Dr. Robert Michael Irelan

Dr. Robert Michael Irelan, 76 Local veterinarian of 48 years passed away June 4, 2024 due to heart complications. Known to all as "Dr. Bob," He was born to William and Muriel on August 30, 1948 in Lisban, Portugal. Several years of his early childhood were spent in Europe at which time he spoke four different languages. Upon returning to the United States, the family settled in Miami where he graduated high school and Miami Dade Jr. college, Summers were spent in Maine with his grandparents. His undergraduate education took place at the University of Florida with his completion of his becoming a doctor of veterinarian medicine at Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama. A few of his accomplishment in his field includes building and owning veterinary clinics. Breeders came from all over the United States even as far as Washington state to seek his services due to his expertise in anesthesiology. Dr. Bob was drafted into the U.S. military during the Vietnam War. He was a second lieutenant and worked solely with amputees. He was a research participant at John Hopkins in Maryland. Dr. Bob was a student of pathology (which he said was his favorite field) as well as professor of microbiology at Louisiana State University. He was a part owner of a zoo and night club (Club Iguana) in the Sanford, FL area where he also owned a veterinarian practice. Law enforcement canine unit used Dr. Bob in the 1990s and he was part owner of the emergency clinic on Bartow Hwy. Lakeland. He was happiest being on the water in any aspect and loved fishing. One of his passions was the work he did at the Miami Serpentarium. Dr. Bob also helped with judging at the Lakeland Civic Center dog shows. His main highlight was being with his four daughters. Dr. Irelan's survivors include two brothers, Gregory Irelan and Peter Irelan. His wife of 28 years Kimberly K. Lawson-Reynolds His daughters: Kristy Armendarez (Jeremy) Kelly Irelan Karly Wise (Tim) Kathryn Irelan Step-Daughter: Kimberly Mangus Grandchildren: Miranda Dixon Christian Dixon Johnny Dixon Terrio Wilson, Jr. Elizabeth Wise Timothy Wise, Jr. Jasmine Wise Talan Irelan Dylan Irelan Kailan Irelan Dakota Mangus Great - grandchildren: Kevin Suggs Kylie Wilson Kehlani Wilson Laynie Wilson Malakai Carter Laylanni Wise Karley Weir Khiro Dixon Kreed Dixon Braylen Ward Kynlei Cole Kailyn Cole Dr. Bob was known for his kindness and compassion toward people and animals. He was generous and very humble. His favorite Bible verse was John 3:16. A service will be held in honor of Dr. Bob on June 27, 2024. Visitation 3:30pm - 4:00pm, Service will be 4:00 - 5:00pm at Victory Church, 1401 Griffin Rd., Lakeland, FL 33809. In Lieu of flowers contributions may be made to Shepard's Chapel P.O. Box 416 Gravette, Arkansas 7273-0416 or any local hospice.

Dr. Robert Michael Irelan

August 30, 1948 - June 4, 2024