Robert Contreras

“Seeing is believing.” For many, those words simply represent a motto. But for Robert Contreras, it summarized in every way who he was. He was modest, quiet and observant, taking in everything around him and always thinking before acting. He was a realist, someone who was efficient and practical in everything he did. He was a friendly person who truly cared about those around him.

He was the son of Eva Rojas Corona and Daniel Contreras. Raised in El Paso Texas . Then the family moved to Los Angeles California when Robert was 8 years old., he was brought up to be tolerant and trustworthy. As a child, he learned to be conscientious, responsible and punctual. These were all traits that he would carry with him throughout his life.

Most folks would say that Robert was shy until they got to know him. Those who were privileged to know him well learned that he was a solid, good friend. Robert was reluctant to generalize about people, and he based his friendships on his personal experiences. Because of this, Robert best trusted those people that he truly knew. He was concerned about how those around him felt, and he always seemed to uncover the positive side of people. He could relate to others and had the ability to see their point of view, to “walk a mile in their shoes,” as the saying goes. The friends that he made, Robert kept. While growing up, Robert maintained life long friendships, from his school and his old neighborhood in Los Angeles. He loved and adored all of his friends dearly./.

Love can’t be defined but must be experienced. That was so true for Robert. After two Marriages and a single like that Hugh Hefner would envy. Robert was lucky enough to find his true love. Norma Perez, was not only Roberts true love, but best friend and companion as well . Norma and Robert were like two peas in a pod. They did everything together. Their 16 years together was a true love story. It was as if Robert naturally sensed his companions needs, and accepted those feelings unconditionally. Although Robert disliked conflict, he did not take flight from discord, but rather sought to preserve harmony even during the most trying times.

Robert was a good father to his children. He had “old fashioned” parental values and could handle typical family conflicts in a fair and calm manner. Because he trusted emotions, Robert was reluctant to force issues and used gentle persuasion to resolve situations. In this way he seemed to radiate an aura of warmth and caring to those around him, always thinking before acting. In addition, Robert was a master planner. No matter how hectic life around him might be, he seemed to know and track everyone’s schedule. Robert was blessed with four children, two sons, Robert JR. and Brian, and two daughters, Robina and Marcy. He also had two step children, Victor and Paulina that he loved as his own. They were also blessed with many grandchildren that he cherished.

If you gave Robert a deadline, he would meet it. At work, Robert was always on task. Without hesitation, Robert could adhere to any assignment and see it through to its completion. His primary occupation was a truck driver. He was employed for teamster local 63 for over 35 years. Later in life Robert also worked for Stater Brothers.

Robert liked to experience things first hand. This quality influenced Robert's choice of leisure time activities. A methodical and patient worker, Robert preferred to set aside uninterrupted time to enjoy his favorite leisurely past times. His favorite pursuits were going to the casino, the race track ,watching football games and basketball games, and he loved to travel with his beloved Norma.

An individual who respected and maintained traditional values, his faith was important to Robert. His compassion, consideration and sympathy toward others was evident in his personal beliefs. He was raised a Catholic but in his later years he was more comfortable practicing Christianity.

Anyone who traveled or went on vacation with Robert had smooth sailing. It was often taken for granted that he was the trip planner. He would start early and examine all of the possibilities, selecting the best and most effective options. Favorite vacations included Las Vegas, Hawaii, and Cancun Mexico.

Robert passed away on May 24, 2012 at Robert passed peacefully at his home, in Ontario, California. With his true love Norma by his side. He is survived by his loving companion of 16 years Norma, his four children, and many grandchildren. Services were held at Draper Memorial Chapel. Robert was laid to rest next to his beloved mother, In Bellevue Memorial Park, Ontario, California.

It is said that some people can’t see the forest for the trees. Robert was able to focus on each individual tree, tending to its needs, thus making the forest stronger as a whole. Robert was a trustworthy, pragmatic and sympathetic person, the kind of man to whom everyone was drawn. He was thorough and practical. Robert Contreras was very literal with his words. You always knew where you stood with Robert. He will be greatly missed by everyone who knew him.