Bob Middleton

Robert (Bob) Allan Middleton, age 86, of Cedar Hill, Texas passed away on Thursday, November 3, 2022.

Bob was born on March 5, 1936 to Robert C. and Ruth Esther Middleton in Long Beach, California. His father was in the Navy and therefore Bob’s family was stationed in the Philippines from December, 1945 until August, 1948. The home base was always San Diego, CA where they returned after each tour overseas. From 1951 to 1953, they were in Japan where Bob attended school. After returning to the San Diego area in 1953, Bob attended Chula Vista High School where he graduated in 1956. Bob had several jobs while in high school, a Mexican restaurant, a donut shop and from 1956 to 1958 Linde Air Products. In 1958, Bob went to work for Convair in Palmdale, CA. During this time, he attended Antelope Valley Junior College where he took classes in electronics.

Drafted into the Army on January 27, 1959 Bob was in basic training at Fort Ord, CA and then stationed at Ft. Benning, GA. During his time at Ft. Benning he served as a driver for the commanding general until January, 1961. While based in Ft. Benning, he met the love of his life, Joanne Gaithe. They were married on March 14, 1960. After being discharged from active service in January, 1961 Bob and Jo moved to Nebraska to be near Bob’s parents. Within a month of their relocation, Bob’s father was transferred back to Vandenburg AFB in CA so Bob and Jo went back with them. After seeking work in the aircraft industry, Bob returned to Convair, San Diego, CA to again fill the role that he held prior to being drafted. In early 1962, Bob accepted a position at Lockheed Aircraft in Burbank, CA. After a few months, he was offered a job at Mobil Oil in San Diego which he accepted. He worked there until April 12, 1965 when he transitioned into his role with Rohr Aircraft in Chula Vista, CA. He enjoyed many years with Rohr and retired on April 12, 1997.

In 1960’s and 1970’s, Bob and Jo were in several bowling leagues. Bob also enjoyed English Trials motorcycle riding from 1969 to 1971. Then, in 1971, he purchased a Honda750 for street riding. He also enjoyed riding in his dune buggy for quite a few years until the early 90’s. After retiring, Bob started a hobby of in scale model trains which he continued for the remainder of his life. He enjoyed making the scenery and modules especially. On May 12, 2013 Bob joined the Dallas First Church of Nazarene in DeSoto, Texas where he was an active member.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, November 25, 2022 at 1:00 pm at the Dallas First Church of the Nazarene, located at 825 N. Cockrell Hill Road, DeSoto, Texas 75115.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Bob's honor to the Dallas First Church of the Nazarene (www.dallasfirst.org).

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.moorebowenroad.com for the Middleton family.