Robert Bruce Boardman

Robert Bruce Boardman (Dr. Bob)

Dad left us mid-day, January 29th, 2026 at his residence, Assured Senior Center, in Littleton Colorado.  Dr Bob had been battling dementia for many years, but still able to continue a daily quality of life.  Lately, his health had been declining, but was strong, positive and still had his sense of humor until he decided to let go.

Robert (Bob) was born March 13th, 1935, one of 3 boys, Larry, (older) and Delwin (younger) in Crookston, Minnesota.  His parents, Dalmon Boardman and Kathleen O. Heiser spent many years in Minesota.  Lived in Colorado before moving to Arizona.

He met his future wife, Shirley Zellmer, when they were both attended Macalester College, in Minnesota, during the late 50s.  They fell in love, married and during their honeymoon to Colorado, decided to move from the Midwest to Denver where they began a family, finally settling for the long haul at their home in Englewood.  Dalmon, Robert’s father, was a medical Doctor mostly general practice with an emphasis on hypnosis (yeah – early days). It was through this medical exposure that Robert pursued a career in the Pharmacy profession.  Graduating from University of Colorado in 1959 with a P.D. in Pharmacy; thus began his unofficial name as Dr. Bob.  It was during this time, he did a stint with the Navy Reserves – always looking to help his country, family and friends.

Robert and Shirley are survived by 3 children, Michael (Sandy), Oregon;  David (Susie) Tennessee;  Karen (Don) Oregon;  and many grandchildren and great grandchildren.  Sadly, Shirley passed away in July, 2025.

Dad worked for several local pharmacies in Englewood and the Littleton area.   In the late 70s he took a courier move to ER Squibb (now Bristol Myers Squibb) and continued for the next 23 years.  Even with his busy schedule, raising a family, he had time for city and national organizations.  He served on the Englewood School Board and Lions Club International on the local and national level.  During his retirement, he always helped out with the City of Englewood, Arapahoe Santa Claus Shop for local children, Silver Sneakers, Colorado KidSight Program, Boy Scouts and many other non-profit organizations.  

They both very much enjoyed nature, hiking and traveling.  Family time included road trips,  camping and skiing in the Rockies; traveling to Europe, several trips to Mexico and the west coast.  Dad was very involved with gardening in their backyard, raising plants from seeds, often giving away many plants to neighbors; bird watching and always a passion for animals.  There were many family cats over the years.

He was very committed to his faith, worship and the orchestra;  played upright bass at many events, even at the St James Presbyterian Church in Littleton.  He and our mom were very fortunate to have loving families and lifelong friends who stayed in their lives for many years.

Robert will be placed, next to his wife Shirley, in the St James Presbyterian Church Memorial Garden with a Celebration of their Lives to be held at a future date.

In lieu of flowers / gifts, please make donations to Lions of Englewood, Meals On Wheels or your local Humane Society in his memory.

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