ROBERT C. SPEAKER

Bob could light up a room or the entire outdoors--he was that charismatic. His wasn't a selfish beacon, but one that shone from the delight in his soul for sharing all that he cared about. As an employee at the National Arboretum, I saw Bob come and go, doing the countless chores for the Youth Garden that brought him close to just a few of his passions: gardening, wildlife, and kids. Our brief encounters always raised my spirits. You just couldn't help but be uplifted by this man's joyful...

On behalf of the Diffell Family formerly of Morningside Maryland I would like to extend our sympathy to Bob's family. We lived next door to Bob on Skyline Drive in Morningside, MD.

Gramps was a hero to me fighting cancer for a year. I will always love you gramps. Rest in peace. I love you.

My condolences to the whole family. Bob was always an inspiration for me. He touched the lives of countless Youth Garden participants and I witnessed just a few instances of this. He had a knack for drawing kids into the natural world and cultivating their fascination for nature, all the while inspiring them to do great things with their lives. I will miss his quick wit, selfless caring for others, and reverence for nature.

Thank you for your endless dedication to the Washington Youth Garden. You will be missed by many. Blessings for peace and consolation to Bob's family.

I had the pleasure of working with Butterfly Bob at the U.S. National Arboretum. No matter how cold, hot, or rainy Butterfly Bob was there to work in the Youth Garden. His smile cheered up everyone he encountered and his efforts provided food and homes for pollinators of all kinds. He was a special person who will be dearly missed.

I did not know Mr. Speaker but as a fellow volunteer I extend my deepest condolences to his family and friends. Peace & Blessings to All.

I didnt know him but he seemed full of life and in great spirit. Rest in peace Bob.

Amy - my sincere condolences on Bob's passing. He was a gentle soul and always a pleasure to work with.My fondest memory of him was 22 years ago at Don Hirschfeld's retirement. I had my 3 month old daughter with me and Bob asked to hold her.With perfect ease he picked her up and held her to his chest. My daughter immediately snuggled her head into his shoulder and quickly fell asleep.She stayed that way for about an hour. Even though I asked several times if he wanted to give her up, he...