ROBERT FARGASON

Bob passed away on Monday, December 27, 2011, at the age of 85 at Saint Agnes Medical Center, where he was surrounded by family. He was born on November 13, 1926, in Colton, California. Bob graduated from Colton Union High school in 1944. Upon completing high school, Bob enlisted in the United States Navy which would go on to become an integral part of his life. After completion of his military service, he graduated from San Bernadino Valley Community College in 1951 and then moved to Fresno where he graduated from Fresno State College in 1953. His career at Fresno City Unified School District began that same year and spanned a 35 year period. Bob started at Fresno High School as an Instructor of Electricity and Radio. He subsequently went on to the Washington Occupational Center where he met his wife Maxine, and then went on to Bullard High School where he was employed as the Work Experience Counselor. After retiring from Fresno Unified School District, his love for the Navy called him back. In 1989, he became an Education Specialist for the United States Navy, where he assisted many young men and women in establishing naval careers. He received many awards in this position from which he retired in 1998. Bob is a member of Epsilon Pi Tau, international honorary professional fraternity in industrial arts and education. He is a Past Master of Fresno Lodge #247 and a 32nd Degree Mason. He had a great love for the sea and for many years, he and Maxine sailed the San Francisco Bay on their sailboat the "Nordic Star". Their love for travel also took them on many vacations around the world with Mexico being one of their favorite ports of call. He was predeceased by his step daughter, Jeralyn Johnson-Gutilla. He also leaves behind his in-laws Max and LaVere Robinson of Fresno; sister's-in-law, Valdene Thomason and husband Colburn; Janell Boldt and husband Marvin and many nieces and nephews. Bob is survived by his wife, Maxine; daughter, Tamara of San Mateo; stepson's, Jay Johnson and wife Laurie of Clovis, and Jordan Johnson of North Fork. He is the proud grandfather of Kelly Gutilla, and wife Aimee of Sacramento, Scott Johnson and Kyle Johnson of Fresno; Maxx Johnson and wife Gloria; Michelle Johnson, and Hayley Johnson of Fresno, and 3 great grand children Mia, Cole and Sierra. A Memorial Service will be held at the Fresno Masonic Center, 3444 East Shields Ave, Fresno, CA. 93726, on Saturday, January 7, 2012 at 11:00 a.m. A gathering of friends and family will be held following the service at San Joaquin Country Club. The family asks that in lieu of flowers remembrances may be made to Children's Hospital of Central California, Nancy Hinds Hospice, or the charity of your choice.