Robert learned to play bass guitar at the early age of 12 years. By age 13, Robert and his cousin, Gilbert Zapien, had their own band, The Gents. He played professionally until he was drafted into the U.S. Army to fight in the Vietnam war from 1967-1969. He served proudly and was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Combat Infantryman’s Badge, two Purple Hearts, Vietnam Campaign Medal and the Army Commendation Medal for Heroism. After his Honorable discharge from the military, he attended Bakersfield College. It is there he met and fell in love with Angie Pimienta. They were married in 1971.
Robert was blessed with three sons and three daughters. Family was his pride and joy. He did everything with his family from camping at Pismo Beach, deep-sea fishing, watching his favorite teams the Giants and 49ers games and worshipping the Lord every Sunday at Christ Cathedral church. He loved camping at Lake Buena Vista with his Calvillo cousins and Aunts Rose and Ruby. He cherished the great times he had going to watch USC games with his Soza, Cota and Vieyra cousins. He will forever be remembered for the great barbecuing at our annual Easter Pimienta family reunions.
Robert was preceded in death by his parents, his son Michael and grandsons Michael jr. and Wyatt Foy. He is survived by his incredible and loving wife of over 48 years Angie; his sons Roberto (Marina), Adam (Lachelle); three daughters Annalisa (Ray) Judy, Andrea (Erik) Foy and Alicia (Matt) Rice; 18 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren; sister Rachel Juarez; Aunts Jennie Amaya, Ruby Calvillo and Tina Soza; Uncles Tony Calvilllo, George Magana and Gerald Archer; 10 Pimienta brother-in-laws and 6 Pimienta sister in laws and numerous nephews, nieces and cousins.
