Robert John Taggart

September 11, 1941 – March 4, 2025

Robert John "Bob" Taggart, 83, of Salem, Oregon, passed away on March 4, 2025. Born in Salem on September 11, 1941, Bob lived a life defined by hard work, dedication, and a deep love for his family and community of friends.

In 1967, Bob founded RJ Taggart Construction Company, marking the beginning of a successful career in rock crushing that spanned over three decades. His relentless work ethic and exceptional problem-solving skills contributed to the growth and prosperity of his business until his retirement in 1996. In his later years, he enjoyed running several family-owned businesses in Salem—one with his wife and daughter and another with his two endearing sisters.

Before embarking on his career, Bob proudly served in the military at Fort Ord, Monterey, CA, in 1959. The discipline and camaraderie he found in the military shaped his character and remained at the core of his values throughout his life.

It was also in Monterey that Bob met the love of his life, Elizabeth (Betty) Kazakov, a sweet and exciting young woman from Canada. The two married and went on to share an incredible, just shy of 60 years of marriage. Together, they raised two children, Dennis and Michele. Bob and Betty cherished their time together, playing cards with friends, attending the Salem Horse Races, and building a life filled with love and laughter. Bob was a strong athlete in these years, carving it up on the ski slopes, laying out a big spray on his waterski, or jumping off the high dive with a cherry bomb. Bob always performed with true style, whether on the slopes, the water, or in life.

Bob's life was one of joy and adventure. He loved traveling with Betty and their friends, especially to Las Vegas, where he enjoyed boxing matches, shows, blackjack, and concerts. Bob had a deep love for live music and was an exceptional dancer, often closing his eyes and immersing himself in the music with a broad smile on his face and his arms raised in the air. At some point during the experience, he would let out his signature "Whoop!"—a joyful exclamation that became part of his charming and bigger-than-life presence.

Another favorite travel destination with his family and friends was Kah-Nee-Tah, in Eastern Oregon, where he honored his workers and their families with unforgettable vacations filled with golfing, swimming, delicious meals, and treasured bonding moments. Bob "worked hard to play hard" and shared that enthusiasm for life with his workers and family. And, of course, his "whistle of death" will never be forgotten. It was an iconic sound that demanded attention and always snapped everyone into immediate action.

Bob adored his grandchildren, often roaring, "Bring me my babies!" when he wanted them over for sleepovers at Grammy and Grampy's, which was as often as they could come. He frequently traveled to Costa Rica to visit his grandsons, always immensely proud to watch them grow and delight in their follies, often stating, "What great boys we've got here!" In his final years, his five great-grandchildren brought a sparkle to his eye and joy to his heart. The tummies of his family will forever remember his delicious banana cream pies and the famous Bob's Big Breakfast, both of which were made with love and always served with a side of humor. "Eat it like you mean it," he'd say, reminding everyone to savor the moment, just like he did with every part of life.

Known for his infectious humor, love of adventure, and sharp wit, Bob found joy in the simple pleasures of life. Whether tinkering with heavy machinery or tackling household projects, he could fix just about anything. Give him a tube of Crazy Glue, his socket kit, and a roll of duct tape, and he'd mend the world. His sharp mind and ability to work with his hands were legendary, reflecting his practical, creative, and "get the job done, and done right" attitude. Bob's adventurous spirit also led him to Burning Man for many years, where he celebrated creativity and community in a way that mirrored his open-minded, open-hearted nature.

Bob is survived by his beloved wife, Betty Taggart; children, Dennis Taggart and Michele Taggart (Ian Roy); sister, Carol Daks (Calvin Daks); brother-in-law, Jim Kazakov (Terry); four grandchildren, Chelsea (Ted), Christopher (Marianne), Kazlo, and Ducadi; five great-grandchildren, Asa, Mia, Rayna, Lucas, and Ruth; as well as five dear nieces and nephews and their families. He was preceded in death by his parents, Jack and Henrietta Taggart; sister and brother-in-law, Shirley and Roy Christiansen; nephew, Daniel; and grand-nephew, Micah.

Bob's legacy is one of unwavering dedication—to his work, his family, and the simple joys of life. He will be remembered for his kindness, humor, and the many lives he touched.

Robert John Taggart, our words and actions will be guided by your love and teachings, and we will carry you in our hearts forever.

A celebration of Bob's life will be held this summer in Salem.