Robert Alan Howery

Bob was born on June 22, 1940, to James and Edna Howery, and grew up in Huntington Park, CA. He studied mechanical engineering before obtaining his Bachelor of Science in Business Management and later his Masters of Science degree from Pepperdine University.

His career path took him from Aerojet Corporation to Rainbird Sprinkler Company, after which he followed his passion for organizational development, first to General Dynamics and finishing his work life with Maricopa County.

Bob was the proud father of two children from his first marriage, Lisa and Rob. Tragically, both preceded him in death, and he forever kept their memories close to his heart.

His relationship with Cathy, his partner, wife, and best friend, spanned more than fifty years. Cathy brought her two children, Kimberly and Sean, to their marriage, and over the years the family grew to include six grandchildren: Joshua, Cheyenne, Cierra, Cameron, Cale, and Keely. Bob loved being a grandfather and spending time with all of them.

Bob’s passion for the outdoors involved him first with the San Dimas Search and Rescue Team, from 1966 to 1973, and later the Sierra Madre Search and Rescue Team, from 1973 to 1993. The deep friendships developed there continued until his passing.

Moving to Arizona brought Bob closer to the Grand Canyon, and it was there he found his greatest joy, hiking and backpacking every nook and cranny, whether with Cathy or solo; it was his spiritual home and he never tired of sharing stories of both his adventures and the sacredness of the Canyon. His passion for Native American cultural sites led him to helping preserve them for future generations. One of Bob’s greatest personal achievements was earning his black belt in Kung Fu, devoting nine years to the sport before his failing shoulder determined he had to stop.

But it was Bob’s intelligence, curiosity, friendship, and devotion to Cathy that he is best remembered for. It is hard to think of Bob without Cathy; they did most of their adventures as a team and supported each other through the hard times as well as the joys. His curiosity was insatiable; whether the latest in backpacking stoves, muscle cars, or politics, he was always learning and willing to share his knowledge. Mentoring others through his actions, always having one’s back and taking care of those around him, friends could call him about anything and know he’d listen. In later years he often turned to those same friends to get advice and support. He was never afraid to show emotions, all while keeping up a steady stream of banter, a great sense of humor, and an appreciation for silliness; he was able to laugh at himself as much as anyone.

There will never be another Howery. In the years to come there will be many Bob stories shared around campfires, all told with gratitude for having him in our lives for as long as we did.