Robert Leon Wilderson

Robert Leon Wilderson also known as Bob, Bobby, Robert L., Leon, Will and Willy was born on February 24, 1943 to Harry and Arlene Wilderson in York, PA. Bob grew up in Mount Wolf, PA. Bob was always a hard worker. Growing up Bob worked at many different jobs including delivering newspapers, trapping maskrats, picking fruit, working on his uncle's farm and setting up bowling pins by hand at the bowling alley. In 1961, while still in high school Bob enlisted in the U.S. Navy. Soon after graduation Bob left for boot camp in Great Lakes, IL. and was later stationed in Lemoore, CA as part of VA 146. Aboard ship he was on the USS Constellation and worked as an Aviation Jet Mechanic. Bob was proud to say that none of his planes ever went down. Bob was a veteran of the Vietnam War. While in Lemoore Bob was set up on a blind date with Elaine Borden. On June 12, 1965 Bob married Elaine just one day after being honorably discharged from the navy. Bob soon found employment with Utility Trailer Sales. Bob started in the Parts Department and worked his way up through the company. While working at Utility, many people sought his advice due to his knowledge of trailers and the trucking industry. Bob lead by example and always encouraged his staff to be their best. One way he would lead the employees is by sending daily inspirational quotes by email and encouraged them to listen to motivational tapes by Zig Ziglar and others. Bob worked for Utility for 46 years. He retired as part owner of Utility Trailers Sales of Central CA. His last positions included Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing and Chairman of the Board.

Bob enjoyed fishing and golfing and was a member of Fort Washington Country Club. Over the years Bob participated in various service organizations including Boy Scouts, Rotary Club of Fresno and SIRS 159. Bob loved to work in the backyard and with his topiaries. He was proud to be an American and was known to put out over 50 flags for holidays.

Bob was married to Elaine for 48 years. He is survived by his wife Elaine, their son Jeff Wilderson and his wife Robyn, and their daughter Karen Gomez. He was Grandpa to Lindsay and Seth Wilderson and Alyssa and Garrett Gomez. He was brother to Pat Anderson and Don and John Wilderson.

Bob was a man of his word and was held in high regard for his integrity. He will be remembered for his positive attitude, quick wit and infamous sayings. Bob was the rock of the family, generous and loving. Bob left us March 27, 2014. Bob repented of his sins and surrendered his life to his Lord and Savior and was baptized in 1979. We are rejoicing that he is now with the Lord. He was one of a kind and will be greatley missed.

A memorial service will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, April 5, 2014 at Riverpark Bible Church, 7500 Millbrook Ave., Fresno, CA 93720.