Robert Joseph Mattos

Robert “Bob” J. Mattos, 94, of Novato, California, passed peacefully into the afterlife on September 10, 2026. He was born on January 21, 1932, in San Rafael to Manuel and Margaret Mattos both of Portuguese descent. Bob shared a special bond with his grandmother, Mary Bettencourt, and spoke fondly of her throughout his life.'

Bob began his 45-year career at Novato Disposal Service at age 20, eventually becoming a part-owner alongside Louis Garaventa, George Azevedo, and Raymond “Dutch” Myers. He dedicated his entire professional life to the company, retiring at age 65.

Bob married Bonnie Gayle Palmer in 1953, and together became the proud parents of three sons: Nick, Bob “Buddy”, and Tim. They resided at the corner of Arthur and Washington streets in Novato, next to Novato High School. In 1962, Bob and Bonnie went their separate ways. He later met his loving wife, Dinah, whom he married in 1968, happily stepping into the role of father to Dinah’s children, Bobby and Teri. Bob lived on McClay Road in Novato for the remainder of his long and full life.

A devoted father, Bob treasured every moment with his boys. Fond family memories include building go-karts together and racing them at the Vacaville track on the weekends. When his sons played Little League Baseball, Bob coached them to multiple championship titles in both Major and Senior League baseball.

Bob was blessed with many grandchildren and great grandchildren. He felt tremendous joy spending time with them during the holidays and especially on Thanksgiving, his favorite event.

Making wine with his friends and his son, Tim, was one of Bob’s true passions. Over the years, everyone enjoyed watching his winemaking evolve from what was affectionately called "Portuguese Diesel" into a variety of delicious red wines that all delighted in sharing. Every Friday, friends and family gathered in Bob's basement, famously known as "Bob's Bar". All were welcome. Guests enjoyed homemade wine alongside scrumptious meals prepared by Dinah and close family friend, Lea Kranci.

Bob led a full life filled with energy, camaraderie, and adventure: hunting pheasant with close friend, Bob Riordan, and son Tim; cutting and baling hay with close friend, Tom Tharsing, and son Bob; watching his favorite teams -- the San Francisco 49ers and San Francisco Giants -- with his oldest son, Nick; and raising steers with Bob and Tim. The tradition of cutting and baling hay that Bob taught his sons remains an annual event they proudly carry on to this day.

He was a dedicated and active member of the Novato Horsemen, the Hitch & Bitch Riding & Driving Society, the Sonoma County Trail Blazers, the Italian Catholic Federation at Our Lady of Loretto, and the Portuguese Hall in Novato. Bob and his close riding friends frequently had backcountry horse camping in the High Sierra, spending several days riding through meadows, setting-up camp, and fishing pristine high-mountain streams. They returned from their trips with many memories and campfire stories that last a lifetime. The lifelong friendships Bob cultivated through these organizations were among his greatest treasures.

The Mattos family extends their heartfelt gratitude to everyone who helped make Bob’s life so truly special. He leaves behind a grand legacy and will be dearly missed.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, October 10, 2026, at the Marin Country Club (500 Country Club Drive, Novato, CA). All friends and family are welcome to attend and celebrate Bob’s extraordinary life.

Online condolences and shared memories may be left at www.dignitymemorial.com.

Interview with Bob Mattos

To view an interview with Bob Mattos, please contact Nick Mattos at 707.328.5638.