Conn “Fair Winds and Following Seas”, as he begins his next journey.

He is survived by his sister; Edith Evans (Bill), daughter; Jennifer Catechis (Chris), Elizabeth Jaramillo (in spirit), son; Mark Gurule, grandchildren; Mia, Michael, Velinda, Christina, Jason, Robert, Rochelle, Marcos, Marvin, Alexandria, Marlisa and Ziadora.

                                                                    Memorial Contributions:

In Lieu of Flowers the family asks that you make donations to First Baptist Church of Santa Fe Missions Fund. Robert was a 40+ year proud member of the church.

Memorial service will be held on Friday, March 12, 2021 at 12:30 p.m. at First Baptist Church located at 1605 Old Pecos Trail, Santa Fe, NM 87505. COVID recommended safe practices such as 6ft social distancing, mask wearing and capacity limitations will be observed.

A private family interment at the Santa Fe National Cemetery will follow immediately following the memorial service, so that Robert may finally be laid to rest with his beloved Dora.