Final Salute

Robert Frederick Rehkopf Sr. is survived by his wife Leslie, his children Rob (son) and Eva Rehkopf, Ryan (son) and Karen Rehkopf, Sarah (daughter) and Scott Schoefernacker, and Anna (daughter) Rehkopf. Grandchildren Chloe, Max and Alex Rehkopf, Miller and Emma Rehkopf, Dexter, June and Louella Schoefernacker.

Orphaned at 15, Robert pushed onward and became a truly self-made man. He joined the Marines, then transferred to the Navy and became a Seabee. He retired as a Captain, with 36 years of military service. Robert was a highly regarded professional civil engineer everywhere he went. His final project will be a tribute to his determination and perseverance, as he successfully acquired a recent grant for the design and construction of a new building for the Memphis Fire Department that will serve the downtown area for generations. For fun, he planned long, cross-country, motorcycle trips for himself and others. He proudly joined the Iron Butt community and logged over 200,000 miles, often traveling 1000 miles-per-day. He was happiest on a Harley but also enjoyed the smooth ride of his BMW bikes. Wielding tongs, he was well-known for grilling out and producing exceptionally tasty wings. Elated to be outside on a hot day, with family around, Robert was often the life of the party, making “short stories” long; and adding many quips like pick-a-number and sprawled out like Browns cows. Robert rarely let a problem stick around long, letting it roll off him like water off a duck’s back. Even in his years battling cancer, he was strong, determined, and motivated. Resilient to the end. He will be greatly missed. Life will certainly be quieter without him.

A gathering of family and friends for Robert will be held Tuesday, March 4, 2025 from 9:30 AM to 10:30 AM at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, 8151 Chimneyrock Blvd., Memphis, TN 38016. A mass of christian burial will occur Tuesday, March 4, 2025 from 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM, 8151 Chimneyrock Blvd., Memphis, TN 38016. A committal service will occur Tuesday, March 4, 2025 from 2:30 PM to 2:50 PM at West Tennessee State Veterans Cemetery, 4000 Forest Hill Irene Rd, Memphis, TN 38125.