Obituary of Robert Olguin

Robert Olguin, age 79, of Florence, KY, passed away on Wednesday, February 12, 2025. Robert was born in Austin, TX on August 25, 1945, to parents Ben and Lola {Riojas} Olguin, and was then raised by his beloved grandmother, Genevieve Olguin. He married the love of his life, Debby {Portman}, and had been together for 57 years, married for 55 years. Robert was a proud veteran, retiring from the United States Army after 23 years of dedicated service. Throughout his distinguished military career, he earned respect and admiration from his peers, subordinates, and superiors alike. Robert served as an infantryman, a drill sergeant, and among many roles throughout his combat service he was a Vietnamese advisor during the Vietnam War, and he retired as a recruiter. His commitment to his nation and his fellow soldiers was unwavering, and he lived by the values of integrity, honor, and service.

In addition to his military service, Robert was deeply active in his community, particularly with St. Paul and St. Henry Catholic Church, where he was involved in various church activities. Robert was also a member of the American Legion, Post 4, in Florence. Outside of his service and community involvement, Robert had many passions. He was an avid NASCAR fan and loved watching races, especially those at the Kentucky Speedway. Robert also cherished spending quality time with his family, and vacations with them were among his happiest memories. He particularly enjoyed the holidays, with Christmas and Thanksgiving being his favorites, as they allowed him to gather with loved ones and celebrate life together.

Robert had an eye for collecting, with a fondness for shot glasses and military memorabilia. He was also proud to hold the honorary title of Kentucky Colonel, a recognition of his contributions to the state. In his quiet moments, Robert enjoyed the challenge of crossword puzzles, a hobby that kept his mind sharp and engaged. A meticulous man, Robert was always mindful of his appearance, taking great care to present himself with pride. Whether in his military uniform or daily attire, he was known for his attention to detail and the pride he took in looking his best.

He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Debby Olguin; daughters, Stephanie (Joseph) Olguin-Hargett and Suzanne (Donald Coldiron) Olguin; grandchildren Lilliana Olguin Hargett and Blue Robert Olguin Hargett; and siblings Yolanda (Ramon) Zapata, David (Grace Ochoa) Olguin, Jesse (Martha) Olguin, and Ginny (Rudy) Garcia.

In addition to his parents Ben and Lola, Robert was preceded in death by his grandmother, Genevieve Olguin.

A visitation will be held between 9 AM and 11 AM with a funeral service immediately following at 11 AM on Wednesday, February 19^th at Chambers & Grubbs Funeral Home, 11382 Madison Pike, Independence, KY 41051. He will then be interred at Kentucky Veterans Cemetery North in Williamstown, KY where military rites will be held. In lieu of flowers, or in addition to flowers, the Olguin family encourages donations to be made to the Lewy Body Dementia Association by clicking here and/or to Disabled American Veterans (DAV) by clicking here. Please visit the corresponding tabs on this page to share a memory or leave an online condolence with the family.