Obituary of Robert Denton Karlen

Robert D. Karlen, 70, of Leesburg, formerly of Dallas, passed away Wednesday, May 25 at his home surrounded by his loving family. Mr. Karlen was born March 11, 1946 in Berryville, Arkansas to Ernest Edward Karlen and Joye W. Plumlee Karlen. He graduated from Bryan Adams High School in 1964. Following that he enjoyed a lengthy career in the construction industry for over 40 years. On July 19, 1965 Robert wed Dee Ann Atwood in Phoenix City, Alabama. Over the next half century they would laugh, love and raise a family. After Robert's retirement in 2002 the couple moved to the Leesburg area. Robert loved to travel and had a passion for motorcycles. Most importantly though, Robert was a family man. His wife and children, and later grandchildren, meant the world to him. Mr. Karlen is survived by his wife of 50 years, Dee Ann Karlen; a son: Robert Christopher Karlen of Salcha, Alaska; a daughter: Caryn Ann Salazar and husband Rudy of Sachse, Texas; as well as the loves of his life, his three grandchildren: Sydney, Samantha, and Anthony Salazar all of Sachse. He was preceded in death by his parents: Ernest and Joye Karlen; and by a son: Craig Denton Karlen. A visitation will be held Sunday, May 29 from 4:00 to 6:00 P.M. at Erman Smith Funeral Home. Visitation and a committal service will be held from 1:00 to 3:00 P.M. Tuesday, May 31 at the Sacred Heart Cemetery Mausoleum Chapel in Rowlett, Texas.