Robert, also known by the trail name Epic, passed away in Harper’s Ferry West Virginia on June 3rd, 2024 at the age of 64. He was born November 13th, 1959 in Lancaster, California. He was described as a boy with a large imagination who dreamed of space exploration and always made sure to protect his little brother. He joined the Wichita Police Force and the United States Air Force National Guard at the age of 18 where he earned his Bachelor in Criminal Justice at Wichita State University.  Upon completion, he attended the University of Colorado Boulder School of Law where he received his Juris Doctor. He was commissioned as a Judge Advocate in the United States Air Force where he served numerous tours including Panama, Qatar, and Iraq. While transitioning to the Reserves, he was elected as the 13th Judicial District Attorney in the state of Colorado covering seven counties. After he retired from the Air Force and law, he served 12 years as the Director of Foreign Investments for the Department of Defense at the Pentagon. In total, he served a combined 26 years in the United States Air Force and 20 years in the federal government

Above all his professional accomplishments, he was most proud of being a father to his two daughters, Kelsey and Katie. He loved to spoil his partner and children by cooking delicious breakfast spreads, collard greens, and BBQ. His passion was outdoor exploring, and his recent achievement included hiking over 1026 miles on the Appalachian Trail where he earned a spot on the local hikers Hall of Fame. We are blessed to know his last moments on earth were of pride and happiness.

Robert was preceded in death by his father, Bobby; his mother, Thelma; his brother, Bill; his sister, Susan; and his nephew David Jr. He is survived by his eldest child, Kelsey Turner, her husband Paul; his youngest child Katelyn Osterbauer, her husband Karl; his partner-in-crime, Robin Blair; his brother, David Watson; his grandson, Ezra Turner; his grand dogs Toby and Murphy, and several friends, honorary family members, and hiking buddies

.

He was planning to hike the Appalachian Trail until his body couldn’t continue or if Robin made him come home. We like to believe his soul is still on that trail completing his mission because he is too stubborn to give up that easily. We are all so proud of him.

Viewing is scheduled from 10 am-12 pm on 28 June 2024 at The Springs Funeral Home.

3115 East Platte Avenue

Colorado Springs, CO 80909

Services will be held at the Pikes Peak National Cemetery on 28 June 2024 @ 13:00 (1 pm).

10545 Drennan Road

Colorado Springs, CO 80925

Light refreshments and snacks to follow at 2pm

Restoration Church

9355 Peaceful Valley Rd

Colorado Springs, CO 80925

In lieu of flowers, all donations can be made to the Appalachian Trail Conservancy

 https://appalachiantrail.org/get-involved/contribute/