A dedicated public servant, educator, veteran, and voice in local media, Robert Klitzkie wore many hats in service to Guam. Our island community remembered the former senator, who was honored today following a state funeral at the Guam Congress Building.

Originally from Elkhorn, Wisconsin, Klitzkie made Guam his home in 1963 – and for more than 60 years, he served the island in every way possible. From a social studies teacher at George Washington High School, to an attorney, judge pro-tem, director of the Guam Department of Education and the Department of Corrections, and a lieutenant colonel in the Guam Army National Guard, Klitzkie’s legacy is woven through the fabric of our community.

On Monday, family, friends, and colleagues gathered to honor his life. “He was elected to serve for two terms, representing the people of Guam from 2003 to 2007 in the 27th and 28th Guam Legislatures," said Senator Sabrina Salas Matanane.

Klitzkie championed several bills, such as the Every Child Is Entitled To An Adequate Public Education Act and applying the Open Government Law to elected boards and elections. “Senator Klitzkie will be remembered as a statesman who cared deeply about public safety, education, transparency, and fiscal responsibility," continued Senator Salas Matanane.

Later, klitzkie became a familiar voice through his talkshow Tall Tales, where he sparked dialogue on various local and national issues.

Delivering the eulogy, Justice Katherine Maraman remembered him as a friend, devoted family man, advocate, and an adopted son of Guam. She announced, “Bob led a wonderful life. He used his intelligence, wit, and passion to earn the respect, friendship, and the love of his family.”

“Bob will be greatly missed...but the time has come for him to rest. So, we say, ‘Adios, my friend. May you rest in peace,’.”

After a final prayer, the honorable Robert Klitzkie was laid to rest.

All of us at KUAM extend our sincere condolences to his loved ones.