Robert Jay Dexter

Robert Jay Dexter (August 7, 1937 – May 5, 2017) passed away surrounded by his friends and family at his home on May 5th, 2017 following a courageous battle with multiple myeloma. He was born in Denver, CO on August 7th, 1937 to Donald and Myrtle Dexter. Raised in Edgewater, Colorado, Robert was the oldest of three siblings, and graduated from Edgewater High School in 1955. He served in the United States Navy for three years. After his return home, Robert soon met and married his loving wife, Mary Joan Cassell, on May 1st, 1959. Robert and Joanie raised three children and lived the majority of their life together in Aurora, Colorado. They remained married until her death in 1994. Robert spent his career as a licensed plumber, starting with an apprenticeship at Plumbers Local Union 3. After many years working in Denver, he retired from Auraria Higher Education Center. Robert always looked forward to taking yearly trips to Sturgis with his sons and their Harleys. He enjoyed working with his hands, often being found in his workshop and taking care of his home. He had a love for rhythm and blues, dancing to Patsy Cline, Freddy Fender, and BB King. He was an active member of the Elks. On August 27th, 2011, Robert married Rosalia Murch. They enjoyed traveling, race walking, and attending family gatherings. They resided in Aurora, Colorado and were active members of Trinity Baptist Church. He will be remembered as a loving husband and father who always provided for his family. Those closest to him can attest that his strong work ethic and dedication to his family were what made him a true man of God. Robert was preceded in death by his wife of 35 years, Mary Joan, his father, Donald, and his mother, Myrtle as well as his brother-in-law Chuck Hosick. He is survived by his siblings Ellie Hosick of Brighton, CO, and Clint and his wife Vicky of Arvada, CO; Robert's children, Jill and her husband Mark of Castle Rock, Colorado, Frank and his wife Christine of Aurora, CO, and Daniel of Denver, CO. He is also survived by his wife, Rosalia and her children, Jerry and his wife Wendy of Aurora, CO, and Dawn and her husband Randy of Highlands Ranch, CO. He leaves behind his grandchildren, Zach, Cassie, Danielle, Michaela, Gabrielle, Nick, Donovan, and Campbell, as well as Jordyn, Jesika, Robert (Bobby), and Joseph. Also, great grandchildren, Rose and Kinley Grace. Services will be held in Robert's honor on May 11th, 2017, at 9 a.m. at Trinity Baptist Church located at 15555 E Quincy Ave, Aurora, CO 80015. Reception to follow at 10 a.m. The interment will be located at Fort Logan National Cemetery at 12:15 p.m.