Robert Charles Laird

Robert Charles Laird1924 - 2014Robert Charles Laird, 89, of Redding, CA., passed away on Thursday, February 20, 2014. Robert was born to Molly Laird (Smith) and Charles W. Laird on November 22, 1924 in Coraopolis, PA. His siblings, Betty and Helen, are both deceased.In 1944 Robert joined the United States Air Force, a pilot of B17s and B24s in the South Pacific until the end of the war. He continued with the Air Force Reserves until February 1, 1969, serving a total of 20 years.In 1948 Robert joined the Los Angeles Police Department where he served 28 1/2 years. He rode LAPD Motorcycle detail for 26 of those years. In 1976 he was forced to retire due to heart surgery.Under special permit, Bob worked for the city of Los Angeles, enforcing on-location filming, permits, occasionally appearing in movies. This allowed him to continue to ride motorcycle detail from 1976 - 2003, an additional 27 years.In 1944 Robert met and married the love of his life, Justyne M. Rosswaag, daughter of Harry and Mimsy Rosswaag. Bob and Justyne had two children, Charles Douglas Laird and Sherald Emily Laird. Justyne passed away in July 2012.He left behind 2 grandchildren, Shiloah J. Laird of Salem, OR and Raette M. Meredith of Kalispell, MT and 5 great grandchildren, Ansen and McKenzie Garvin, Tristan, Alexis and Raechel Meredith.Bob loved life and his jobs. He enjoyed golf, carpentry, fishing and most of all family and friends.His life example inspired his son to follow on the same career path.He was a great man, the best of the best.Services for Bob will be held on Friday, February 28, 2014 at 10:00 am. at the Redding Memorial, McDonald's Chapel. Celebration of life is at 1:00 pm. at the Redding Elk's Lodge.