VIRGINIA BEACH, VA – Robert Lee Grater (Bob), 87, went home to be with the Lord on August 18, 2023. He was born in Beloit, Kansas to the late Robert Hahn Grater and Lola Mae Altimus. Bob grew up working on the farms in Kansas and after High School graduation at the age of 18, he enlisted in the United States Navy. Bob was proud to honorably serve his country for 30 years before retiring. He spent the majority of his Naval career stationed in various squadrons at Oceana Naval Air Station where as Master Chief he ran maintenance control operations for jet aircraft, primarily the F14 Tomcat. He spent many tours of deployment on aircraft carriers including during Vietnam. After his Navy retirement, he spent another 20 years as a civilian working with Navy ships. Bob was a longtime member of Trinity Church, Oceanfront where he served as an usher for many years.
Bob is survived by his beloved wife of 57 years, Roberta; daughter Patricia (Trish) and her husband, Bob; grandson Daniel; brother Earl Richard Grater; nieces Melody, Cindy, and Cheryl as well as many extended family members and dear friends.
Bob loved to spend time with his family. He enjoyed cookouts, the beach, and traveling the world. He loved visiting his wife’ s home country of Scotland, traveling with his brother back to Kansas, and going on cruises with Roberta. It brought Bob great joy to be able to watch his grandson Daniel grow up, taking him to pre-school, as well as attending his sporting events and music performances.
A Celebration of Life service with military honors will be held on Saturday September 2 at 2:00pm at Trinity Church, 401 35th St, Virginia Beach, VA 23451. There will be a reception following the service in the church social hall. Bob’ s inurnment will be in Arlington National Cemetery.
Please visit www.hdoliver.com to share a fond memory or leave a condolence for the family. In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations to the Disabled American Veterans or Wounded Warrior.
Robert Lee Grater (Bob)
