Celebrating the life of
Robert (Bob) Oetgen
November 21, 1931 - June 15, 2022
On Wednesday, June 15, 2022, Robert (Bob) Oetgen passed away after an extended illness. He was born in Savannah on November 21, 1931, at the old Telfair Hospital. He was predeceased by his parents, Ernest J. Oetgen, Sr. and Katherine Mays, his brothers Ernest J. Oetgen, Jr. and Frank E. Oetgen and sister, Katherine Woods. Survivors include his loving wife, Susan, of 36 years, sons, Gary (Tracy), Eric, daughter, Kelley Jeffries, stepson, Hunter Bagwell (Ann). He is also survived by his grandchildren, Graham, Ella, Elizabeth, William Oetgen and Makenzie Jeffries, as well as, Parker, Connor, Trevor and Samantha Bagwell, of Indiana. Survivors also include former daughter-in-law, Jennifer Oetgen, brother-in-law, John T. Woods, caregiver, Chrystal Higdon and several nephews.
Bob started attending Benedictine Military School in the 10th grade, as a football receiver drafted from Savannah High. He later claimed it was “the worst investment BC ever made”. After graduating in 1950, as a 2nd LT, he told many friends and relatives that this was the beginning of his military career. While at Benedictine, he joined the Georgia Army National Guard, in 1947. This year the The Adjutant General of the GANG awarded him a Certificate of Appreciation for his dedication. Bob was also recognized by the Chatham Artillery (organized May 1, 1786) for over 60 years membership in 2017, becoming a Life Member. He retired from the National Guard/Army Reserve in 1968, at the rank of Major.
After graduation, Bob worked at Union Bag (now International Paper) for two years. Bob left to attend Armstrong Junior College to become an electrical engineer, which didn’t last long.
In January 1953, Bob started what turned out to be his life long career in insurance and financial planning, which he continued until 2020 at the age of 89. Bob earned the professional designations of Chartered Life Underwriter and Chartered Financial Consultant. His success led him to become a Life Member of the Million Dollar Round Table.
While living in Guyton, at Wild Turkey Plantation, he loved growing tomatoes, okra, blueberries, grapes and his special “wildturkey” sweet onions, sharing freely with family & friends. The fish from his three ponds didn’t taste bad either.
Bob was a member of the Savannah Golf Club (in the early 40’s, at the age of 10, he would access SGC thru a gap in the fence so he could work as a caddy), German Heritage Society, Chatham Artillery and St. Paul’s Lutheran Church. He was a former member and past President of the Savannah Exchange Club, former member of the Savannah Yacht Club. Bob served as the 1977 Campaign Chairman for the March of Dimes.
The Oetgen family would like to thank the entire staff of Hospice Savannah for their exceptional care and compassion to Bob and his entire family during his stay.
A celebration of life will be held in the near future. Funeral and burial will be private. The family would sincerely appreciate your memories about Bob and his life at Fox and Weeks Funeral Home (7200 Hodgson Memorial - www.foxandweeks.com). In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate you considering a donation in his memory to Hospice Savannah (1352 Eisenhower Drive), Humane Society (7215 Sallie Mood Drive), Benedictine Military School (6502 Seawright Drive), or your favorite charity.
Sorry to see that Bob has passed away, what a great guy. My condolences to his family. Rest In Peace old friend!
- Bob White, Greensboro , Ga
We are confident that we will be seeing Bob again. John 5:28,29 This sure promise comforts us in this time of sorrow. We long for the time when our loved ones will return to a peaceful world where there will be no more war. Isaiah 2:4 The perfect rule by Christ’s heavenly Kingdom government will restore the paradise as was intended in the beginning. Isaiah 9:6,7 May you be comforted. JW.org “Enjoy Life Forever”. Love & Prayers, Sandy Wirfs
- Sandy Wirfs , Monroe,, Louisiana
I am deeply saddened to read of Bobby's death and extend sincere Sympathy to His entire family at this most difficult of times. I remember most fondly many happy times I shared with Bobby and his Classmates at our BC Survivors Club lunches, at JH, over many years, and the special Bond that was formed with our many Schoolmates and the Monks of Benedictine Military School witch only grew stronger as the years passed. Although we were separated by time and distance for a long while, the Survivors club brought many of us together in our later years, to recall memories of our youth, and some of the best years we enjoyed at ole BC Bobby will be sorely missed for a long while by both family and friends, and my prayers are for his rest in the Peace of Christ, forever With love, Jack, '53
- Jack Daniels, Tybee Island, GA
Bob was a classy professional that always expressed the highest characteristics of our profession. He had a quick smile and a nice sense of humor. I will miss him.
- Bob Merchen, Savannah, Ga
Bob was a wonderful friend. and a great human being! He also provided great security for our family. Deepest condolences to his family. May your Soul Rest in Pease, Bob! Archie Davis
- Archie Davis, Savannah , Ga
Kelley, and Makenzie, My heart and prayers are with you. Praying that your wonderful memories will comfort you until you see him again.
- Sheri Kicklighter, Tybee Island, GA
Sorry Eric,Tracy Kelly and Gary about your loss your father was a great person
- Bradley J Poole, Kingsland, GA
My deepest sympathy to the Oetgen family.
- Barbara Foster, Savannah, GA
Old Soldiers never die.. They just pass away.. Bob will be missed by all of us. He was a Great man.. with a great life...
- SGT/Ret. Richard M. Lewis SR. GANG, SAVANNAH, Ga.
Bob was a lifetime friend and insurance rep for us. Always called him when we didn't understand an insurance problem. Condolences to family.
- Hugh & Alberta Scott, Savannah, Ga
Dear Oetgen family, and to Gary and Tracy. I met Bob once. He made quite an impression on me and was full of life sharing his memories moments and all he had dine, just as it is written. I also saw on TV the soldiers present him with a plaque! My condolences to you and yours. Sincerely, Erin (Right at Home)
- Erin Wintersteen , Savannah, GA
A candle has been lit!
Bob was an interesting gentleman and always explained to me how insurance works
- Bradley J Poole, Kingsland, GA
O God, whose mercies cannot be numbered: Accept our prayers on behalf of thy servant Robert (Bob) Oetgen and grant him an entrance into the land of light and joy, in the fellowship of thy saints; through Jesus Christ thy Son our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with thee and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen
- The Gordon Garner IV & Bridges Family , Chattanooga , TN
Sorry to learn of Bob's death. He was a terrific boss for over 19 years. May all of you only remember the good times.
- Barbara Roberts, Highlands, NC
Services under the direction of:
Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel
912-352-7200
- A Private Service Will Be Held