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Bob May Obituary
May died Sunday of congestive heart failure at a hospital in Lancaster, said his daughter, Deborah May.
He was a veteran actor and stuntman who had appeared in movies, TV shows and on the vaudeville stage when he was tapped by "Lost in Space" creator Irwin Allen to play the Robinson family's loyal metal sidekick in the series that debuted in 1965.
"He always said he got the job because he fit in the robot suit," said June Lockhart, who played family matriarch Maureen Robinson. "It was one of those wonderful Hollywood stories. He just happened to be on the studio lot when someone saw him and sent him to see Irwin Allen about the part. Allen said, 'If you can fit in the suit, you've got the job.'"
Although May didn't provide the robot's distinctive voice (that was done by announcer Dick Tufeld), he developed a fo llowing of fans who sought him out at memorabilia shows.
"Lost in Space" was a space-age retelling of "The Swiss Family Robinson" story in which professor John Robinson, his wife and their children were on a space mission when their craft was knocked hopelessly off course by the evil Dr. Zachary Smith, who became trapped in space with them.
May's robot was the Robinson family's loyal sidekick, warning them of approaching disaster at every turn. His line to one of the children, "Danger, Will Robinson," became a national catch phrase.
The grandson of famed vaudeville comedian Chic Johnson, May was introduced to show business at age 2 when he began appearing in the "Hellzapoppin" comedy revue with Johnson and his partner, Ole Olsen.
He went on to appear in numerous films with Jerry Lewis and in such TV shows as "The Time Tunnel," "McHale's Navy and "The Red Skelton Show." He was also a stuntman in such 1950s and '60s TV shows as "Cheyenne," "Surfside 6 , " "Hawaiian Eye," "The Roaring 20s" and "Stagecoach."
He was particularly fond of his Robot role, once saying he came to consider the suit a "home away from home."
Lockhart said May wore the suit for hours at a time and learned the lines of every actor in the show so he would know when to respond to their cues. Because it wasn't easy to get in and out of the suit, he kept it on during breaks.
"He was a smoker," Lockhart remembered. "From time to time (when he was on a break), we'd see smoke coming out of the robot. That always amused us."
May and his wife lost their house in November when a wildfire destroyed their upscale mobile home park in the San Fernando Valley.
Survivors include his wife Judith; his daughter; his son, Martin; and four grandchildren.
Funeral services are pending.
Copyright © 2009 The Associated Press
88 Entries
Joe Fournet
August 20, 2024
Bob did his job well, as he made creative acting moves, in the robot suit, that made the robot character more realistic. Bob worked hard at his job and after seeing him in person, he was definitely a great actor, who loved his job! You just got to love him the more you saw him perform or at a public event. He was a special man with a good heart!!!
Nazarene Mckinney
April 26, 2017
I watched Lost In Space every week! Will always remember Robbie the Robot. You were great!
Anthony Messina
October 4, 2015
My second entry I could not resist. My favorite episodes wreck of the robot, trip through the robot, junkyard of space just a few of many I truly enjoy to this day. Bob a terrific actor, never met him but I'm sure he was beyond a great guy. Reading these lovely comments especially from his daughter and son and listening to the Herman Stein slow theme as Im reading these beautful comments are touching.which is a beautiful score and of course John Williams music used throughout the series as well. I connect with people that have passed away for a living. I find that it doesn't end here I believe in God. Don't push my beliefs on anyone. Its simply out of love that they come through for their loved ones. An amazing gift! My heart goes out to the family. From the fires and Bobs passing if I do well I will find a way to help. As Bob-Robot would've said; My sensors are deeply touched. Miss u Bob God Bless you and your family.
Anthony Messina
October 4, 2015
To a wonderful person and actor. Lost In Space has touched my heart from day one. He made the robot appear to look life-like. Only Bob could've made that possible. I love the show to this day. May God Rest Your Soul and be with your family. That my friend computes. Thanks Bob.
How you can show support
Harry Simpson
January 18, 2015
Thank you for sharing a part of your life with us.
Val
January 18, 2014
That does not compute. Danger,danger Will Robinson! I loved the robot the best. God bless his family. He brought fun to us baby boomers of the 1960's.
March 7, 2010
For Bob...
WEEP NOT FOR ME
Do not weep for me when I no longer dwell among the wonders of the earth; for my larger self is free, and my soul rejoices on the other side of pain...on the other side of darkness.
Do not weep for me, for I am a ray of sunshine that touches your skin, a tropical breeze upon your face, the hush of joy within your heart and the innocence of babes in mothers arms.
I am the hope in a darkened night. And, in your hour of need, I will be there to comfort you. I will share your tears, your joys, your fears, your disappointments and your triumphs.
Do not weep for me, for I am cradled
in the arms of God. I walk with the angels, and hear the music beyond the stars.
Do not weep for me, for I am within you;
I am peace, love, I am a soft wind that caresses the flowers. I am the calm that follows a raging storm. I am an autumns leaf that floats among the garden of God, and I am pure white snow that softly falls upon your hand.
Do not weep for me, for I shall never die, as long as you remember me...
with a smile and a sigh.
© Joe Fazio
~
[email protected] /Joe Fazio,
Beverly Hills, California
Deborah May
January 31, 2009
I would like to thank everyone for their kind, loving words about my Daddy. My family finds them such a comfort. To me, he was the most amazing man that made my life so filled with laughter and love. I will miss him everyday of my life. He was a wonderful actor and a hugh talent but, to me he was the best Daddy a girl could ever dream of...rip Daddy, thank you for all the love!
Stephen Pisani
January 30, 2009
FROM "LOST IN SPACE" TO "LOST IN THE FIRE" THE CONCERT FOR BOB MAY.?
Because I promised Bob this in front of his wife and daughter, I still plan to proceed with the concert.
I promised Bob that I was going to do a music concert to raise money for him and his family and although he is no longer with us, his family has many bills that need to be taken care of right away.
Can you imagine losing your home and everything in it you have had in a fire and then losing your husband/ father within 2 months of that.
So many of you have written to me thanking me for raising money for Bob before he died, let me say that I was honored to do that.
I will let you all know where the concert is going to be and how many "names" I can get to be there and let's see about helping Bob's family in this most difficult time of their lives.
Steve
Steve Pisani and Bob.
January 29, 2009
Stephen Pisani
January 29, 2009
Bob,
You will always be family to me and although I was one of the very last persons to see you and be with you I at least got to tell you how much you are loved by me.
June consoled me at the viewing and I said my final goodbye to you at your mass.
You will always be a big brother to me and I will do everything I can to be there for Judy and Deb.
You are in God's hands now and that is what is pulling me through this.
Your friend and brother,
Stephen Pisani
Judy, Bob and myself at eh Global Sci Fi Con
Simon Hancock
January 28, 2009
Bob meant so much to me and my family. Of course I loved him as the robot, but I was so fortunate to know him as my friend. We love you Bobby, rest in peace our dear friend. See you on Alpha Centauri.
Skip Manning
January 28, 2009
Three generations of my family have loved the characters he played; bless him and keep him...
Cheryl Bedard
January 24, 2009
I wish the family faith and hope in their time of greif. I too grew up with Lost In Space. The robot was one of my favorite characters. I always loved it when he extended his arms and said "Danger Will Robinson". Those arms would be going in all directions. He will be missed by many fans. May he rest in peace.
Charles Daly
January 24, 2009
Thank you so much for the happiness you gave me as a boy. I will not forget you.
May your family find some small measure in their time of grief.
The Link Family
January 24, 2009
God Bless the the May's family in their hour of grief. Your father will always be remembered as the robot in Lost in Space. He brought a humanity to robot.
Know that your father is in the best hands ever Our Lord's.
Cynthia Powers
January 24, 2009
My thoughts and prayers go out to Mr Bob May's family and friends.I pray all your wonderful memories sustain you during this sad time.Mr Bob you will be missed.God speed and blessings.
Jeannine Enz
January 23, 2009
My sincere sympathy to Bob May's family. I loved Lost in Space. I especially loved the Robot. I even got my daughter hooked on watching the show after I bought some of the shows on VHS. I will always have fond memories of watching the show.
Sincerely,
Bill Carroll
January 23, 2009
My sympathy to the friends and relatives of this dedicated performer. It took real hutspah to stay in that costume for all those hours. He really brought the robot character to life and his timing was excellent. He will live on in re-runs and in all our memories.
Jeff Brown
January 23, 2009
Bob May was a true gentleman in every sense of the word. Growing up watching "Lost in Space," I never really could figure out if there was a man in the robot. Finding out, years later, that Mr. May not only filled the costume but gave the Robot his personality did not surprise me at all. My wife and I had the pleasure of meeting him twice and receiving an autograph, which now hangs on a wall in my studio. He will be missed by fans of "Lost in Space," and all those who had the privilege of knowing him.
Denise Dillon
January 23, 2009
Like the many who have expressed their fond memories of the man behind the robot, I too was fascinated and understand now the robot's human-like character, as there was indeed a man inside the suit! As an adult, I was able to experience the wonderful feeling of being a kid again when my now late-husband would mimic the moves and repeat the phrases of this lovable character. I hope the two of you are having a blast of fun right now! Thanks for the memories.
January 23, 2009
Please accept my heartfelt sympathy for your loss. Memories of good times and the love of family and friends will encourage you in the days and months ahead. May the scriptures comfort you and give you hope and strength. Psalm 34:18 - "God is near to those that are broken-hearted; and to those that are crushed in spirit he saves. You are in my prayers.
Michele N. Sandridge
January 23, 2009
So much joy Mr May brought to my childhood. Of course, I never knew him other than to watch him as my favorite robot--which I never really knew WHO was in there..but now, I will always smile as I watch the reruns. Please know I shall remember him as well as his family in my prayers.
God Bless
D.E. O'Brien
January 23, 2009
goodbye Mr. May. I too have so many fond memories of my childhood watching "Lost in Space", on our 3 channel tv .( On a farm in Iowa) My how things have changed!
Will Robinson , and his faithful buddy, the robot and dr, smith-all provided hours of entertainmant. Thank you, mr may. Godspeed.
Martin May
January 22, 2009
I would like to thank everyone for all the kind words about my dad and i know that my mom do'es too! The robot started out as a part in a show but grew into a life style for my dad and he loved every minute of it. so to every one out there remember "DANGER WILL ROBINSON!" The show is now syndicated from heaven.
harold cupp
January 22, 2009
i have always love that show never miss it when it came on tv i was glue to my set and wish they had it back on again even reruns would be great to see it again.
Craig Barker
January 21, 2009
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
Phylis Geller
January 21, 2009
Mr. May helped to creat the illusion of a memorable character; a part of my growing up in the 50's and 60's. Rest In Peace, and my condolences to your family and friends.
Robert Dea
January 21, 2009
To Family and Friends,
I was deeply saddened to learn of Mr. May's sudden passing. As a child growing up in the 60's "LOST IN SPACE" was one of my favorite shows. Like many other children I never knew there was anyone inside the Robot making him act and bringing him to life. Concerning the Robot Mr. May was an "unknown" for many years but I have to say that no one else could have put the life and realism in the Robot like he did. The Robot is still one of my favorite characters from back then.
To Mr. May, "Thank you for years of warm memories of the Robot." You will be missed by many.
Respectfully submitted,
R. A. Dea
January 20, 2009
Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted.
Matthew 5:4
January 20, 2009
Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted.
Matthew 5:4
fran lizzotte
January 20, 2009
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
bob may
January 20, 2009
Het is hard als je zo midden in je leven wordt weggeroepen. Je staat er niet bij stil dat het jou overkomt. Alle familie wens ik veel sterkte met verlies van mijn naamgenoot.
Bob Rocheleau
January 20, 2009
I think all who grew up during the 60's will remember "LOST IN SPACE" and the man who made the Robot! At any convention I've ever attended, and that is several, when the surviving cast is there, they all speak with fondness and warmth, I wish his family all the best, he will be missed, just a shame I never got to meet him personally. I don't think a child of the 60's alive still don't have "THE ROBOT!" I know I still do!
January 20, 2009
I always loved Lost in Space!
My sympathy to his family.
Sincerely, Darla from IL
Guy Vardaman
January 20, 2009
This is a very sad day for Science Fiction. Lots of loss lately, it seems. Bob was a great fellow and always had a smile and a joke for everyone. What a wonderful fellow. I and many others, will dearly miss him at conventions and events that he brightened.
Michelle
January 20, 2009
What a great show that was. It brings back fond memories. My deepest sympathies to his family.
Muffy
January 20, 2009
My sympathies and thoughts are with Mr. May's family.
As a child in the 60s, I really believed that robot was with the Robinson family, helping them on their journies to strange worlds. And I wanted to be there, too!
Thanks, Bob!
Ginny Hunter
January 20, 2009
My deepest sympathy to the Bob May family for their loss. My Big thanks to Bob May for all the wonderful memories you helped create for me while watching Lost in Space. Danger Danger Warning... These words have been used over and over in my family and with friends. God Bless.
Juanita Mikell
January 20, 2009
Bob you were great, the Robt, Will, and Dr. Smith made the show! I would watch re-runs forever if it was to return. Bob you will be missed by everyone of us who knew you. May God hold you in His memory, and bless your family. Psalms 83:18
David Blanchard
January 20, 2009
Dear,Dear family of Bob May, so sorry, to read of your passing. i watched you, with my daughter and son. i am 63,daughter42& son40. all our love,dave,bonnie&Bill
Larry Frey
January 20, 2009
Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family and friends of Mr. May. Lost in Space was a favorite program during my childhood. A robot toy I had during that time always reminded me of the one on the TV program.
Rich Houghtaling
January 20, 2009
Thank you Bob May for all the great memories. I'm now 55 and occasionally still use the phrase "danger Will Robinson" among my office associates.
Rest in peace.
Rich Houghtaling
Wake Forest, NC
KEN & MARY O'DANIEL
January 20, 2009
WE SEND OUR LOVE, PRAYERS, &CONDOLENCES TO THE MAY FAMILY, HIS FRIENDS,& ALL BOB WORKED WITH HIS LIFETIME.
Pete Lieggi
January 20, 2009
Dear Family of Bob May, the Robot,
I will always remember a time when as television was king and the exploits of Dr. Smith called him, " You Bumbling Booby, " would make a scary scene of monsters and aliens tame. You don't appreciate something you grew up with until its gone and I will always see the Robot, but can always now have a perception of a face with it. May God Bless You and May He Rest in Peace.
Pete Lieggi
pamela back
January 20, 2009
I remember how much I enjoyed watching Lost In Space, I have found them on the computer and will enjoy them again. THANKS!
Me and Bob with Brad C's B9
Charlie Garcia
January 20, 2009
It was a thrill to meet the man that that brought my childhood hero, The Robot, to life. You will live forever in my memories. Thanks Bob.
Conrad Sifel
January 20, 2009
God bless you and rest in peace Mr. May our friend robot B9. Thank you for making Lost in space a cultural icon and great entertainment for fans around the world!!
Charles Martin
January 19, 2009
Thanks for all the memories.My prayers are with your family.
Me & Bob at an autograph show
Tim Bailey
January 19, 2009
Thanks for all the memories Bob, you made
my childhood.
Keith Sturgeon
January 19, 2009
I will miss you Bob, you became a dear friend of mine and you will be missed.
Redeye Knight
January 19, 2009
I was saddened to hear of Bob's passing. Those of us building replicas of his B9 robot will continue his legacy of friendliness and charm. Happy trails Bob.
Travis Jeter
January 19, 2009
My heart is saddenned with the loss of Bob. He always had time to talk with the fans. My condolences to his family. Bob may be gone but will always be remembered.
Ray Ford
January 19, 2009
Celebrating a life well lived. We will cherish the memories forever.
Alien In White
January 19, 2009
I don't think many people could perform the Robot's body movements better than you did! Thank you for all the fun and everything else!
SHEILA SMITH
January 19, 2009
Rest in Peace Bob.
David Huber
January 19, 2009
A dream come true for me was when I had Bob sign my robot's torso. He even paid the photographer out of his own pocket so I could have a picture of him signing it. He was a great guy.
January 19, 2009
I loved that goofy robot. Thanks for the smiles!
D. ZIMMERMAN
January 19, 2009
REST IN PEACE BOB MAY
Melody (Lost in Space Fan)
January 19, 2009
Thanks for all the childhood memories...you were my after school delight! My sympathy to the family and friends of this dear talented man.
Michael Roberts
January 19, 2009
My condolencenses to the May family for the loss of a wonderful entertainer. He was this sci-fi fan's favorite character on his favorite show!
Dennis
January 19, 2009
Although it is sad to lose those who are dear to us, there is comfort in remembering all the times they mad such a difference in our lives.
Michael Davis
January 19, 2009
Always one of the most fan friendly actors in Hollywood. He will be missed. Thank's Bob, for everything.
Jeanne & Otto Klittich
January 19, 2009
Judy, So sorry to hear about Bobby. Saw him on an old 'To Tell The Truth' and was going to try to find you. We have so many great memories from our CB camping days! Marge Ottens sent me to this paper to read his bio. Also didn't know you had been burned out in the fires this year..oh my, you have really had it. So, so sorry to hear.
Bob poses with my first
Fred Barton
January 19, 2009
Bob, you were a Hollywood original. You will be missed by one and all. I was proud to know and work with you. Take it easy, Buddy!!!
Mike O'Brien
January 19, 2009
Thank you Bob, you've given us all so many fond memmories.
Phil Hamilton
January 19, 2009
Bob May was truly a nice guy who just bubbled with energy. Quick with a story and huge friend/supporter to the B9Builders club. He will be missed. Thanks Bob for all the memories.
Julia Fitzgerald
January 19, 2009
My sympathy to Mr. Mays family and friends. He will be missed. I know he's looking down from up above, outside of his earthly bounds, and enjoying the view.
Greg Logue
January 19, 2009
We have all lost a great friend. My thoughts and prayers go out to the family and all his friends.
Ohio, 1999
January 19, 2009
Bob May signs my Robot replica's neon back plate.
Michael Joyce
January 19, 2009
Bob was a great supporter of the Robot club, he really cared for his fans and he will be greatly missed.
Dawn Hukai
January 19, 2009
Deepest sympathies to all family and friends. I grew up watching Lost in Space in syndication, and Mr. May's Robot was always an "affirmative" presence.
Tom Pittman
January 19, 2009
Bob May was a friend whom I had the pleasure of visiting with each year at several So. Cal. conventions. He was just about the last person alive who knew my dad and had worked with him at the studios. I was quite saddened when I heard he lost his house last November in the San Fernando fires a week before Thanksgiving. Guess it was just too much for him. He was truly a class act who gave a spark of joy and an insatiable love of life to everyone he met.
Jeff Ogden
January 19, 2009
While I did not know Bob, his work on Lost in Space was memorable. He will be missed. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends. God bless.
Rob Mills
January 19, 2009
So many thanks for the wonder, excitement and "Warnings!" your work has given to us all.
Scot Morrison
January 19, 2009
Bob,
Thank you for inspiring my imagination. You brought joy and peace into my heart.
David (Space ad Astronautics News)
January 19, 2009
Bob spent many hours in the robot suit for Lost in Space and was a real pro. He made it look alive.
Rob Kay
January 19, 2009
Bob--Thanks for a lifetime of fun and entertainment. I enjoyed meeting you at the "Lost in Space" conventions.
Ana Sarca
January 19, 2009
He brought joy to many. My prayers are with the family and friends.
Ricky Masterman
January 19, 2009
Sorry to hear of Mr. May's passing. My brother and I have fond memories of him coming over to visit my dad back when we were kids growing up on Parker Blvd. He was a very, very nice man. Bob...YOU WILL BE MISSED!
Josie
January 19, 2009
My condolences to the May family. That phrase will always be remembered, "danger Will Robinson". I also remember the movie Hellzapoppin, I saw it as a very young girl and thought it was so funny. Bob is in much better hands now, and is with our redeemer and savior Jesus Christ.
cindy
January 19, 2009
I loved the robot on Lost In Space. In fact, recently I purchased a toy Lost In Space robot at a toy store. He is a classic. Thank you to Mr. May for providing great entertainment. My condolences to his family.
Dawn Baker
January 19, 2009
"Lost in Space" was a memorable part of my childhood. I was 9 and my sister was 7, and we were fascinated by the thought of traveling through space and discovering other life forms. We took this tongue-in-cheek show very seriously, often hiding behind pillows during the scary parts! Thanks Bob May for bringing the part of the robot to life.
Henryk Zaleski USN (Ret)
January 19, 2009
Thank you for sharing your life with us.
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