Robert John Colombe

Bob passed peacefully on October 25th, 2023 surrounded by family. He is survived by his wife Monica Colombe, daughter Elena, and sons Ruben, Robert, Steven, and Michael. Bob is also survived by his many grandchildren and great-grandchildren, as well as sister Janet Hansmann and brothers Dean and Dennis Colombe.

‘Uncle’ Bob was born in Little Falls, MN on March 26th, 1946 to Stephen Henry Colombe and Millicent Reese. He proudly served in the Korean War in the Military Police unit training K-9’s, and would fondly recount tales of one special dog, Corky. Upon ending his active duty service, he entered the USAF Honor Guard for an additional four years. He served 40 years in the police force combined for various precincts including Prince George County in Maryland, Spring Lake Park in Minnesota, and Tempe P.D. in Arizona. 

When not working, Bob could be found golfing, riding his Harley, or going on road trips to visit friends and family around the country. He also loved classic cars and frequently attended car shows around the valley. One of his many joys and accomplishments was curating a thorough family tree, in which the Colombe name has been traced back to France in the early 1400’s. 

After his retirement from law enforcement in 2003, Bob stayed active driving school busses, teaching drivers ed classes, and teaching criminal justice courses at a private college. Many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends were taught to drive by Bob over the years. He enjoyed celebrating the accomplishments and life events of his grandchildren, and can certainly be described as one of the proudest grandpas there ever was. Bob was also an active member of the Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #11, and served as Secretary from 1990-2003 and then later President from 2015-2020. 

Bob was a ‘go to’ guy for many of his friends and neighbors throughout the years. If he could help someone out whether it was with handy work or a place to stay he would be there with no hesitation. Many people came to know they could depend and rely on Uncle Bob. 

Arizona Memorial Services will be held at Whitney & Murphy Bueler Mortuary 14 West Hulet Drive, Chandler, AZ 85225 on   Sunday November 19th, at 3pm. Services in Little Falls, MN to follow this Spring 2024.