Robert Lawrence Bratton

Robert L. Bratton, 73, of Woodville, Ohio, passed away Monday, April 27, 2026, at The Willows at Bellevue following a lengthy illness. He was born March 19, 1953, in Swanton, Ohio, to Lawrence and Mary (Weir) Bratton.

On March 26, 1977 at the United Methodist Church in Delta, OH, he married Wanda Shepherd, who survives.

Bob made a lifelong commitment to public service. He was notably the youngest individual ever elected mayor of Swanton and had previously served his community as a council member while still in high school. He was also ordained to perform wedding ceremonies, a role he took great pride in.

His dedication to law enforcement spanned many years and multiple communities. Bob served as Ottawa County Sheriff and previously held the roles of Chief Deputy and Lieutenant. He also served as Police Chief for the Village of Genoa, worked as a detective with the Northwood Police Department, and held positions with the Sylvania Police Department, Wood County Jail, and Metamora Police Department.

Outside of his professional life, Bob enjoyed collecting police memorabilia and patches, reflecting his deep pride in his career. He had a genuine passion for the communities he served and was known for striving to always do what was right for others. Bob loved seafood-until developing an allergy later in life-and always appreciated a good pizza. One of his favorite pastimes was vacationing on houseboat trips with his wife, Wanda, alongside his Northwood Police Department colleague, Ron Cowell, and his wife, Fillimay. They shared this tradition for eight memorable years.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at The Willows at Bellevue for their compassionate care and support. Bob's sense of humor brought smiles to many, and he was a strong advocate and supporter of the nurses and aides who cared for him.

In addition to his loving wife of over 49 years, Wanda, Bob is survived by his daughter, Katherine (Erica Williamson) Bratton; his brother, Ric (Shannon) Bratton; and nephews, Sean and Scott Bratton. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Friends may gather with Bob's family to honor his life on Friday, May 15, 2026, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Robinson-Walker Funeral Home & Crematory, 501 West Street, Genoa, Ohio.

Memorial contributions in Bob's memory may be given in care of the family. Online condolences may be shared at www.walkerfuneralhomes.com.