Robert was born in Louisville, Kentucky to Reverend William and Ada Florer. He earned his own way through college and medical school by working an assortment of odd jobs, including Fuller Brush salesman, delivering clean clothes, and orderly. Robert graduated in Medicine from the University of Louisville in 1941.

He came to Seattle to begin his surgical practice, initially on First Hill, working at several hospitals for many years. He then moved his practice to West Seattle and was active in establishing the West Seattle Hospital, of which he was Chief of Surgery for many years.

He belonged to several professional organizations including the West Seattle Rotary Club and the Seattle Surgical Society, and, enjoyed being a member of the Seattle Tennis Club. He loved his family, his garden, tennis, boating, reading, walking – most of all, he loved his dear wife Nancy.

Nancy and Bob are survived by son William, daughters Lesley and Jan, and granddaughter Avery.