Robert Allen Blettner

SARASOTA - Robert “Bob” Allen Blettner of Sarasota, age 80, passed away on Friday, March 29th, 2024, near his home. Born on March 15th, 1944, to Margaret Mary Allen and Robert Herbert Blettner in Broadview, IL, Bob was a figure of strength and positive energy, leaving a lasting impact on everyone he met. Bob is survived by his loving family, including children Jill, Jan, Amy and David, five grandchildren, and many dear extended cousins.

His early entrepreneurial spirit shone when he started his first business at age 11 as the neighborhood landscaper. This drive carried him through his studies at the Universities of Illinois and Wisconsin, leading him to become a respected real estate developer in Madison. As in all his endeavors, Bob was extremely thoughtful, and dedicated to using his real estate design to enhance people’s lives through the amenities, conveniences and uplifting artwork he strategically placed throughout.

Bob’s passion for adventure was evident through his hobbies, which included traveling, flying small airplanes, and boating. He was featured on the cover of Plane & Pilot magazine for his daring flights from Wisconsin to South America, Alaska, and beyond. In 2015, the FAA recognized him for his skillful handling of a typically unsurvivable in-flight emergency, a testament to his expertise and composure under pressure. This event led to his involvement in a working group that improved safety protocols for small aircraft.

Bob will also be remembered for his generous hospitality, always ready to refill a wine glass and celebrate the blessings of the day. His boisterous laugh will be long remembered and dearly missed.