Robert Jacob Hahlen, age 93, of Monroe, died on Monday, July 23, 2012 at his home. He was born on September 19, 1918 in Monroe, the son of Jacob D. and Edith M. (Theiler) Hahlen, and grew up on the family farm in Decatur Township. He was a graduate of Brodhead High School and attended the University of Dubuque. Robert married Evelyn L. Johns on November 4, 1941 at Randolph Field in San Antonio, TX. He entered the U.S. Army Air Corps March 1941, earned his wings August 1941, and was honorably discharged in October 1946. He was on Active Reserve for 22 years and retired as a Lt. Col. Bob participated in the battles of Normandy, Northern France, Rhineland and the Air Offensive of Europe as a C-47 pilot and maintenance officer for a P-47 group. He achieved the Distinguished Unit Badge, American Defense Ribbon, American Theater Ribbon, EAME Theater Ribbon with 4 Bronze Battle Stars, 4 Overseas Service Bars, Occupation Ribbon Germany and Victory Medal. Bob was an Airplane Pilot, Aircraft Instructor, and had an AirTaxi Service. He is best remembered as the owner and operator of Baumgartners Cheese Store for 35 years. He was a member of St. John's United Church of Christ, Smith Lodge #31 F&AM, Green County Conservation League, Ducks Unlimited, 1010 Chapter of the EAA, and the American Legion. Bob enjoyed hunting, fishing, conservation activities, teaching young pilots and flying himself.

He is survived by his daughters, Paula Ann Caraway of Arena, Wendy Jo (John) Fjelstad of Cottage Grove, Heidi Sue (Rick) Hahlen Baker of Middleton; 4 grandchildren - Simeon Caraway, Justin Caraway, Drew Baker, Cloe Baker; 2 great grandchildren - Tayt Caraway, Shane Caraway. He was predeceased by his parents; wife, Evelyn; sisters, Mardell Hahlen, Eunice Henderson; son-in-law, Tor Caraway and nephew, Richard Partridge.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, July 27, 2012 at 1:00 P.M. at Shriner-Hager-Gohlke Funeral Home with Military services and Rev. Gretchen Sylvester officiating. Burial will be at the Michaels Cemetery in Cadiz Township at a later date. A visitation will be held on Friday from 11:00 A.M. until time of service at the funeral home.

Condolences may be sent to the family at: shriner111.com.