Bob Gene Breeding

Bob took up residence in various cities across the country before falling in love with El Paso, its culture, dry weather and food. A self-proclaimed “good ‘ol boy” from North Texas, Bob worked most of his life as an insurance adjuster, a job that took him to the aftermath of multiple natural disasters.

Bob had several passions that sparked his joy and he spoke at length about them to anyone within earshot. He was a connoisseur of all types of history, from ancient Egypt to the Civil War. As a natural skeptic, he collected conspiracy theories, particularly enjoying alien sightings. He loved to spend a day enjoying and ruminating over a good movie. His enthusiasm became infectious as he discussed the genius of Tarantino or the Cohen brothers. A huge fan of country music, he saw all the greats live in concert, and never missed a chance to see his favorite artist, Willie Nelson. Loved ones estimate he attended at least 25 Nelson concerts across the state, collecting dozens of mementos.

Bob’s true passion rested in the outdoors. A lifelong hunter and angler, his preferred vacation was camping in Ft. Davis, Texas or New Mexico’s Gila wilderness and catching rainbow trout … content to hike and wander the area until his curiosity was fulfilled.

By today’s standards, Bob would be considered a master naturalist and a cat dad, spending his time and money caring for feral cats and neighborhood turtles. Thrilled by the natural world, he could identify and speak about hundreds of species and he successfully inspired everyone who knew him to pause, watch and reflect on the miracle of nature around them. Bob often went to lengths to find a bird or hornet nest, agitate a snake, protect a cocoon or examine old animal bones if it led to learning and wonder. Bob never lost his wonder.

Bob’s greatest accomplishment lies in the homelife he created. A dutiful father, he never missed any of his daughter’s many piano recitals or theater performances, even inspiring her to pursue a film degree and a lifelong obsession with history and nature. More so, he doted on his three grandchildren and son in law who all share a talent for science and enjoyed his hokey dad jokes.

Most importantly — and a testament to his unnatural luck — Bob found a soulmate to beat out any other. Joanne Austin of Tennessee loved Bob Breeding as all humans should and deserve to be loved. Seeing past his minor flaws, Joanne Austin shared 25 beautiful years with Bob, becoming an example for all stepmothers to follow. They traveled and shared many interests, including a love for Avila’s Mexican food. As his health declined, Joanne cared for Bob, ensuring his comfort and quality of life in his final years. He died as he wanted: at home, in peace, near Joanne and their dog, Max.

Bob is survived by his wife, Joanne Austin; children Russell Breeding and Jen Shugert (Jaime Nolasco); and grandchildren James, Alice and Rooney.

Bob was preceded in death by his two brothers, Bill and Garnett Breeding, his sister Pat Hummert and his parents.

A private ceremony will be held among family and close friends.