Robert (Bob) Foster Bortz

Robert (Bob) Foster Bortz, 72, of Kingsport, Tennessee passed away at his home.

He was born in New Kensington, Pennsylvania on July 8, 1953.

Bob attended Kiski Area High School in Vandergrift, Pennsylvania before becoming a Seaman Apprentice in the United States Navy in 1972. He was of the Lutheran faith.

He loved fishing, raising gold fish and koi in his ponds, music, playing horseshoes and spending time with his friends and family.

Bob was preceded in death by his father, Guy Aloyisius Bortz, and mother Laura May (Rupert) Bortz, of Kingsport, Tennessee and his sister Kathy Russell of Aurora, Colorado, and grandchild Daniel Bortz of Kingsport, Tennessee.

Those left to cherish his memory are wife Josie JoAnn Bortz of Kingsport, Sons Rob Bortz and wife Christy Bortz of Erie, Pennsylvania, Stepdaughter Amanda Doss and husband Matthew of Bristol, Tennessee, David Bortz and wife Bobbie of Eden, North Carolina, and Chad Blessing of Kingsport, Tennessee, Brothers Guy Bortz and wife Julie of Kingsport, Tennessee, Glenn Bortz and wife Robin of Blountville, Tennessee, Gary Bortz and wife Melissa of Kingsport, Tennessee.

He was a devoted and proud grandfather to Laura Bortz of Johnson City, Tennessee, Hank Doss and Luke Doss of Bristol, Tennessee, Taylor Bortz and John D. Bortz of Kingsport, Tennessee, as well as several nieces and nephews, and great grandchildren.

Arrangements are being handled by Hamlett-Dobson Funeral Home in Kingsport. A Celebration of Life will be held for family and friends at 4:00 p.m. on Sunday June 7, 2026 at Taylored Events which is located at 115 Shelby Street in Kingsport, Tennessee.

In Lieu of flowers, donations and contributions can be made to Josie Bortz at the Celebration of Life.