Robert D. Kyelberg, Sr.

Robert D. Kyelberg, Sr., a dedicated husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully at home on June 19, 2025, at the age of 88. Born on December 10, 1936, in Littleton CO, as son of the late Leonard Theodore and Mildred May Kyelberg. Robert lived a life exemplified by hard work, commitment to family, and community service.

Robert's professional career spanned several decades, showcasing his strong work ethic and versatility. He began his journey at Coca-Cola, dedicating 17 years to the company before moving on to Bobs Fountain Services for a decade. He ultimately found a lasting home at the Wilmington News Journal, where he contributed for over 30 years, embodying the spirit of reliability and service that defined his professional life.

A veteran of the United States Navy, Robert served as a Gunners Mate for 3.5 years, an experience that shaped his character and instilled in him a deep sense of patriotism. He earned his GED during his time in the Navy, which marked the beginning of his lifelong commitment to personal growth and education.

Robert was a loving husband to Christine Jackson Kyelberg, with whom he shared 53 years of marriage, having tied the knot on August 27, 1971. His love extended beyond the present, as he cherished the memory of his former wife, Julie, who sadly passed in 1970 from leukemia. Robert was a devoted father to his children, attending their school sports and events, offering unwavering support, and fostering a strong bond through shared experiences. He is survived by his daughters, Kathy Milbourne of South Carolina and Wendy Dzedzy, married to Greg Dzedy of Delaware, as well as his daughter, Hope Kyelberg, who is married to Naomi Heckler of Delaware, and son Robert Kyelberg Jr., who is married to Cynthia Kyelberg, also from Delaware. Additionally, he is survived by his son, Leonard (Teddy) Kyelberg from Florida, and daughter Angela Kyelberg, who is married to Mandy Mason of Pennsylvania.

In his later years, Robert found immense joy in fishing at Bellevue State Park with his grandsons and remained an avid sports fan, particularly devoted to the Phillies and Eagles. His interests extended into community service; he volunteered as a bus driver for Halawas Camp in New Jersey, supported the youth of Bridge Boys at Marcus Hook Baptist Church, worked in the radio room, and drove a school bus for West Chester Christian School.

Robert leaves behind a legacy enriched by love, admiration from his children and grandchildren, and a commitment to hard work that stretched into his early eighties when he reluctantly retired. He is also survived by his sister Nancy Perry, and her husband Ronald Perry, of Arkansas, along with several nieces and nephews.

Robert is preceded in death by his former wife, Julie, as well as his siblings: sister Jean Rawlins, brother Ted Kyelberg, sister Phyllis Mulligan, brother Tommy Kyelberg, and brother Dale Kyelberg.

A graveside service with military honors will be held at Gracelawn Memorial Park in New Castle, Delaware, on June 25, 2025, beginning at 11:00 AM. Cremation Arrangements are under the care of James E. Humphrey Funeral Home, Pottsville.