Robert "Papa" Baehne, 94, of Fernandina Beach, Florida, passed away peacefully on February 9, 2025.

Born on September 3, 1930, in Rockford, Iowa, Bob lived a long and full life, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter and an unmatched ability to build, fix, or craft just about anything with his skilled hands. He is survived by his devoted wife of 72 years, Frances Baehne; his children, Ronald Baehne (Susan) of Jacksonville, Florida and Karen English (Jack) of Fernandina Beach, Florida; his three grandchildren, Ashley Eddelman (David), Emory Baehne (Ronni) and Tara Steinberg (Brent); and his five great-grandchildren, Owen and Nolan Eddelman, Charlotte Baehne and Emelia and Jack Steinberg. Bob also cherished his siblings, Irene Arndt, Roger Baehne, James Baehne and Jerry Baehne. He is reunited in heaven with his siblings, Ruth Buffington, Earl Baehne and Dale Baehne, as well as his parents, Frederick Carl and Elizabeth Ameila Baehne.

Bob was a man of many talents and passions. A true craftsman, he was a highly skilled carpenter whose work stood the test of time. An avid outdoorsman, he loved fishing, hunting, golf and bowling.
Bob had a mischievous, boyish charm that never faded with age. He was humorous in the best way, always ready with a playful prank, a twinkle in his eye and a joke that sometimes made you groan, but always made you smile. In later years, he fully embraced his status as "The Silver Fox,” a title he wore with humor and charm.

He took great pride in his work, including his contributions to the launch pad at Cape Canaveral, which remains standing strong to this day. Bob honorably served his country in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War and later owned Baehne Tires and Brakes in Jacksonville, where he provided honest service and friendly conversation. He was also a member of Memorial Methodist Church in Fernandina Beach, Florida. Bob will be cremated, and his urn will be placed with family at McLane Riverview Memorial Gardens in Valdosta, Georgia, at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations can made to Community Hospice or Memorial Methodist Church of Fernandina Beach, honoring Bob’s generous spirit.

Though he has left this world, his humor, kindness and unwavering love for his family will live on—along with the countless stories (some true, some slightly exaggerated) that will be shared in his honor.