Robert A. Hackett, 75, of Port Orange passed away on Tuesday, January 21, 2014.

He was born on November 1, 1938 in Wakefield, Massachusetts to the late Vivian and Frank Hackett. His family moved to West Palm Beach 1941 when he was 3 and that's where he considered to be his Home. Robert served proudly in the United States Navy. He specialized in submarines for 13yrs. and was stationed aboard the third ever nuclear submarine the "USS Skate". While aboard the submarine he and his crew surfaced at The North Pole. Robert circumnavigated the world twice aboard naval ships. He retired as a Chief Petty Officer after 20 years of faithful service.

Following his career in the Navy Robert relocated to Palm Springs and worked as a bartender at Palm Springs Golf Course. While employed there he had the amazing opportunity to meet many celebrities, including Frank Sinatra and Bob Hope. Robert then moved to San Diego to open a commercial soap company. His company was commissioned by the San Diego Chargers and provided him the opportunity to be in the locker room with players such as Dan Fouts.

He returned to Florida and opened his final business called Reliable Pay Phone Maintenance. He and his family maintained and repaired pay phones in the local area for many years where he was known as 'The Phone Man'.

In his down time Robert enjoyed eating out, playing golf, fishing, basketball, watching Nascar events, and spending time with his family.

He is preceded in death by his parents Vivian and Frank Hackett; siblings, George Hackett, and Nancy Hackett.
Those left to cherish his memory are his beloved wife of 30 years Donna N. Hackett RN, of Port Orange; children, Robert Hackett Jr. and wife Dorothy (Little Bit), Frank Hackett, Sandra H. Hetrick and husband (Roger), all of Oceanview, Delaware, Terry Law, Mitch Law, and Donald Straughan; all of Port Orange; grandchildren, Shane Yost, Trevor Law, Trenton Law, Rebecca Hackett; and first cousin Retired US Supreme Court Justice David Hackett Souter.

A private family memorial service will be held at a later date. Arrangements are under the careful direction of Lohman Funeral Home Daytona. Condolences may be shared with the family at bobdonnahackett@att.net.