Passing of a Warrant Officer Radio Supervisor
I regret to advise that Warrant Officer Robert (Bob) Merrill Ohlson crossed the bar this morning, February 23, 2024. Bob was one out of the box. A celebration of Bob’s life and funeral service will be held at 11am, Tuesday 27 February 2024 at Harbour City Funeral Home, 300 Kapiti Road, Kapiti Road Chapel, Paraparaumu
Posted by Neal Catley – I am deeply saddened to learn that Bob crossed the bar today. No question, Bob was a man of the highest integrity and intellect, and it is of no surprise he was one of the finest Radio Communication Warrant Officers to have served in the Royal New Zealand Navy. On Bob’s RNZN retirement, he joined the GCSB, and of no surprise, he quickly rose to the top of his specialisation. Bob was a dedicated family man who adored his wife, Yvonne, and two daughters, Marcia and Renee. Throughout Bob’s life, he was always the STAR of the show. The saying, ‘The CREAM ALWAYS COMES TO THE TOP,’ is a fitting tribute to Bob’s life. The welcoming party on the other side is busy preparing for Bob’s arrival. I understand that a ‘Special RNZN Radio, Signal and Communicators Rock Band’ wishes to acknowledge Bob’s worldly status and will be playing and singing: “You’re simply the Best – better than all the Rest.” Amen to that! Rest in Peace, my dear friend.
Well spoken Neal….. I never served with Bob, not even the comms training school, however I did know he was well respected by all those that came in touch/served with him. HMNZS Taranaki comes to the “surface” by those that served with him. I recall, along with PORS Rick Bryce and Herr Gunther being invited to his wedding to Yvonne in Te Awamutu. I unexpectantly got the job of “baby sitting” Rick, outside the church during the service…… another story to be told!
I totally endorse Neal’s comments above. I served with Bob off and on over many years and always regarded him as an icon within the trade and one to emulate.
Stand easy my friend …..
I agree with all the comments said in reference to Bob, a true friend and gentleman, who I was lucky enough to serve with on several occasions. Wishing Yvonne all the very best. Fondest memories.
It is great regret to hear that Bob has passed away. We spent many hours together having a few bevvies and playing footie together at Irirangi. After he left the Andrew and became a gscb member we still kept in touch. My condolences to Yvonne, Marcie and Renee. Remember the good times because that is what we take with us.
Poroporo kia tutaki ano tatau
Gary Johnston
From Wiremu (Bill) Bartlett – I was quite shocked to note the passing of two of my very best buddies, both Sparkers, Charlie (Boogie) Brown and Bob “foxy” Ohlsen. I’m hoping to get over to Gizzie for Charle’s send off. May they both rest in peace, Regards Wiremu (Bill) Bartlett
Deepest condolences to Yvonne, Marcie & Renee. Bob was a great individual who was very much respected my those who had the pleasure to serve, work and socialise with him.
RIP Bob
It is a sad day when someone you have known for the best part of 60 years departs this mortal coil. It has hit me real hard, even though’ we all knew that there wasn’t much time left for Ohles. We have many many moments from the past and the not so distant past of our times together, most of them a laugh a minute, from being his golf caddie to dining at the Eagles Nest (Hilton Hongkong), from being told he was just a teleprinter op’ at GCSB to finding out in a book that he was a lot more than just a teleprinter op’. times together on taranaki (expo 70 trip) to life in waiouru and the many home cooked meals at our place..his wedding and the goings on behind the scenes (bollocks references it) and the subsequent visits over the years once we all retired..reunions etc.. i will miss him like hell…Gunth
Hey Fish you #@$&*++! Its great to see you’re still around mate. Havnt seen nlr herd of you since our old Buff days. Hav’nt been to Buffs for few years now since my beloved ved passed. Cheers. Bill B