More detail on this person: FOCHT, Robert Michael "Bob" 68, of Land O'Lakes, passed away
Monday, May 13, 2013. Bob graduated from South Dade High School and the University of South
Florida. He entered the Marine Corps in 1966, was commissioned as a second Lieutenant, attended
flight school in Pensacola and received his wings as a Naval Aviator in 1968. Bob served in Vietnam
from 1968 to 1969 as a CH-46 helicopter pilot; left active duty in 1971 and was ultimately promoted
to Captain. He graduated from Stetson University College of Law in 1973 and began his practice with
the 6th Judicial Circuit Public Defender's Office and, thereafter, engaged in the private practice
of law for 22 years. In 1997, he returned to the Public Defender's office for the ten most
professional and personally satisfying years of his legal career. Bob retired from the active
practice of law in 2007. In retirement, he enjoyed his status as an amateur carpenter and handyman.
He also undertook long distance backpacking which included 100 miles on the Appalachian Trail. His
15 year battle with cancer included his time with the Public Defender's Office and his hikes on the
Appalachian Trial. He is preceded in death by his father, Robert H. Focht; mother, Gloria M. Focht;
and his brother, Thomas J. Focht. He is survived by his wife of 47 years, Sally; two sons, Robert J.
Focht and Thomas A. Focht; two daughters, Emily Olivieri and Allison Focht; two granddaughters,
Rosalina and Eva Olivieri; sister, Deborah Williams; and several nieces & nephews. A memorial
service will be held at 11 am, on Saturday, May 18th, at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, 20735 Leonard
Road, Lutz. Bob's final resting place will be at the Florida National Cemetery and will be held with
military honors. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in his honor to HPH Hospice
Foundation. Words of comfort may be expressed at Loylessfuneralhome.com. Loyless Funeral Home
(813)996-6610
Published in the Tampa Bay Times on May 15, 2013
This information was last updated 05/18/2016
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