Courtney, Robert A. "Bob", 81, of Tustin, passed away Wednesday, February 12, 2014.

Bob was born in Yonkers, New York. In 1949 and at the young age of 17, and with a signed permission slip from his Aunt Alma, Bob joined the United States Marine Corps. Bob married Nettie in the spring of 1958. Bob and Nettie lived the traditional military life and moved every couple of years living in the states of New York, South Carolina, Hawaii, North Carolina, Virginia, and finally settling in California.

After basic training Bob chose to pursue the area of law enforcement and investigation in the Marines. Bob is what the Marine Corps refers to as a "Mustang" , entered as a private and was promoted through all ranks until his retirement at which time he was a Major. Bob saw two wars during his career, Korean War (1953) and Vietnam (1967). While in the Marine Corps Bob continued his education and became a Polygraph Examiner. Bob also attended and graduated from the F.B.I. Academy. Bob received numerous awards, medals, and ribbons throughout his career. After 30 years, Bob retired in 1979 as the Provost Marshall at El Toro Marine Base. Bob was a very patriotic man who loved his country. A favorite quote Bob was often heard saying was, "Once a Marine always a Marine"! Bob began his second career the following day! Bob worked for the County of Orange as a Senior Investigator for the Public Defender's Office. Bob had a fabulous career with the Public Defender's Office where he also received several awards and commendations for the work he did. Bob was also a board member with the Orange County Employees Association. Bob retired after 23 years with the County of Orange. Having had two very successful careers Bob was now able to spend some time with his family.

Bob was preceded in death by his eldest son, Robert A. Courtney Jr. Bob is survived by his wife, Nettie; daughter, Barbara Courtney Murphy; daughter-in-law, Debbie L. Courtney; son, Ron (Susan) Courtney, son Bill (Christie) Courtney, Josh (Susie) Hylton; and granddaughters, Courtney Murphy, Dani Murphy, Taylor Courtney, Lola Courtney and Nicole Hylton.

Services will be held on Saturday March 1st, 2014 with Visitation beginning at 10:00 am, and Memorial Services at 12:00pm with reception immediately following at Saddleback Chapel. 220 E. Main St. Tustin Ca, 92780.