Memories of Bob

 My sincerest and heartfelt condolences to Gloria, Sue, Rob, and Patti. I first met Bob around 1980, and thought then and maintain that he was one of the coolest Dad’s in my teenage circle. As a teenager, running around with Rob was always an experience; I recall the positive energy, and fun we had as Bob took time to show me/us how to be a mechanic on the Hudson Hornet, Packard, and the Bullet Nose Studebaker (which at the time I had no idea any of them even existed). I remember him to be stern when needed and a fun-loving family man. I will cherish the memories especially the exciting times attending the local Concourse de Elegance Car show; the 144th Fighter Wing of the California Air National Guard Air Shows; San Felipe, Baja, CA MX., Spain; or just turning wrenches in the garage on Sussex Way. So many fond memories of Bob—I wish the entire family the peace that comes from knowing his memory will shine forever! — Mike Castaneda

What an inspiring man Bob was and the very definition of a life lived in full. At a time when we seem to agonize over every decision and feel we’re stretched to the limit, it is a special (and humbling) reminder that so much of life is in the journey itself and the more paths one takes the sweeter the destination. I wish you all comfort and solace in the memories you have and gratefulness for the example he set. My heart is with you. — Pete Deininger

A life we’ll lived, indeed. My memories of Bob are also memories of the whole family and the wonderful time I spent with you in Fresno, that shaped my life in so many ways and for what I will be eternally grateful. His smile when a “new” car arrived in the house (and Gloria’s horror when she returned from Spain and found out), his eyebrow going up and up, his morning coat and “txapela” combo for Bobby and Cristina’s wedding, el Nido in San Felipe (best guacamole ever)… I could go on and on, you (and all of us) were lucky to have him in our lives. Much love to all of you. — Estibaliz Abio

I will always cherish the memories I had with my grandfather, from cooking him pancakes in the morning whenever he’d spend the weekend with us to the long drives we shared on our way down to San Felipe (and the traditional stop along the way at Denny’s). He taught me the value of simplicity and hard work, all the while encouraging curiosity and the never-ending pursuit of knowledge. His presence will never be forgotten; together we carry on his legacy. — Natalia Waid

Yo tengo una historia linda del final de este verano. Mi hijo menor Juan Pablo, se compró un vehículo para sus dos últimos años de universidad. Un día me llamó para preguntarme sobre el registro del carro, las llantas para nieve, etc cosas que son muy diferentes que en la tropical Nicaragua. Entonces le dije, podés preguntar a tus hermanos Rodrigo y Roxana cómo lo hicieron…pero un segundo después pensé: muy posiblemente te van a decir q en eso le ayudó el tío Bob, y siempre se aseguró q manejaran un vehículo de cambios, no uno automático. Luego le pregunté a mis dos hijos y me confirmaron que quién les había ayudado era el tio Bob, quién fué como ese abuelo que no pudieron disfrutar. Lo vamos a extrañar muchísimo. — Roxana Waid Mantica

I will always be grateful for Bob’s help when I needed to purchase a car. My own father, who would have been a great help, had passed away, and Bob did a great job of helping me get a good deal on a good car! I also enjoyed many hours playing “Words With Friends” with Bob. A kind man who will be fondly remembered by many! — Veronica Adrover

Cuánto lo siento Patti, os mando un abrazo enorme a todos. Bob era un hombre maravilloso, tengo los mejores recuerdos de él. El beso más grande para mi querida Gloria Waid — Ana Gonzalez Cortes

As many of you know I am Buchanan Waid’s first born. Searching for my roots, I found Uncle Bob on a Wednesday afternoon while trying many phone numbers under the name Waid. I will never forget the soft, sweet voice that picked up the phone on the other side and when I asked for Buck Waid’s brother he replied, ‘yes I am’. I almost melted! From that moment on Uncle Bob and I communicated via e-mail or phone almost every day. He told me many stories about my father, the family and life. I met uncle Bob right after Margaret’s passing, and the time spent with him will always be cherished and kept in my heart. What an awesome guy he was! Full of interesting stories, well versed in different matters, cars (which I love; he was amazed as how much I knew about cars) politics, the war and most of all … life itself. Those few days were awesome! Uncle Bob was always kind and loving. I will ALWAYS keep him in my heart and will remember the love he shared with me. I know he tried to replace some of the love I missed in my childhood. He was simply the best! Rest in peace my loving uncle. — Mari Waid