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Robert Ferver Obituary
Robert Greer "Bob" Ferver was born in San Diego, California on July 22, 1946. He passed away in Fresno on December 6, 2010, at the age of 64.
Bob enjoyed a long and successful flying career initially as a pilot with the Navy and later as a commercial pilot and airline Captain.
He entered the Navy through the AVROC Program in 1966, through which he was able to graduate from San Diego State College in 1969 and subsequently begin flight school. He completed his primary flight training in Corpus Christi, Tx and was designated a Naval Aviator in April 1971. Bob was assigned to Attack Squadron 97 in June 1972 after completing additional training in Lemoore, Ca. His 30 month tour in VA-97 also included a nine month combat deployment to Southeast Asia aboard the USS Enterprise. Following that assignment, Bob served as a Light Attack Weapons School Instructor in Lemoore-based VA-122. He flew both the A7E and T28 from January 1975 until June 1977. Bob then commenced the first in a series of three assignments on the USS Midway, forward deployed and homeported in Yokosuka, Japan. His first job was as a Department Head for the VA-56 "Champs," which lasted until March 1980. Then, after a brief stint in Alameda, CA as Operations Officer for VA303, he returned to the Midway in October 1981 as Operations Officer for Carrier Air Group Five flying both the A-6 and A-7 aircraft until August 1983. After attending the Air Command and Staff College at Maxwell Air Force Base and being promoted to Commander, Bob returned for his final tour on the Midway as Commanding Officer of the VA-192 "Golden Dragons," from August 1984 until April 1987. Bob's last assignment prior to retirement was as Staff Officer for the Commander in Chief, U. S. Pacific Fleet. His active duty career was spent primarily in the cockpits of light attack aircraft, usually aboard aircraft carriers. Bob treasured the many friends he made during his years in service and often attended Tailhook and Squadron reunions to see old friends and trade "sea stories" with former wingmen and shipmates.
Bob's airline career started shortly after his retirement from the military. He flew for West-Air, Air 21, and finally Allegiant starting in 1997. Bob was one of the first pilots for the airline; he assisted in their certification process and flew their proving runs prior to certification. During his employment with Allegiant, he served as an instructor, pilot, and check airman. Bob was the first pilot to retire from Allegiant, doing so in July 2006 at age 60. Bob loved flying, the friends he made while there, and helping the younger pilots advance in their careers.
Bob was known for his love of wine, which included annual wine tasting trips with friends and family. He also enjoyed cribbage, played nightly with his wife Joan. He loved to sail, and in 1995 bought a sailboat with Joan and enjoyed many wonderful seasons of sailing at Millerton and Huntington Lakes with wine and good company. He particularly loved the bareboat sailing charters in the BVI, Belize, and St. Martin. Retirement also brought RV travel trips; he'd return from one trip and quickly be in the midst of planning another. Bob and Joan's most exciting and longest RV trip was in January of 2010, when they drove to Cabo San Lucas with a caravan of other RVers.
Bob loved to "tinker." There was little he couldn't fix which is particularly helpful when you own an older home, an old RV and boat! He was also known for his infinite kindness and patience; he was a great teacher and served as a significant role model to his daughter Kari. He encouraged learning and having fun whenever possible.
Bob's family would like to thank the Hinds Hospice care providers as well as the nurses and doctors of Community Regional Medical Center. They provided Bob with excellent care and were unfailingly gracious and helpful throughout.
Bob is preceded in death by his parents, Greer and Virginia Ferver; and by his sister, Barbara Erikson.
He is survived by his wife, Joan of Fresno; daughter, Kari of Lake Forest, CA; stepson, Darren Mankini and his wife Joy of Fresno; stepdaughter, Rachelle Shank and her husband Chris of Irvine, CA; and granddaughter, Madeline Grace Shank.
A Celebration of life will be held at Grand Occasions, 4584 W. Jacquelyn Avenue, in Fresno, on Saturday, January 15, 2011, at 10:30 a.m. A luncheon will follow.
Remembrances may be made to Hinds Hospice, 1616 W. Shaw Avenue, Suite A-5, Fresno Ca 93711; CASA of Fresno and Madera Counties, 1252 Fulton Mall, Fresno Ca 93721; or San Joaquin River Parkway Conservation Trust, 11605 N. Old Friant Road, Fresno Ca 93730.
Arrangements are under the direction of Chapel of the Light Funeral Home, Fresno, California.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Robert Ferver
Robert Frangione
February 17, 2019
Only recently learned of Bob's passing. Sorry to have heard. Enjoyed meeting him and sharing a short flying relationship. Never forget the carrier landing in Vegas.
Patrick Rodriguez
March 6, 2018
I rented from Bob for a few years at his Linden four-plex.
I was hoping to rent from him again and so I 'googled' his name and found this obituary.
He was such a kind man and I was surprised and saddened that he is now passed.
My prayers to his daughter and wife and bless all that were touched by the life of this successful man.
Joan
March 29, 2011
Sweetie,
It's no special anniversary or date to remember, its just that I miss you so much. I found a couple of old emails you sent me in my saved stuff tonight. Gentle reminders of all of the many reasons I loved, and still love you. In one of them you had gotten us tickets for "Simply Sinatra", you and I loved the "old stuff"!
I was coming home tonight, saw the red sky, "Red sky at night, sailors delight! I love you.
Mark Berger
March 23, 2011
Bob was a dear friend that was compassionate, considerate, and fun loving. We were roomates in college for two years and he helped me though a lot of the adjustment process. I appreciated his support and understanding when life got difficult. We connected 40 years later for a great bike trip in Europe. He had a great send of humor, an amazing skill with languages, a gentle confidence in being able to work with anything that happened. I will miss him and hope his passing over was as easy as it was to be with him.
Claudie Parrish
February 27, 2011
John and Kim Wood
February 25, 2011
Bob-
No need to ever check your six again. It is forever clear! You saw to that.
The wonderful comments from your Allegiant fans are right on. But your Navy buddies (and fellow sailors) have that respect trumped!
Rich and Susan Hensch
February 20, 2011
Bob was a friend since when I first met him in 1967 at Navy Officer School in Pensacola and he remained a friend over the years. He went west coast....I went east coast. He was very very successful and set a high mark of achievement whereever he went, and whatever he did, but he also had a lot of fun along the way, and certainly was one person who we will greatly miss! I frequently called Bob for advice and just to chat and was shaken badly when I learned of his passing. For those of us lucky to have known him we can all be considered very fortunate....he was truly a nice fellow!
Claudie & Phil Parrish
February 19, 2011
Bob, we love and miss you so much! Each time I think of you, tears well-up in my eyes. You were way too young to leave us! We hurt for Joanie since you are the love of her life! Our lives were touched by you, your kindness, patience, fun and just the overall great personality of Bob! We already miss our fun times at cribbage…also miss beating you for sure! And, we weren’t through having fun with you!! Losing you has left a void in our lives, but you will always be in our hearts!!!! Have a glass of wine waiting for us when we meet again! Our deepest love & sympathies go out to Joan and the family!
Jennifer Sjoberg
February 19, 2011
"Wait Bob, let me give you a hug, I love you". Those were the last words our son said to Bob as he walked out our door the night before we tragically lost our dear friend and neighbor. We saw him drive out the next morning to go to his dive class, but our lives changed forever when the phone rang not long after he had left that morning. He had gone to learn a new adventure from his "bucket list", but we didn't he know we would never see our dear friend again.
Bob and Joan had a life together that most people unfortunately never know. They knew how to enjoy each day, each moment, each adventure together, whether it was being in the same room quietly together, sailing the seas, going to the gym, cooking together or biking in France. It didn't matter what they were doing, they knew to appreciate each other and what they had found together. They were truly happy with one another and it showed. I will never forget all the times walking by their house and seeing them in the front window playing cribbage together or he at the side BBQ and her inside the kitchen preparing a beautiful dinner that they would sit down and enjoy, truly enjoy, together. Everytime we hear the garage door open, we expect to see our Bob again. I miss seeing Bob and Mikael out my kitchen window taking the time to talk to each other, share, learn, teach, and enjoy each other. The daily life around here has tragically changed with the loss of Bob. He was part of our life every day. I miss hearing Kane shout from the backyard, "Hi Bob!" and Bob replying, "Hey Kane, what are you up to?" in his happy way. You could hear the joy in his voice. He was always happy and enjoying life whatever he was doing. He was not moody or unpredictable, very even keeled as a good pilot should be. What an amazing life he had and he was modest about it, he didn't brag and yet anyone who knows him, knows there was a lot he could have bragged about. The sudden loss of Bob is a reminder to us to live how Joan and Bob lived, with appreciation for each moment you have with the people you love in your life because you just don't know if they will be gone in the next instant. The pain we have been left with by losing Bob is worth it because we have known Bob, enjoyed Bob and had him in our lives. He is worth it. We miss you and love you Bob.
With Love,
Jennifer, Mikael and Kane Sjoberg
February 18, 2011
Dear Bob,
We met once or twice and had a great time. But I really knew you through your wife Joan, my friend and teaching partner. Truly, there's a place in Heaven for you, for no other reason than all the love and joy you brought to Joan. You were her best friend and she will miss you greatly; until she figures out that you have gone nowhere and will reside forever inside the core of her very being. You had a great flight in life, have a peaceful one now.
Dick & Jenny Minnis
February 14, 2011
Bob was a fellow squadron mate and flying buddy in the Navy with me, and a sailing buddy, BBQ, bike riding and a co-conspirator in the pursuit of wine buddy with both my wife and myself....We are better persons for having known him and he is a friend who will be sorely missed by us both.
Bev & John Larios
February 13, 2011
What a great man. Enjoyed alot of his stories. Thanks for sharing him with us Joan. Will miss the fun we had at Camp Edison in ShaverLake. We think and talk of Bob often. Please stay in touch. Our love and sympathy to all the family.
Steve Endacott
February 13, 2011
I first met Ferv in VA-56. By then he was a seasoned attack pilot and natural leader within the squadron. He took many of us pointy headed Junior Officers under his wing, both at sea and on the beach. The troops loved him. When he was maintenance officer, we enjoyed some of the best jet availability the squadron had seen. The squadron won the Battle E and the Wade McClusky award (best attack squadron in the Navy) while he was a department head, no small measure due to him personally.
We worked together again when he was a Captain, serving at CINCPACFLT. He was a major force in the success of several Top Secret programs, so much that the East Coast Navy adopted his programs. His programs significantly assisted and prepared all airwings in the Navy, and continue to this day.
Dennis Mankini
February 13, 2011
Bob,my wife and I were fortunate to have you as a friend, and blessed to have shared holidays with you and your family. You had a warm and unique personality that was appreciated by all who were lucky enough to have you as a friend. You will be in our hearts forever.
Sandra Reid
February 13, 2011
The picture that stays in my mind is Bob holding my grandson Kane on his lap and patiently showing him pictures of navy planes...this was a big book! This was 2 or 3 years ago. What a beautiful man he is.
February 13, 2011
A great neighbor and a true friend.
-terry talbot
David & Jan
February 13, 2011
We met Bob and Joan while touring Baja in an RV caravan in 2010. They quickly became our very close friends.
Anyone who knew Bob and Joan, would understand how that could happen.
Bob was intelligent, thoughtful, humorous, kind... We could go on...
In short, in a lifetime of meeting people, he was one of those very few unique people who immediately made a profound impression, and touched our hearts.
We will miss you very much Bob.
Until our next meeting, and some "thirsty work".
Ed & Virginia Childres
February 12, 2011
Joan, we are so sorry for your loss! Our prayers go out for you and your family as you adjust and grieve.
February 12, 2011
Bob Ferver was the best "Boss" this old Master Chief ever had. We spent hours togather in his old "bus" driving to Fallon or Yuma for Weapons Detachments. He was instrumental in making me a Chief Petty Officer and a Senior Chief Petty Officer. His down to earth leadership and personality were admired by the youngest Airman and the more senior Enlisted. Bob was a good man and one of the finest Naval Officers I have ever met. Liked a good glass of wine and a fine story. We stayed in touch through out our retirements and got togather every once in a while for Sailing lessons or beach time in Mexico. I loved the guy....
Bill "Red Dogg" Moss AFCM USN (ret)
Jon Hollenbeck, Prudence Zalewski
February 12, 2011
Bob was, most certainly, one of a kind. We will miss him greatly and know that he can never be replaced. With all of our sympathy – Jon and Pru
Cheri Benard
February 5, 2011
Captain Bob Ferver was a good, honorable man who truely cared about others. I will always remember you standing in front of the cockpit with a smile on your face, handling everything with poise and integrity. I feel blessed to have known you. A time will come when we will see you again in the skies above, until then, you will be missed.
John Jensen
January 18, 2011
RIP Bob...you will be missed!!
Matt Jakus
January 16, 2011
Bob Ferver was one of those true gentleman and a fine pilot. His demeanor was something to aspire to; calm, observant, and ever unflappable. He was as kind in the cockpit as he was was just sitting having a beer with. Both Carlyn and I will miss him. When we think of Allegiant Air we will think of him.
Mathew Jakus & Carlyn Bedwell
Stev"O" Ostrander
January 14, 2011
There are a handful of people in life that leave lasting impressions. Some come from professional relationships, while others develop from long standing friendships. Bob's ability to genuinely enjoy each day no matter the challenge was truly a unique quality and one that many that he touched strive to emulate, including myself.
Fair Winds and Following Seas Bob
Kim Council
January 13, 2011
Captain Bob Ferver,
You have always been my favorite pilot. So kind, capable and full of humor, I always felt safe flying with you. I will miss you. My heart goes out to Joan and Kari. They are in my prayers...
George Doerner
January 13, 2011
Bob's passing is a great loss for all those whose lives he touched. He is a genuine human being, admired, respected, & loved. He displayed the qualities throughout his life that attracted those feelings of admiration, respect, trust, & love. He will be missed. But I for one celebrate his passing. While I grieve the loss of his physical presence I celebrate my belief that Bob is now in a place that is so much more wonderful, joyful, peaceful...a place with God. I believe there is a divine reason for everything and even though our perspective as humans may sometimes be limited, our Lord in Heaven has purpose for each & every one of us. Bob has fulfilled his purpose in many beautiful ways and I am grateful for that. While he has moved on to another beautiful place, and his absence is painfully felt, I recognize Bob is never truly gone. He is always with each of us in our hearts and our thoughts. He is a kind soul ever present in the same way that God is. Surrounding us in many ways, eternally. Life continues beyond this world in the same way energy is never lost. These beliefs & others bring me comfort. I truly hope they might bring comfort to all those that have known Bob and are feeling the pain of his departure. My sincere condolences to all. I thank God for having Bob touch my life and be part of it in the way that he has.
Lori Cowan Collins
January 12, 2011
I was so sorry to hear of Bob's passing. Though I haven't seen Bob since I worked at Allegiant I could never forget him! He was always so nice and one of the best to fly with. I have some good memories from the charters I got to work with him on and hang out as a crew. My heart goes out to Joan, his family and friends.
Deb Sprinkel
January 12, 2011
You are my idol big brother! It was truly a pleasure knowing you as you were like none other when it came to being a good genuine friend. My memories spent with both you and Joanie span back for many years while sailing and boating together, wine tasting trips, dining, and just plain sitting around and enjoying each other. I miss you already my friend as life will never be the same without your infectious smile and fun personality. I am a better person today for knowing you and I thank you for that.
Steve Farlow
January 11, 2011
Captain Ferver was a standard bearer. We're all diminished a bit to have lost him.
Bob, I was lucky to have you as one of my check airmen and it was a privilege to have known you.
Mike Federico
January 11, 2011
I feel privileged to have been welcomed into the Allegiant family by such an exemplary pilot and warm hearted human being. I thank Bob's family for having shared him with us.
Ron Doig
January 11, 2011
Defined the word Gentleman....
Mark Jines
January 11, 2011
Captain Bob Fever: Many hours spent with this gentleman; one of the easiest, most enjoyable Human Beings I have ever had the gift of being in the company of in my life. I am greatful for all he taught me both personally and professionally. He will be missed by many.
Steven Neumann
January 11, 2011
I with so many others happy and grateful to have known you.
Greg Frazer
January 11, 2011
My best friend. I'll miss you amigo.
Russ Garvey
January 11, 2011
As Jim Schmidt related, and I can attest, I was one of those fortunate pilots to be trained by Bob as a new hire - making me a better pilot than I realized, or maybe desreved. My partner and I were so far ahead in the ciriculm under his tuteledge that we skipped a sim day to go sailing instead. My association with Bob was indeed a pleasure and an honor and I will miss him. My sympathies go out to his family and his friends who knew him best.
Gary Hasterok
January 11, 2011
Captain Bob Ferver.........Gentleman, Mentor, Friend. Rest in peace.
bev nakayama
January 10, 2011
Joan, I am so sorry for your loss.
Benita Morris
January 10, 2011
Bob was a great role model for all of us in the neighborhood. His enthusiasm for life and incredible sense of adventure inspired us all. His love for his wife Joan was always evident. Chester and I always enjoyed his tales and stories while enjoying a nice glass of wine in the neighbor's backyard. He touched many lives. May he rest well now. He will be missed and he will not be forgotten.
January 10, 2011
We remember Bob as a good friend of Jim Schmidt's and Deb and Dave Sprinkel's a fun person to pick grapes and drink wine with. May he rest in peace. He has a great many friends and family who will miss him.
Scott Miller
January 10, 2011
Bob, you were a larger-than-life mentor and role model that taught us much more than flying. You led by example, a class act and a gentleman...you will be missed, never forgotten.
Jeff Vennettilli
January 10, 2011
Rest well, Bob. It was a pleasure knowing you and thanks for all you have done.
Patrice Wilson
January 10, 2011
Bob will be missed. My deepest condolences to the family.
Bob - I wish you fair winds, following seas and a glass of fine Merlot at your next landfall.
Jim Schmidt
January 10, 2011
In a world desperately short of good men, we lost one of the best. Bob's maturity, judgment, skill, wicked sense of humor, and ability to work with people was a unique combination in one man. His skill as an aviator and mentor contributed greatly to the success of Allegiant Air, both technically, and in developing the personality of the flight operations group. Pilots who flew with Bob or received instruction from him were indeed fortunate. Bob, I wish you fair winds, following seas and a glass of fine Merlot at your next landfall.
Leif Harding
January 9, 2011
I feel honored to have worked with Bob at Allegiant.
Chris Gillette
January 9, 2011
It was a great pleasure knowing Bob. He was instrumental in shaping my career at Allegiant as a Captain, Check Airman and Chief Pilot. Bob was a tremendous teacher and mentor. He will be greatly missed.
Trina Davis
January 9, 2011
Bob will truly be missed. I will always treasure my time working with him at Allegiant Air. He always knew how to make everyone feel great. He was such a special person, and I will miss him at the airline reunions.
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