Robert Arthur Switzer – born 1/18/1935 passed away peacefully on November 3rd, 2022
in Scottsdale Arizona. Robert was an original! He was born in Cedar Rapids Iowa to his
parents, Arthur Cecil and Golden Pearl Switzer. He attended Sarasota High School and
Southern Technical College where he studied Electrical Engineering. He began his
professional career in radio broadcasting as a DJ and radio engineer. A long time radio
ham operator; his handle was W6HAT to his fellow ham operators. He worked for the
FAA in Germany in the early 1960’s where he developed a love for anything European.
He was the Vice President and General Manager for KNAC in Long Beach California in
the 1960’s where he was responsible for creating a progressive jazz playlist that was
known all throughout Southern California. He enjoyed a highly successful career in
radio broadcast sales and marketing. He earned many sales awards and special
recognitions in his field. His career took him to many places including residing in Florida,
Alabama, Missouri, Arizona, and California as well as extensive travel all over the world.
Robert was a survivor in every sense of the word- beginning with own serious heart
episode at the age of 49. He took this life changing moment to devote himself to helping
others navigate serious cardiac conditions by volunteering with the Mended Hearts
Association – eventually becoming president of the local chapter in Gilbert, AZ. In his
retirement years he founded Delta Phase International where he built and managed
websites, provided consulting, and stayed up to date with ever changing technology.
Ever the adventurer; he loved to fly his beloved Ercoupe airplane around Arizona. He
could also be seen driving around Scottsdale in one of his treasured cars- most recently
his fiery red Tesla. Robert is preceded in death by his wife of over 40 years- Jeanie who died in 2003. He is survived by his partner Rita Burlando, his sons; Robert Switzer
Jr., John Switzer, daughter Michele Squires and grandchildren Tiffany Barrett, Robert
Switzer the 3rd, Ashley Switzer, Lauren Ready, and Shannon Squires. The family
wishes to thank his loving and devoted partner of 16 years – Rita Burlando; whom he
adored and was always at his side through every new adventure. A private burial is
planned for 11/11/22 at Mountain View Funeral Home and Cemetery in Mesa, Arizona.