Dr. Robert Karr

DR. ROBERT KARR Iowa City Dr. Robert A. Karr, 91, passed away peacefully at home on Jan. 17, 2015, in Lancaster, Calif. He was born Jan. 11, 1924, in Waterloo, Iowa, to Ruth and Charles Karr. He graduated from Fonda High School at age 16 and enlisted in the U.S. Army Reserve on July 31, 1942. He entered the Aviation Cadet Program of the U.S. Army Air Corps and soon earned his wings, flying P51s over North Africa and Italy during World War II. He became an Ace in 1944, credited with the destruction of six enemy aircraft and damaging two others. Capt. Karr left active duty and went into the Air Force Reserve, receiving his bachelor's degree from the University of Iowa, and then entering the UI College of Dentistry. He completed his DDS degree in 1953 and then returned to active duty in the U.S. Air Force. He served in California, Morocco, Arizona, Misawa, Japan, Edwards AFB and Elmendorf AFB in Alaska until his retirement from the Air Force on Nov. 1, 1976. Robert is survived by his wife, Kathleen Karr of Lancaster, Calif.; daughter, Vicki Markowski (Tony) of Coatesville, Pa.; son, Mike (Melissa) of Iowa City; son, Peter F. of Independence, Mo.; daughter, Teresa Armendariz (Ruven) of Tehachapi, Calif.; nine grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and a sister, Catherine Schoon (Richard) of Peace Dale, R.I. He was predeceased by his first wife, Charlene; son, Robert Karr; a grandson, Nathan Markowski; and a brother, Charles Karr. Robert enjoyed his family, golfing, reading and attending his squadron reunions. He will be remembered for his devotion to family, his sense of humor, his humbleness and his generosity.