Col. Robert P. Hohlstein, USAF (Ret)

Col. Robert P. Hohlstein, USAF (Ret), 87, of East Providence, formerly of Colorado Springs, CO passed away peacefully on Friday, May 10, 2024, with his daughter Leigh Anne Hohlstein by his side.

Born in Buffalo, NY, Robert Hohlstein was the son of the late Eugene and Wilma (Hopkins) Hohlstein. He attended Amherst Central High School and graduated from the University of Rochester with bachelor’s degree in engineering. Robert was commissioned into the Air Force in 1958 and served as a pilot and pilot instructor for the first 5 years of his military career. This included a one-year tour in Viet Nam. Robert proudly served the Air Force for a full 30-year career and retired at the rank of a full colonel, receiving countless awards, citations, and honors. While Robert was enthusiastic about all his military assignments, his position as Cadet Squadron Commander at the U.S. Air Force Academy was particularity close to his heart. He was a natural at mentoring young men and was beloved by his cadets, many of whom he remained in close contact with until his passing. Robert was also especially proud of his work at the Pentagon where he served on the Air Staff from 1977 to 1982. Following his retirement from the Air Force, Robert continued to work in connection with the government as a defense contractor, primarily around the acquisition of missile defense systems.

Regarding the more personal aspects of Robert’s life, he was a treasured father, grandfather and friend, who was known for his kindness, sense of humor and unwavering positive attitude. Robert was a man who found joy easily. He fully appreciated the little things in life such as listening to good music, doing yard work, and sitting in the sun on his deck. Robert also embraced life’s deeper pleasures like engaging with and supporting his friends and family. (This often involved the added pleasure of a beer, margarita, or scotch!) Additionally, Robert had a love of athletics. He grew up playing soccer and swimming competitively and later took up racquet sports, golf, and skiing. Robert fostered this passion in his children and grandchildren. “Golf Camp with Papa” will live in the hearts of his grandchildren. Robert was universally considered an “exceptionally good man”. He will be sorely missed.

In addition to his daughter Leigh Anne, Robert leaves behind three step sons, Brad Butler and his wife Pam, Bryan McLarty and his wife Karen, and Jason McLarty and his wife Keri. He is also survived by his seven grandchildren Alyssa Borden, Mathew Borden, Logan Butler, Harley Butler, Collin McLarty, Morgan McLarty McCowen, and Benjamin McLarty. He was the husband the late, Carmen Butler Hohlstein, and the late LaDonna McLarty Hohlstein and the brother of the late Richard Hohlstein.

The family would like to extend its deepest gratitude to the staff at Tockwotton on the Waterfront for all the compassionate care and warmth they showed us over the past year.

Robert Hohlstein will be laid to rest with military honors in a private ceremony at the Massachusetts National Cemetery in Bourne, MA. The family plans to host a celebration of Robert’s life in Colorado Springs later this year.

In lieu of flowers please make donations to Habitat for Humanity at www.secure.habitat.org.