Robert Lee Heer

Robert Lee Heer June 24,1933

Robert Lee Heer,“Bob”, of Corona, California died peacefully at home surrounded by family on October 16, 2023.

Robert was born in Upland, California to Emerson Heer, and Glendell Heer (Hale). His early childhood was happily spent discovering nature’s wonders in the orange groves of San Antonio Heights, Upland, California. Robert and his brother, Hubert Heer (predeceased, 2009) and their parents lived in a small, country house his father earned as Caretaker of citrus groves on the property.

WWII began to effect his young life when at 7 years old frequent blackouts and alarms would occur throughout Southern California. He recalled the abrupt departure of a childhood Asian American friend, later learned his friend’s family were forced to relocate as a direct result of the war. As their country recovered from the Great Depression now faced war, Robert’s family struggled on multiple fronts.

Robert’s parents divorced when he was 11 uprooting his family, prompting frequent moves. Lessons of survival often took precedent over classroom lessons. After his father left, his mother found a job and a single room in a boarding house, which didn’t allow children. As a result Robert and his brother were given shelter living in the tower at the newly built Cable Airport for more than a year. Robert commuted on the back of a scooter with his brother to their mother’s residence for daily meals, and to school. Amidst the turmoil of his home-life on the ground, Robert spent a lot of time in the skies above flying with experienced pilots many of whom flew in the war. One of his earliest instructors was a veteran “WASP” (Women Air Force Service Pilot). Robert “soloed” as a pre-teen. Aviation filled his childhood dreams as he indulged in a short plane ride at an airshow, watched planes from tree tops, and saw the expansion of a nearby airport, that would later become his home. During this traumatic phase of life, flying became his saving grace.

Robert attended Upland Elementary, Upland Jr High, and Chaffey High School. He later attended Mt. San Antonio and Fullerton Colleges.

While still in high school, at age 17, Robert enlisted in the US Army, Infantry, specializing in technical communications capacities. As a Corporal, he served overseas on active duty near Kimpo AFB, Southern Korea. He was honorably discharged at 20 years old as a Sergeant. After 3 years in the army, his experiences permanently impacted his life. He enjoyed sharing both the good and bad lessons and experiences in the military with family and friends.

Robert married JoAnn October 11, 1954 after his military service. They lived in Orange County in various apartments, and fulfilled a common goal in 1958 buying a home and settling in Fullerton, CA, where Bob and JoAnn raised their 3 daughters. Bob was a loving father, coach, outdoor enthusiast, instructor, and supportive husband. He found family time and coached softball for many seasons. Win or lose, at seasons end, he offered each player on the team a plane ride including a brief lesson and log book. He joyfully shared his passion for flying to empower others. He recognized and identified especially with those living in tumultuous circumstances and always bet on the “underdogs”. In retirement, he volunteered as a mentor to boys at risk through the Corona Police Department. Robert’s devotion to his wife, compassion for those in need, and integrity through his word, respect, and actions was part of who he was.

Robert’s work experiences reflected his versatile and self-taught talents including sales, injection molding, drafting design, and flight instruction. His love of flying was apparent from a young age. It motivated him to work part-time and weekends to study and earn the certifications needed to fly various aircraft. While doing so, he also supported his family while JoAnn cared for young kids, returned to college, and launched her teaching career. Robert always allowed time to enjoy the outdoors, visiting national parks, and sharing his appreciation for nature with his family and friends.

Robert and JoAnn moved to Corona in 1988. Soon after, a hangar at Corona Airport became his second home. He enjoyed the camaraderie with other pilots and students along with instructing at Coyote Vintage Aviation. He logged 10,000 hours of flight time, enjoyed restoring 3 different aircraft including his Cessna 172, and became dear friends with many former students.

Robert was smart, hardworking, engaging, and unpretentious. He accepted everyone as they were. He was loved by his devoted wife, his children, grandchildren, extended family, and friends who will miss him dearly. He enjoyed his 90th birthday at a celebration staged by all of his grandkids and spouses. Memories captured the joy of the moment and reflect the fulfillment of Robert’s life legacy. Those who knew him, may draw comfort knowing he has flown home.

Robert is survived by JoAnn Heer (Aas), his wife with whom he recently celebrated 69 years as married partners. Together they had raised three daughters Cheryl Putnam (Heer), Cindy Lee Bohl (Heer), and Carla Jo Max (Heer). They helped raise two granddaughters Vanessa Putnam, and Veronica Putnam, and enjoyed their role as grandparents to all 6 surviving grandchildren. They are Morgan George (Bohl), Connor Bohl, Logan Max, Lauren Max (Shariff), Vanessa Putnam (Latimer), and Veronica Putnam. Sons-in-law, the late Dan Bohl, surviving son-in-law Dana Max, grandsons-in-law Kristov George, Zander Latimer, and Michael Shariff, including his sister-in-law Margaret Heer, and many nieces and nephews, will always remain part of his beloved family.

A private burial will be held at a later date, and his memorial will be located at Riverside National Cemetery, 22495 Van Buren Boulevard, Riverside, CA 92518.