BOBBY RAY "BOB" BOUKNIGHT

January 3, 1945 - November 29, 2010

Bobby "Bob" Ray Bouknight , 65, passed away unexpectedly but peacefully on November 29. He was born January 3, 1945, in Hanover, New Mexico.

Bob grew up in Paducah, Texas, and Westwood, California. After finishing high school he enlisted in the US Army, beginning a distinguished career that spanned 25 years of honorable service, including several tours in Vietnam. After his military service he obtained HVAC training and eventually retired from Merced County as a maintenance technician. A resident of Merced County for the past 26 years, Bob enjoyed spending time with family and friends, cooking, fishing, traveling and camping.

Bob is survived by his three sons: Robert and his wife Lorena, Ray and his wife Martha, Michael and his wife Jenny; six grandchildren: Brandyn, Faythe, Liliana, Brianna, Stefani and Michaela; two sisters: Virginia Marsh and Marie Spears; and one brother: Ron. Bob is preceded in death by his father Lee Bouknight, his mother, Sudie Bouknight, his sister Joyce Bouknight and his wife of 38 years, Millie Bouknight.

To his family, he was a loving husband, father, brother, son and grandfather. A gentle and quiet soul, those close to him found him to be full of passion and generosity. He will be dearly missed by his family and friends.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests remembrances may be made to, The American Cancer Society, 301 W. 18th St. #101, Merced, CA 95340.