Cmdr. Jack Robke

Cmdr. Jack "Jake" Robcke August 24, 1921 - March 30, 2010 Resident of Walnut Creek Member of the "Greatest Generation" Beloved husband for 54 years to of Jeanne Robcke deceased, Step-father to Paul Stewart, and brother Clifford Robcke also deceased. Dear uncle to Linda Robcke Giguere, Vicki Robcke Hennessy, Kathleen Kellogg, Ellen Kellogg, Greg Moore, Paul Moore and Marcia Moore Blair, and many grand and great-grand nieces and nephews. Born and raised in San Francisco, Jack was a graduate of Mission High School in 1940. He joined the Navy to pursue his dream of being an aviator. He realized his ambition serving in World War II as a Naval aviator, member of the Sundowners, assigned to many carriers including the USS Hornet. One of the original members of the Blue Angels he also served in the Korean conflict and then as a Professor of Naval Sciences at UC Berkeley in the early 50's. Jack rose to the rank of Commander and retired in 1970 after a distinguished career. He was awarded many medals and citations including the Distinguished Flying Cross. Thereafter Jack and Jeanne relocated to Walnut Creek where Jack pursued a career in real estate while Jeanne devoted much of her time volunteering at the Discovery Cancer shop. The highlight every year was a trip to Pensacola and the annual Blue Angels weekend in San Francisco. Jack was a member of many organizations including the Tailhook Association, Marine's Memorial, and the USS Hornet Museum. Jack passed away peacefully at home after a long illness tended by his caregivers, Sherrie Drecksel, Betty Flaherty and Patricia Biria. A memorial service is planned for family and friends on Friday, May 7, 2010 11a.m. at Oak Park Hills Chapel, 3111 N. Main St., Walnut Creek.