Robert (Bob) Furman

Robert (Bob) Furman, age 92, of Sarasota, passed away peacefully on Sunday, January 1, 2023. He was born to the late Royal and Maude Furman in Illinois, on October 7, 1930. Bob was a proud army veteran who served at the Berlin Brigade in Germany. He was a member of the 10th Mountain Division during his active service years. He also played an important role in restoring the U.S. Army postal service which was vital for soldier morale and wellbeing. After returning from overseas, he and his father opened Burger King #12 in 1959. He moved to Chicago to expand the brand. He opened restaurants in Illinois and Florida and was a true pioneer for Burger King. He spent the past 63 years operating his restaurants and became a mentor and invaluable advisor to so many along the way. He maintains the title of longest running Burger King franchisee in company history and was affectionately known as “Burger Bob”. He wholeheartedly enjoyed his life’s work, but truly treasured the lasting friendships it brought him throughout the years more than any achievements. Bob had called Sarasota his home for the past 46 years. He enjoyed spending time with his friends and family, golfing, cooking, wine collecting, and extensive world travel. He will be remembered for his tireless work ethic, loyalty and passion for business, and his unforgettable sense of humor. He is preceded in death by his parents and sisters Gwen Huebert, Carolyn Stewart, and Virginia Eickleman. He is survived by his brother Richard Furman (Melissa); daughters, Kimberly Furman Cox and Jennifer (Todd) Furman Fairly, both of Sarasota; grandchildren, Kassandra Devlin of Sarasota, Jonathan (Alisha) Devlin of Sarasota, Kayla (Miles) Anderson of Sarasota, Alexandria and Zachary Fairly, both of Sarasota; great grandchildren, Royal and Poet of Sarasota and Isla and Owen of Sarasota; and many close friends he considered family. Family will receive friends on January 16th at 11 am at the Siesta Key Chapel for a funeral service. The address is 4615 Gleason Avenue Siesta Key, FL 34242. In lieu of flowers, contributions would be appreciated in honor of Robert to The Burger King Foundation. These can be made at: https://www.burgerkingfoundation.org/donate

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Robert (Bob) Furman

October 7, 1930 - January 1, 2023