Robert E. Kenworthy, 88, passed away on April 11, 2012 in Chesapeake. Born April 14, 1923 in DesMoines, IA, he was the son of the late Bruce R. and Hasel Elsbury Kenworthy. A World War II veteran, he was one of the first Navy “Frogmen,” which later became known as SEALs. In his later years, he was very proud of the credit and stature that the SEALs had achieved for their work. Several years ago, he became an honorary Green Beret. After graduating from Princeton University, Mr. Kenworthy worked as a civil engineer on projects in Africa, Italy, and the U.S. In addition to his engineering work, he was a consultant and also became a stockbroker.
He loved golf, and even won a tournament in Hawaii while suffering from a broken back. Other interests included opera, (his favorite being “Phantom of the Opera”) and classical music, specifically Beethoven.
He is survived by his beloved Maltese, Tia; his son, Eric Kenworthy of NY; three grandchildren; a sister, Alice Kenworthy Mason, of IA; and a dear friend, Beverly Orr.
A memorial service will be held at Family Choice Funerals & Cremations on June 16th at 11am. Mr. Kenworthy will have a military burial at sea. Please use the links provided to sign the online guest book.
Condolences may be made via the online guestbook.
Thank you, Mr. Kenworthy, for your service to our country.
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You have been family for the past three years. I and Tia listened to your stories as if we heard them for th first time everytime! I knew this day was coming and I thought I would be prepared. i was so wrong! There is nothing to prepare you when a loved on crosses over. I know you are in a better place and you will have the opportunity to reunite with your parents, and your fellow “Frogmen”. Have fun, say hello to my Parents and Ruby for me. Love you Robert. Thank you for all of your support!
I love u Robert miss u so much u have been n my life since I was 24yrs old n know I’m 40 I hope that I can make u proud of me one day I know u are. N heaven smiling down on me n I will c u again may u R.I.p with my heart n soul I love u.My Daddy!
“Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable–if anything is excellent or praiseworthy–think about such things.” Phil 4:8
I’m reminded of this verse because to me, Robert embodied all of these fine qualities. I am so grateful for every minute I was able to spend with him and wish – so much – that there would have been more time. To say he’ll be missed is an understatement. I think the world lost some of it’s light when he left it – what an incredible light he was! I picture him free, unbound by his physical constraints and while I have joy in that for him, selfishly, my heart breaks knowing that I won’t hear his wonderful voice or see the twinkle in his eyesjj again. He truly will be forever missed.
Hi. I’m Emma. I’m 6 years old. I hope you have a fun time in heaven.
I used to be his friend. He gave me a necklace and I wear it all the time. I liked his dog, Tia. I wanted to ask him one day if unicorns were real. Now I can’t, but I’m sure I will know one day. I love you. I’ll miss you.
I came home today to find a letter telling us of Bob’s passing. He was our neighbor while we lived in VA beach and he was unique, giving and funny. He would come to all of our bbqs and talk for hours with us. There wasn’t a time that he didn’t have an entertaining story to share. From what we have heard his life was amazing and very fulfilling. I’m crying as I write this because I have missed Bob since we moved and I’m crying because he is gone. But I should be celebrating for him because I know he has gone on to do something bigger and better because thats who he was.
Thank you Bob for being such a wonderful person and teaching us so much!
with love,
Mike and Billie
I know all of the residents of Bellamy Woods will miss “Mr. Bob.” We will miss seeing him walking the neighborhood and, in the last few years, sitting on his porch waving. He was a true gentleman.
One of the finest men I have had the sincere privilege to know, and what a blessing to be to call him “friend”! Every conversation we had touched me deeply. Bob was one of the greatest men I’ve had the pleasure of knowing.
He was a father to me when my Dad passed, and I hope he knew how much I appreciated his guidance! What an amazing spirit, that is now free; free of pain and discomfort! He will always be with those of us that knew him well. He will now be our spirit guide.
I only wish I was contacted earlier as I knew his final wishes, and I would have been sure all were fulfilled.
Rest in peace Bob; I know I will see you again!