Robert "Bob" Henry Landis

Mr. Landis attended a one room school house in Murray and then went on to Kettleman City Elementary School. He graduated from Hanford Joint Union High School in 1939 where he had met the love of his life, Betty Donahoo. They were married in 1939, celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary in 1989. Bob joined the U.S. Army in 1939 and proudly served his Country until his discharge in 1945 as a 1st Lieutenant. Bob was nearly mortally wounded in action by cannon fire in France. He was a “D” Day survivor. He was found in the field and evacuated for medical care ultimately spending a year in a Military Hospital in Salisbury, England. They credited his wallet which he had placed in a left front jacket pocket for saving his life, he still has that wallet. A nurse by the name of Olive Whiffen took him “under her wings.” Olive was a Physio Therapist and she tended to all of the injured but she would come in after hours on her own time to give him his special breathing treatments. Soon the Doctors realized he was “going to make it after all” and he was moved to a regular ward. He was discharged in 1945 and over these many years Bob and Betty would frequently travel over to England to visit Olive and her sister, friends forever!

Son, William was born in 1942 and their second son, Richard, was born in 1948. When we lost mom in 2002 he would still go to the Dynasty, always sitting in their favorite booth enjoying the Wing family and all of their wonderful staff. He was very sad when they closed and remained so. He had his regular coffee group every morning at 9 a.m. sharp; Dick, Ted and Steve to name a few. Bob loved to go to the Base on a regular basis but not before going to visit Betty and make sure she had fresh flowers, always.

Bob remained a very proud retired Army Officer and gentleman until the end. He always felt that all the men and women who fought, and or contributed, in WWII made the United States of America the Country that it is today. This includes the many field nurses and stateside women that helped during the war effort.

Surviving family members are sons; William (Mary Ann), Richard (Lee); grandsons; Todd, Brady, Brad, Justin, Michael and Dale. Great grandchildren include; Gerik, Zoe, Olin, Granite, Clay, Arley, Baylee, Cash and Maxx. Bob is also survived by many extended family members. Dad will be sorely missed by all his family and friends. Bob was always a humble man with a gentle smile!

Full Military Honor Graveside Services will be held on Wednesday, December 14, 2011 at 1:00 p.m. at Grangeville Cemetery; 10428 14th Avenue, Armona, CA 93202 559-924-3439. Remembrances may be made to the charity of choice.

Services are under the direction of People’s Funeral Chapel. Family and friends may visit www.peoplesfuneralchapel.com to leave condolences for the family.