Robert Leroy Blango age 85, of New Port Richey, Florida passed away on November 22, 2023. He was born on September 3, 1938, in LaBelle, Florida to parents Frank Hiram Coppedge and Erma Blango.
On July 2, 1990, he married Kim Chua Blango in Punta Gorda, FL. Together, they shared 33 years of marriage.
Robert was a member of the VFW, American Legion, and Vietnam Veterans of America. He also beat the boxing champion, Ken Norton, in a fight and coached the boxing champion, Evander Holyfield. He won silver and gold medals as a boxing coach in the Olympics for Korea.
He enjoyed learning about new technology and being a member of the 173rd Airborne Infantry unit. Robert loved watching sports and Western movies, solving puzzles, reading, singing, dancing, and playing with his grandchildren.
His favorite thing to do was be a father to his children. Everyone knew he had arrived when he would say loudly “Hey, Hey, Hey” (Fat Albert show). His presence of height and muscularity made him look very intimidating but he was very caring and went the extra mile to help others.
Survivors include his beloved wife of 33 years, Kim Chua Blango; daughters Tracey Dorsey, Tausha Dorsey, Loraine Dorsey, and Cynthia Romine; sons, Robert Blango Jr., Edgar Blango, Major Blango; and many grandchildren. Robert is preceded in death by daughter Reva Delynda Dorsey and grandson, Bryan Keith Gill, Jr.
Thanks to the family and friends who have taken their time to pay respects and thanks to Veterans Funeral Care, VFW, American Legion, Vietnam Veterans of America, and the Army.
Funeral services will be held on Thursday, November 30th, 2023 with a visitation at 10:00 AM, service will begin 11:00 AM.
Military honors will be rendered at his committal service following the funeral at 2:00 PM at Florida National Cemetery- 6502 SW 102nd Ave, Bushnell, FL 33513.
