Robert Steven Rovai

Robert Steven Rovai The family and friends of Robert "Bob" Rovai are sad to announce his passing on July 1, 2014 due to complications of a stroke. His family was by his side. Bob was born December 1946 in Scotia, California to Julio and Melba Rovai. He attended Rio Dell Elementary and Fortuna Union High Schools, graduating in 1964. He attended Napa and Santa Rosa Junior Colleges and San Francisco State University - majoring in Radio & TV production. Bob discovered the electric guitar and the "Chet Atkins" finger-picking style, in his early teens. He became a guitar master and developed an extensive repertoire through many years of practice and performing. Bob always amazed people with his talent, his wit and his showmanship whether playing solo or in a group. Bob spent much of his early career working in the music industry including the Fender and Jackson guitar companies, in addition to being a contributing editor for "Guitar Player" Magazine. He was also a recording engineer and music director for Alto-communications, the largest radio broadcast company in the United States. He traveled many times to Nashville to immerse himself in the local music scene. He met many country music celebrities over the years and was fortunate enough to study with Chet Atkins at his Nashville home. Bob became a part-time chauffeur in southern California in 1987 before moving north to the San Francisco Bay area. He continued to expand his experience and most recently became a premier driver in the Napa Valley area. He received recognition for his professionalism and dependability and was often requested by former clients. Bob enjoyed his job and had many famous clients including Barry Bonds and Bill Gates. He had many interesting tales of his driving escapades. Bob also loved traveling. His first adventure was a solo bicycle trip throughout Europe. He later returned to Lucca, Italy, the ancestral home of the Rovai Family. He was also invited to Tokyo, Japan to record his guitar playing for a background music company. Most recently he enjoyed trips to the Bahamas, the Florida Keys, Berlin, Greece and the island of Crete. Music was always a major part of Bob's life. Repairing, designing and building guitars were some of his many talents. He also continued to enjoy bicycling and skiing. Bob is survived by his brother Philip Rovai and wife Susan, half-brother Tom Rovai and wife Carol, Aunt Mary Rovai along with numerous nephews, nieces and cousins. He is also survived by his childhood friend of 55 years, Walter Munchheimer. Bob was married and divorced twice. A celebration of Bob's life will be held Sunday, August 10th from 12-4 PM at the River Lodge in Fortuna, CA. Please RSVP by August 1st to psrovai2098@att.net. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Bob's name to a charity of your choice. Please sign his guestbook at www.times-standard.com and click on obituaries.