Obituary of Robert J. DeKleine

Robert J. DeKleine of Hopatcong passed away Wednesday July 11, 2012 at St. Clare's Hospital, Dover. He was 74. Born in Brooklyn NY, he lived in Linden before moving to Hopatcong 51 years ago. Robert was a federal employee for 41 years. He worked for Hercules Powder, developing ammunition, 1964 began his career at Picatinny Arsenal. His achievements are numerous. In 1990 Bob moved to the Paladin Program Management Office where he was the Chief of International Programs and Production. Bob worked in PM Paladin until 1996 when he became first, Deputy Program Manager for lightweight 155mm Howitzer, a joint USMC/Army program. During his time at Picatinny Arsenal and after his retirement, Bob was instrumental in working with our Allies to develop and maintain the agreement of the JBWG. His hard work and dedication left him with the respect and admiration of his colleagues all over the world. He joined the Air National Guard when he was 17 years old and after 10 years was honorably discharged. Robert graduated St. John's University with a degree in chemical engineering and Seton Hall University with a MBA. Robert was a coin collector who enjoyed traveling the world, computers, watching movies, music and reading books. A charitable, honest man, he coached Hopatcong Little League for a number of years, was an usher at St. Jude's RC Church in Hopatcong, an officer with the Hopatcong Seniors, a member of the National GOP, a member of the NRA and a member of the Order of St. Barbara. Beloved husband of 51 years to Elizabeth Victoria (nee: Sulinski). Beloved father of Laura Anne DeKleine -Davis, Robert John, Daniel Kenneth and Peter John DeKleine. Loving grandfather of Robert James, Ashley Ryan, Caitlin Marie, Daniel Robert, Sara Elizabeth and Charley Anne DeKleine and Connor Robert and Jason Allen Davis. Dear great grandfather of Robert Jake DeKleine.