Robert Fansler

Robert Wesley Fansler was born on March 27, 1942 in Fancy Gap, Virginia to Arthur Wesley Fansler and Thelma Bertie (Horton) Fansler. Robert passed away on September 15, 2023 in Wildomar, California.  Robert was called “Bobby” by his siblings and “Bob” by his friends.  We affectionately called him, “Dad”. Our dad was a fighter! He survived a quadruple CABG bypass surgery in February 2022, three stents implanted in September 2022 and multiple hospital stays. He never gave up, not even on the morning of his passing.

Robert led an amazing life. He enlisted in the United States Airforce on October 1, 1961, where he served his country serving on the super constellation radar aircraft. Robert was honorably discharged in 1964. He continued his education in political science at the University of South Florida.

Robert was an entrepreneur with expertise in commercial and personal property insurance and risk management. He was a private business owner and never stopped advancing his businesses and career.

Robert often noted that he was always a little different than those around him. He was interested in things most people didn’t care or know about. Fun Fact: He read every book at his local library growing up. His interests and talents were vast and varied. He was always reading and learning new things. One week he was reading about universes in space and the next he was building a house. He never stopped looking for the answers to the most asked questions. This is what made him the smartest man we will ever know. He made many friends along the way;he was the kind of person who drew people in. He never lost his desire to take care of anyone who needed help.

Robert moved his young family from Florida to Arizona in 1971.  It was there that Robert discovered a love for the southwest, having much admiration for its dynamic landscape and rich, vibrant sunsets.

Robert loved his children deeply. California became his final home in his life’s journey, near his daughters, Shana and Lyra,and will be where he is laid to rest.

Robert is survived by his children, David Fansler, Carla Helmstadter, Shana McAfee and Lyra Seitman; sons-in-law, Matt Helmstadter, Mike McAfee and Adam Seitman; stepdaughter, Kara Patrick, stepson, Eric Greene; his brother Richard Fansler; his two sisters, Catherine Brown and JanieHendley; his grandchildren, Ethan, Tage, Chase, Kayla, Kolby, Evan and Carson and numerous nieces and nephews.

Robert selflessly gave up a child for adoption in 1965. While Robert and his first born son, Edward Serrano, were not blessed with the opportunity to reconnect in this lifetime, they will meet again, as heaven is where true reunions happen.

Those we love don’t go away; they sit beside us every day.  Dad, your guiding hand on our shoulders will remain with us forever.