Robert James Wanker

Robert (Bob) James Wanker, a retired air traffic controller, Mason, Veteran and long time resident of Prineville, Oregon died unexpectedly August 6th, 2022 surrounded by his granddaughter and wife.

Bob was born in Weiser, Idaho on September 18th, 1938 to Ruth and Oscar Wanker. He graduated from West Linn High School and later received a bachelors degree in political science from Florida State University. Bob worked as an air traffic controller for 28 years. After retiring he found that he did not like staying home all the time and went to work as a long haul truck driver for 10 years for Interstate Trucking. Bob even brought his semi truck to his granddaughter, Ariana’s kindergarten class for show and tell one time and this brought them both so much joy. He even would let her think she was driving the truck while she sat on his lap at times. On April 19th, 1989, Bob married the love of his life, Darlene. They spent an amazing thirty three years together and loved spoiling their grandchildren and going on vacations together, especially Hawaii.

Fishing, golfing, and being a cutting horse champion and all around cowboy were some of Bob’s favorite things to do. He loved taking his children and grandchildren fishing and enjoyed teaching them to golf as well. Bob’s grandchildren and great granddaughter always brought him so much joy. Bob was very active with the Masons, Eastern Star, York Rite, Knight’s Templar and Cryptic Masons and he will be very missed by the members there. He never showed any fear and always took problems head on with determination to get things done. His family and loved ones will always remember the amazing stories he would share from all of his life adventures. Bob will be loved and missed very much by many people.

Bob is survived by his wife, Darlene Wanker; his granddaughter, Ariana Orosco; his children, James, Jeanette, Sydney and twins, Paul and Andy Wanker; his great granddaughter Amiyah Johnson; his stepdaughters Sue Orosco and Tracy McWilliams; his precious dogs, Scarlett and Gracie; his brother Richard Wanker and multiple other grandchildren and family members. He is proceeded in death by his parents Ruth and Oscar.

A funeral service is scheduled for August 27th, 2022 at Prineville Elks Lodge at 11am with a lunch reception to follow. The Masonic Lodge and Band Of Brothers will also be honoring him at that time as well. Pastor Dan Parks will officiate.

Bob asked that all donations anyone would like to make be sent to Shriners Hospital. Any condolences to the family can be delivered to 1640 SE Lynn Blvd., Prineville, OR 97754.

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