Tuesday, November 24, 2020
Erleen and Valerie, I got the news of Bob's death from Marland Hanson by email. Its been a long time since I have seen Bob, but it was only a week ago I was telling my kids, again, of Bobby and the good times we had. People ask often if you would want to go back in time, and I think for myself, and probably Bob, we might like to. We had such a good time, and times with friends and family were great. Lodi Academy was fun, and he and I enjoyed so much together. I will never forget coming to the DuBose home after church for lunch, and then listen to Tennessee Earnie Ford sing his spirituals. He and I had many good times, but the most memorable was the trip to Atlantic City for Youth Congress. We were in a brass quartet, and took the train East. We played Rook much of the time, to the dismay of Pastor Seitz, and we just had a great time. Of course we could not keep to their program, because when we got to NY, Bob and I did not want to go on the bus tour, so, we ditched the group and he and I road the subways, and saw NY the way we wanted to, and even got back to the train depot on time. We also took our own tour other times, including Niagara Falls and Wash. DC. We played in a trumpet trio together, we were in a mens quartet together, and the band and choir, and just seemed destined to be good friends. Never a fight or arguement. We both enjoyed sports, and played softball, football, and of course water skiied with our families in the summers. Kathy and I were there when Bob was married, and then later we only saw each other occasionally. He did come to Chico, and stayed with us for a time, probably 15 years ago. I did miss him, and will continue to miss him, but I have so many memories of Bob and his family that he will never be forgotten. Bob had a smile and face that is impossible to forget Death of a friend and loved one is something that I, and all of us, have had too much of lately, and I find it a real struggle, but I know there is hope, and I wish for you Gods blessings and comfort.
