Robert Clarence Jahla of Bull Shoals, Ark., passed away Aug. 13, 2023, in Little Rock, Ark. at the age of 76. He was born Nov. 22, 1946, in Mexico, Missouri, the adopted son of Elvin Ellsworth Jahla and Marguerite Balzer Jahla. Robert married Patricia Wilson on April 26, 1996, in Colorado Springs, Colo.
With his marriage to Patricia, he now had a partner for life who also enjoyed the things he loved. At an early age he began his love of hunting, fishing, and camping. The adventure of being outdoors led him to join Scouting where he earned the prestigious rank of Eagle Scout. Robert was a Marine Corps veteran of the Vietnam War, having served three tours of duty. Immediately after his service in the Marine Corps he began his career in the printing industry in 1968 as a production manager with Shepherds/McGraw-Hill in Colorado Springs. In 1973 he joined Williams Printing in Colorado Springs as pre-press production manager and was promoted to account executive in ’77.
In 2001 he and Patricia joined Sprint Press/Denver as account executives. Robert then shifted his job focus in 2003 when he became Manager of a UPS Store in Colorado Springs and continued until his retirement in 2015. During his years in the printing industry he worked with most of the region’s leading arts organizations and became a great appreciator of fine art. His shared love of art with Patricia led them to rekindle her passion for making beautiful and unique pottery. After moving to Bull Shoals, Ark. in 2022, he became a member of the First Baptist Church of Bull Shoals and Hoevel-Barnett Post #1341 VFW.
He was preceded in death by his parents. Robert is survived by his loving wife, Patricia Jahla of 27 years, (Bull Shoals); his son, Sean Jahla and wife Tricia, and three grandchildren, Kyrsten, Taaron and Mylan Jahla (Idaho).
A Celebration of Life Memorial Service for Robert will be 11 a.m. Friday, Aug. 25 at First Baptist Church of Bull Shoals with Pastor Jon Norvell officiating. Military honors will be provided by the United States Marine Corps Honor Guard.
Arrangements are by Kirby and Family Funeral and Cremation Services, Bull Shoals, Ark. People may visit an online obituary and guest book at www.kirbyandfamily.com.
