Robert J. Toolen

Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society or the Pink Sisters. Beloved husband of Jacqueline Toolen; loving father of Robert J. (Terry) Toolen, Jr., Joy (Lee) Heston, Lynn (Dan) Pounders, Theresa M. (Brad) Ruebel, the late Michael Taylor, Kevin M. (Cynde) Toolen and Lisa K. Taylor; proud grandfather of Kevin, Katie, Nick, Mark, Jason, Annie and Michael; dear brother of Francis Toolen, Virginia Brazill, Nancy Belgeri and Madelyn Belgeri; survived by many nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by parents Eugene Patrick and Mary Rose Toolen and 8 siblings. Mr. Toolen retired from the Missouri Air National Guard as a Lieutenant Colonel after serving for 32 years. He was a member of the Church of St. Cletus. Lt. Col Robert J. Toolen, commander of the 239th Combat communications Flight, faithfully served his country for 32 years. Colonel Toolen enlisted in the United States Navy on 5 January 1942 as a radio repairman and remained on active duty until 16 January 1946. After a break in service, he enlisted in the Missouri ANG on 1 March 1949 as an aircraft radio repairman. Colonel Toolen was assigned to the 131st Tactical Fighter Wing and remained with that unit as a Senior Master Sergeant, Aircraft and Electronic Super-Intendent, until 4 May 1961, at which time he received his commission as a Captain, with duty as a Communications Officer in the 239th AACS Flight (Mobile). Colonel Toolen was commander of the 239th since 5 September 1963 and is most likely the only commander in the nation who maintained the same command for thirteen years. Colonel Toolen was honored for his service with the presentation of the Air Force Commendation Medal, Meritorious Service Medal and 251st Combat Communications Group Meritorious Service Award. His hobbies included fishing for trout, camping and lots of golf.