Robert Ksen Obituary

Robert (Bob) Andrew Ksen, 87, of Blythewood, South Carolina, died on October 11, 2025. Born on March 4, 1938, in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, he was a son of the late Josephine Chmura Ksen and the late Andrew Ksen. Robert had a true zest for life and a heart full of dedication. He grew up in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, where he attended J.C. Potter Elementary, Goff Junior High, and graduated from Tolman Senior High School in 1956. Shortly after, he enlisted in the U.S. Army and proudly served during the Korean War from 1957 to 1958. He was honorably discharged in 1962. Upon returning home, Robert worked in several roles throughout his life, including at Texas Instruments (1958–1967), Eastern Air Lines (1967–1989), and later at Walmart, where he worked from 1989 until his retirement in 2007. In 1995, he moved to Columbia with his beloved wife, the late Annie Ruth Ksen, to begin a new chapter together. Robert will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to our country, his love for family and community, and the warmth he shared with everyone around him. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. Survivors include his cousin, Patti Klynman and her husband, Jim. Patti and Bob grew up together, living down the street from each other in Rhode Island. Patti has often said Bob was more like a big brother than a cousin. Her children called him "Uncle Bob". They are Gregory, Kristen, Kathryn, and Kelly. Great nieces and nephews include Mackenzie, Kaitlyn, Rylie, Mallory, James, Wyatt, Ellie, and Abby. Step-children, Roy Roper (Lynn), Alton Roper (Teresa), and Mary Washington. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by, his loving wife, Annie Ruth Ksen; step-sons, Danny Roper and Larry Washington; and his beloved dog, Mishy. The family would like to thank all the staff at Ridgeway Manor Healthcare Center for the excellent care they provided Bob over the years. The funeral service will be held on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, at 11:30 AM at Shives Funeral Home, Trenholm Road Chapel, 7600 Trenholm Road Ext., Columbia, SC 29223. A visitation will be held prior to the service beginning at 10:30AM until 11:30AM. Burial will follow the service at 1:00 PM at Fort Jackson National Cemetery, 4170 Percival Road, Columbia, SC 29229. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that all donations be made to Ridgeway Manor Healthcare Center, 117 Bellefield Road, Ridgeway, SC 29130.