Robert Wadsworth-USAF-Retired-Lt Col funeral services are 10:30 AM, Monday, July 10, 2023, at the Florida National Cemetery, 6502 S.W. 102nd Avenue, Bushnell, FL 33513. Military honors will be provided by the USAF Honors and Ceremonial Team. The burial will be at Florida National Cemetery, Bushnell, Florida. Lt Col Wadsworth served in the United States Air Force for over 25 years and retired on August 30, 1970, from MacDill AFB, Tampa, Florida. Bob served as a pilot in both the Korean and Vietnam wars, served as a missile launch officer in Idaho, air-sea rescue pilot in Europe and C-130 pilot in Central and South America.
Bob passed away on July 4, 2023, following a brief hospitalization. He was born on March 10, 1926, in Tampa, Florida to John and Edith Wadsworth. On February 16, 1951, he married Roberta Lou May, they were married 67 years. Bob is survived by his loving family: sister Evelyn Forbes, sons Joel and his wife Sandra, Bob and Brian, grandsons Jordan and Cole and great-grandson Aidan. He is preceded in death by his wife Roberta, his parents, and brothers; Jake, Walter, Frank and James, and sister Ruth.
Bob first worked as an airline attendant enlisting and serving 25 years in the United States Air Force. He was stationed and lived with his family all over the world including Florida, Oklahoma, California, Scotland, Germany, Idaho, Ohio, and Panama. For the last 50 years, his home has been in Tampa, Florida. He enjoyed an interest in family, golf, recreational piloting, and hiking. Bob was a member of the Temple Terrace Country Club and the Florida Trails Association.
The family gives thanks for the long life and love received from Bob.
The Dash Poem
by Linda Ellis
I read of a man who stood to speak at the funeral of a friend.
He referred to the dates on the tombstone from the beginning to the end.
He noted first came the date of the birth and spoke the following date with tears.
But he said what mattered most of all was the dash between the years.
For that dash represents all the time that they spent life on Earth.
And now only those who loved them know what that little line is worth.
For it matters not how much we own, the cars, the house, the cash.
What matters is how we live and love, and how we spend our dash.
So, think about this long and hard. Are there things you’d like to change?
For you never know how much time is left that can still be rearranged.
If we could just slow down enough to consider what’s true and real,
and always try to understand the way other people feel.
Be less quick to anger and show appreciation more,
and love the people in our lives like we’ve never loved before.
If we treat each other with respect and more often wear a smile,
remembering that this special dash might only last a little while.
So, when your eulogy is being read with your life’s actions to rehash,
would you be proud of the things they say about how you spent your dash?
Our deepest sympathy for your loss. Our family will keep your family in our thoughts and prayers. Your Dad was an amazing person, and his service to our Country will never be forgotten. The Valero Family
Our heartfelt condolences go out to the Wadsworth family upon the passing of an extraordinary man who deeply loved you and his country. In talking with him, your Dad / Grandad’s humor and kindness always showed first, but his depth, courage, and honor were clearly at his inner core.
It was our privilege to have known such a rare breed of man. We wish you peace and comfort as you hold onto so many special memories that were gifted to you.
Bob & Corinne Willits
I have fond memories of visiting Unkle “Spud” and Aunt Roberta for Easter Egg hunts! May you find comfort in your time of sorrow.
Love Cousin Kathy.
Uncle Spud was a wonderful man who I always loved to see when visiting with Nanny. He was a family hero who sacrificed so much for our country. He will be loved and missed!