Robert Porter Case

Bob spent his early years in Los Angeles. In 1945 he moved to Hanford with his family when his father and grandfather purchased what would become Case's Department Store. He attended Hanford High where he enjoyed playing on the basketball team, in the orchestra, and where he developed what would become a life long love of theatre. He attended Stanford University receiving his BA in 1952, and his MBA in 1954. While at Stanford he met his wife Bobbie, who was a substitute blind date. The two have been married for 63 years. During the Korean war Bob joined the U.S. Army, serving in Munich, Germany. For some time before and after his military service he worked for Macy's in San Francisco. In 1957 he returned to Hanford to help with the family business, eventually taking over Case's "of course" and running the business for the next 40 years. He believed strongly in this community, and was a dedicated advocate for saving and restoring the Downtown core. After helping in the effort to preserve the old Court House, he was one of the first to open a store in the newly renovated space, a boutique named Case in Court. After helping to bring the vintage carousel to Court House Square, he enjoyed his volunteer time running the carousel for the kids. In later years he ran his financial planning business out of the old Court House as well. He was involved in many aspects of civic life throughout the years, including trustee for the Hanford Elementary School Board, Member and President of the Chamber of Commerce, Member and President of Hanford Improvement Association, and as a volunteer in special programs for the Kings County Probation Department. For many years he was active in the Rotary, the Country Club, the YMCA, and the Kings Players Community Theater. One of Bob's favorite aspects of community life was performing. He and Bobbie began acting in community theater in the 1960's, appearing in close to 20 plays throughout the years, many of them together. Perhaps his favorite role was performing as James Madison Hanford, our towns namesake, for the Hanford Visitor's Association. As James Madison Hanford, Bob performed at progressive dinners and numerous community events. Through this role he was able to share the history of our town and this region with the community he loved. He was an active member of the First Presbyterian Church. Serving in numerous capacities throughout the years, most recently as a member of the Finance Committee, and member of the choir.

Bob leaves behind his wife, Barbara "Bobbie" S. Case; his daughters Christie Randolph, Robin Armstrong and her husband, Scott, Dana Case and her husband Bill, and Anna Michaels; his brother Jim Case, and nephew Kit; seven grandchildren, and three great grandchildren.

A Memorial Service will be held Saturday, August 13th, at 10:30 AM at the First Presbyterian Church, 340 N Irwin St, Hanford, CA 93230

In lieu of sending flowers, please remember The First Presbyterian Church of Hanford or your favorite charity.