Robert John Pieters

Robert John Pieters, known to all as "Bob" and to many as "The Buffalo Rider," passed away on March 20, 2026, in Carson City, Nevada, leaving behind a legacy of ingenuity, resilience, and unwavering love for family. He was born August 19, 1946, in Bandung, Indonesia, to John Valentyne Pieters and Berendina Pieters (Van Beekom), both of whom preceded him in death. In search of a better life this family moved to the Netherlands where they lived for two years.

Bob immigrated to the United States on February 26, 1957, beginning a lifelong journey shaped by hard work, curiosity, and an independent spirit. He was the oldest of ten siblings, a role he carried with quiet strength. His brothers and sisters include Hilly Gerda, Paul Michael, Roy Edward, Gabrielle Eveline, Josua Christian, Margaret Valentine Rose, Henry Ewald Herman, Lester Benjamin, and Janice Rebecca.

He graduated from South Pasadena High School, Class of 1965, where he proudly played football as Running Back #22, demonstrating early on the determination and grit that would define his life.

A gifted mechanic and problem-solver, Bob seemed able to fix—or build—anything. His hands were rarely still, and his mind was always working. He was the owner and founder of Bob's Motor Works from 1980 to 2005, where his mechanical skill and honest approach earned lasting respect. A sign hung in his office that captured his philosophy perfectly:
"Success is not the result of spontaneous combustion; you have to set yourself on fire."

A true innovator, and captivating storyteller, Bob laid claim to the invention of the breakfast burrito, his signature creation lovingly known among friends and family as 'The Buffalo Rider' circa 1969 while working for Four J Motors, a Volkswagen dealership in Huntington Park California as a mechanic. It was just another example of his creativity and his ability to blend practicality with personality.
Bob loved camping and boating, finding peace in the outdoors and joy in motion, whether on water, road, or trail. He lived life hands-on, always tinkering, always improving, and always curious.

He was the devoted father of Shannon Marie Caroline Gonzales and Cameron Michael Pieters, and a proud grandfather to Phoenix Uptain, Robert Duncan, Austin Pieters, El Pieters, Jalina Morales, Jaxton Morales, and Jayzen Morales. His legacy continues through his great-grandchildren Dylan, Prescott, and Payson, each one carrying forward his spirit.

Bob's life included marriages with: Laura Pieters (divorced), Donica Pieters (divorced), and Kim Pieters, who preceded him in death. He is survived by his loving domestic partner, Bobbie Brown, who shared companionship and life with him in his later years.

"Bob's journey was one of constant motion and quiet determination. He leaves behind not just the things he built and fixed, but a blueprint for a life lived with grit, curiosity, and an independent spirit. He will be deeply missed by all who knew the man behind the legendary 'Buffalo Rider' nickname."

A celebration of life will be held at his son's house in South Reno on April 4th 2026.