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Robert A. Williams

Robert Williams Obituary

Robert A. Williams, 69, died in May 2009.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Arizona Republic from Jun. 2 to Jul. 7, 2009.

Memories and Condolences
for Robert Williams

71 Entries

Jason Bernstein

June 1, 2010

I just found out about the passing of Bob. My sincere condolences to Anthony and his other children. I remember how happy Bob was in moving from that little cramped store in Arrowhead to the "wharehouse" space in Peoria. One time at the store, we had some Norah Jones on and he came over and just started to dance! He is probably dancing (and hiking) in heaven now. May G-d rest his soul.

Dan Curtis

April 28, 2010

Bob's passing is a great loss to all of us who new him. Bob was one of the truly nice people of this world. He was always upbeat and had the ability to make you feel good about being with him.My wife Candy and I would like to extend our deepest sympathy to Bob's family he is unreplaceable and surely must be with God now talking about the newest stereo tweeks!

Mike Uysal

September 9, 2009

I was saddened to learn Bob left us. Everytime I visited his store, no matter what was going on he was always friendly and helpful - a true gentleman.

Tiffany True

August 21, 2009

I only knew Bob for short while but thought he was such an interesting man. I think he genuinely appreciated the human experience, making connections with people. I had the warmest of feelings after our conversations.
Bob and Lynn are wonderful people and my thoughts are with them.

Mike Izo

July 24, 2009

I am so sad to hear this news. Bob was a gentle man and someone that I came to admire in the short time that I knew him.

Leonard Torrez

July 14, 2009

To hear of Bob's passing was indeed a shock. I knew Bob for only a short time and considered him an (old time) friend. He will be sorely missed by all who knew him.

Cal Cochran

July 3, 2009

I was very saddened to hear of Bob's death.
He and I were in the class of '57 at Morningside High School. We were on the track team and even got to run several races in the 4 X 440 yard relay. We even one race. We had great fun.
I lost touch with him for years until Jim McGowan, another track team member, located Bob for me. I talked to him for the first time in Oct. '08, just one month from our 50th class reunion in Nov. '08.
We had learned we both had the audio bug and ended up talking for over an hour.
I am so thankful that I was able to catch up on so many things that occurred over the last 50 years.
My prayers are with you.

July 3, 2009

My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

Garry Fulk

June 25, 2009

I am saddened to hear of Bob's passing.

I met Bob through a family member. He was very highly recommended as being a knowledgeable resource for my home theatre needs. And that he truly was, but Bob was oh so much more. In the short time I knew Bob I appreciated his wit, his love of life, his incredible knowledge of music, and his sincerity. As we walk through life, we can only wish someone like Bob could touch our lives. We were blessed that Bob touched ours. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and may he rest in peace.

Lon Grushko

June 22, 2009

I was truly saddened to hear of Bob's passing. He was respected and will truly be missed. My best thoughts and prayers to the William's family.

June 20, 2009

I am saddened to hear of Bob's tragic death.

I had a crush on Bob as a pre teen when he visited our cousin in Pittsburgh. Didn't see him again for forty years when I spent some time in Phoenix. He was married at the time and graciously welcomed me to the area.

I know that he was full of life; smart, and talented.

He will be missed by all his family and friends.

Judy Zapparelli Gellis

Stephen Monte

June 20, 2009

Lisa, Jon, Tony and Jeff I am very Sorry to hear this tragic news.I was a business acquaintance of Bob's, and he always keep me on my toes. He had a wonderful sense of humor and a great personality..

We had many conversations on the phone about family, friends and business.
Bob was always a pleasure to talk with.

He will be missed ..My deepest condolences to your family.

Debra Cole-Weber

June 19, 2009

I am Bob's cousin Debbie, daughter of his Uncle Ned and Aunt Nancy in Pittsburgh.

I have just heard about his death, and I want to let all of his children, Lisa, Jon, Tony and Jeff know how sorry I am.

Bob always had such a big personality and had so many gifts; I idolized him when I was a child. Our grandmother, especially, cherished him. I can remember his drawings and letters and how excited I always was when he sent me something.

We are very sorry to hear this news, and I wish all of you, even though we have never met, peace and healing.

Stephanie Naumoff

June 19, 2009

Dear Williams Family & Friends,

I know that no words exsist in this world that could ever bring you enough comfort. My heart & prayers go out to you all.

May fond memories stay with you always.

Karen Richardson

June 18, 2009

We were so sorry to hear about Bob's tragic death. Our heartfelt condolences to your family. My company, Audiophile Systems has done business with the AudioNut store for several years. Bob had a truly philosophical bent and I will miss our conversations.

Craig Thiele

June 17, 2009

I wanted to send my condolences to the Williams family and Bob's friends. I only met Bob once, while hiking with my son on Hermit's trail the day he fell. He impressed me immediately as a truly special person. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Bill Coomes

June 16, 2009

I shared a gathering of audiophile club members with Bob and his friends at dinner on only two occasions, one was to celebrate Dean's birthday. Bob William's enthusiasm, intelligence, persona and love for his friends, was a joy to be around. He made everyone feel good and appreciated. I prayed and prayed that he would be found in good sprits, and wondering out loud, what took us so long to get there. I miss 'hanging out' with a very special human being, and someone that I respected. Bill Coomes

Pamela Metcalf

June 16, 2009

I have know Bob since 1968 when I was the Bose Girl. He and I were feirce competitors in health insurance in the 80's. My dad, Hal Metcalf, Bob and me shared a love of audio. I will miss the Audio Nut. He was a fine man.

Louis Osborn

June 13, 2009

Folks I met Bob(Mr. Williams)several years ago,have attended a football game with him and his friends,and helped him move items to his home.A really pleasant man,loved to hike,and camp loved the outdoors.He was a local business man in town,very sharp,like one person said age is just a number.Any comfort is that he died doing what he loved best,in a place that he enjoyed going to.We all will leave this earth at a time and place pre determined for us,he will be missed by his family and friends. Lou Sr

June 13, 2009

Louis Osborn

June 13, 2009

Miguel Rodriguez

June 13, 2009

I would like to pass my condolences to your family Bob. I was saddened to hear what happened.. You were a good man who greeted me with open arms 5 years ago when I first met you. You were there for me when my mother passed away and I will never forget that.. Rest in peace my friend ...

June 10, 2009

I am so sorry Bob. We are all deeply saddened by your passing. We shall meet again. Your Friend, Bill Elander

p.s. I will pray for your Sons and Daughter.

Leo Munoz

June 9, 2009

Anthony & Family
Our sincere condolences to you and your family during this difficult time.
Greg and I were deeply saddened to hear about Bob's tragic passing.

As you well know your father was a very special individual who was always willing to pass that great knowledge he had about music to anyone willing to listen. Greg will miss his little discussions about music with him and of course all those CD's, Bob always had waiting for him.

Although we only knew Bob through the store over the last six or seven years his friendship,wisdom and honesty touched Greg and myself.

Bob's loss will leave a large vacumn in the lives of his family and friends.

Anthony our thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family.

Greg & Leo Munoz

June 9, 2009

Anthony, shocked and deeply saddened to hear the news of your Dad. I appreciated your father's integrity and graciousness in his dealings with those of us in the industry and I'll miss a friend in our business. God Bless you and your family during these difficult times and always.
Your friend, Bill Tasher
Irvine CA

Don Hoglund

June 9, 2009

Tony, Jeff, and Family of Bob Williams;

My sincere condolences in your personal loss. I first met Bob some 14 years ago. And I will never forget our first encounter. We haggled over a line conditioner and then shared hot dogs at an audio swap meet. I've considered him a friend ever since. Bob impressed me from the very first as a man's man.

Your father was loved by most everyone who knew him, and he will be greatly missed. Bob was so genuine and full of life. And he always had a kind word for everyone else. Bob was a man of high integrity in his personal relationships and in his business dealings. I have great respect for your father and deeply admire his many life's accomplishments. He was always so proud of you, his sons.

I got to know Bob better when I joined the Arizona Audiophile Society when he was club President. He was such a great club leader. His energy and dynamic personality, coupled with his love of music and audio gear; made for a great club experience for everyone. I followed in Bob's footsteps when he recommended me and handed over the president's job to me. But, I never filled his footsteps. At best, I followed in the path he made before me. He was always so helpful behind the scenes. Bob wanted everyone to do well and he helped anyone he could, never expecting anything in return. He is a genuine good soul.

Bob was such a great man to have known and I was so fortunate to have been able to count him as a cherished friend. I miss him. He was taken from us all, way too soon.

My prayers and best wishes to you in this difficult time.

Don Hoglund, Granite Audio.

Terry Garceau

June 8, 2009

Anthony & Family,
My deepest condolences to you. Bob was such a kind and generous man. Through his friendship and wisdom he touched me deeply. He will be missed, but not forgotten.

Barbara Heinemann

June 8, 2009

Bob was such a powerful influence in my life, from career, children, sailing, hiking, marriage, every area was touched by him. Words are not enough for me to express my shock and sorrow at his passing.

My heart goes out to all of his family. I have been remembering all of you in my prayers and all of you will forever be in my heart.

Bob will be remembered, always.

Love to all of you,

June 8, 2009

Bob's sister Carol and I want to thank you all for the wonderful things
you have said about our brother. The entire family apprecitates you all taking the time to share with us your feelings.
His sister Sandy (Orange County, CA)

Chuck Bothe

June 8, 2009

Being with Bob was a great experience - he had so much energy and love for life, people and music. All of my conversations with Bob are treasured. He would go off on tangents now and then, yet he was always very present. Bob was a caring guy and I was glad to have known him. I am praying for all of those who are missing him most - his family and friends.

Martin Reavis

June 8, 2009

Anthony and family,

I am sorry for your loss. I respected Bob very much. He was so easy to talk to and made you feel like you had known him for years when you had just met. Although I only knew him through visiting Audionut I could tell he was a gentle upstanding guy. He never tried to sell me anything he just wanted to share my experience of loving music and audio equipment. I had been planning on bringing in my daughter so that he could meet her. He will be greatly missed.

Lee Clarke

June 6, 2009

Dear Williams family: I only met Bob Williams one time. At that time I thanked him for the greatest gift he could have given me--my new daughter-in-law, Lisa. She is part of his living legacy. I know he will be greatly missed and long remembered.

Bob Graham

June 6, 2009

The Great Bob Williams!

A dear friend of over 25 years has departed this earth. Bob enjoyed life to the fullest. He shared his life with everyone he knew.

Bob went our of his way to always make people feel welcomed and to show the genuine concern he had for them as individuals. He was a tremendous organizer and a true leader.

I want to thank him again for his personal assitance and guidance that he gave to me regarding two major decisions in my insurance career. His advice and assistance were invaluable.

I am deeply saddend by his death. May his family accept my deepest sympathies. May Bob rest in peace.

Georgia Eberle

June 6, 2009

I worked several years with Bob as the receptionist at the Maricopa Foundation, and had the oportunity to get to know him. He was a very kind, funny and helpful man and I will miss him. My prayers and thoughts go out to the family.

Milly Vian

June 6, 2009

Although I did not work in the same departmant with Bob, I had the opportunity through personell to become aquanited with Bob and enjoyed swaping jokes and quips. It is a great loss and he will be missed.

Steve Bruzonsky

June 6, 2009

Tony, Jeff, Family and Friends;

I first met Bob when I joined the Arizona Audiophile Society back in 1999. Of course Bob welcomed me into the club and he introduced me to the best Greek food in Phoenix. When Bob first started Audionut, I met both Tony and Jeff working with Bob in the business. And that told me so much about Bob, what a wonderful father and family person he is. And Bob also talked about his other children, too, although I never had the pleasure of meeting them. I have no doubt that Bob, with his talents, passions, wisdom, integrity and love for family and friends will live on in his children and family, and that all of us who count Bob as a friend will miss him. My sincere condolences to Tony, Jeff and your family.

Bud Alter

June 6, 2009

Bob had a rare gift. He made you feel like an old friend from the first time you met. He genuinely cared for people and it showed. The smile he greeted every customer with was sincere. I never felt like I was going to a store, I was always visiting a friend. I will miss his wisdom, generosity, honesty, and passion for sharing. There were many of us “Audionuts” that looked to Bob for help and insight. He saw his role as a way to reach out and make peoples lives better. My life is better for knowing Bob and he will be missed!

Sarah Orona

June 6, 2009

Dear Williams Family- We were rafting the Grand Canyon last week when we stopped at Phantom Ranch and had seen the poster of your missing loved one. My daugher and I said a prayer for him at this time. I do believe that the Grand Canyon is the thumb print of god and after traveling the world I feel closest to heaven while in the canyon. I looked online today and read the sad news and shared it with my family. Our hearts and prayers go out to you all. We are so sorry for your loss.
Sincerely,
Sarah Orona and family from Colorado

Bob Thrasher

June 5, 2009

To the Bob Williams Family:

I only knew Bob for the past year or so but really enjoyed visiting with him. Bob had a sincere, friendly approach to people. He was down to earth and always had a story that helped enhance the conversation. My heartfelt condolences to all of the family, my thoughts and prayers are with you in your loss.

June 5, 2009

Bob was a dynamic force in his insurance days and carried that same energy, fun and intensity forward into his audio days. I hope all of us who knew Bob will celebrate who he was in all of the various aspects of his life. My prayers are with his family.

Judi (Carns) Hayer
Phoenix, AZ

Brian Snyder

June 4, 2009

Anthony: My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time.

I was deeply saddened when I heard the news this morning.

I have been a long time customer of Bob’s and Anthony’s at both Audionut locations. Even though I was a customer, I always thought of Bob as more of a true and genuine friend. I actually found myself enjoying the personal interactions with Bob at the store or on the phone more that just talking about the audio business and products.

From the first moment you heard him answer the phone “AudioNuuuuut” you could tell that you were dealing with someone who genuinely loved what he was doing and wanted to pass along his experiences to other audionuts so they could enjoy music like he did. He truly cared personally about his customers. Those who knew his true character wouldn’t be surprise to hear that.

In our journeys thru life, it is pretty rare that we get to know someone as special as Bob. I know that I consider myself lucky to have known him and my life is richer and more blessed because of that.

He has a special place in my heart and I will miss him very much…

Elaine Davis

June 4, 2009

To the family: I worked with Bob for several years. He was one of a kind. I still have the speakers he told me to purchase (long before he was in the business). Sending my prayers to you and trusting the thoughts of many will bring a sense of comfort to you.

Lana Ruth

June 4, 2009

Learning of the unexpected death of a friend, business associate, THIEL dealer and fan, Bob Williams (Audionut, AZ) was a huge blow to me today. I'm so thankful to have been someone that spoke to him recently and will miss his always smiling voice, his good samaritan story for the day and his love of life. Anthony, as you already know - your father was very special! Lana Ruth

Geno Tambascio

June 4, 2009

I was shocked and then heartbroken to hear what had happened. My condolences go out to his family. Anthony I am sorry for your loss, Bob was a great guy and a pleasure to talk with. He will be greatly missed.

May God bring you comfort and peace knowing Bob is at his side.

Gerry Schwartzberg

June 4, 2009

To Bob's Family: I first met Bob when he was working with the Maricopa Foundation 20 or so years ago We became friendly,and even more so when we found we shared a love of Hobie Cats. We sailed together,and under his supervision, I learned how to "fly the hull" That's something I'll never forget. Bob will always be alive for me-laughing, strung out on his "diaper", the wind humming in the sails, and loving the beauty of that eternal moment.He was a great guy-quite unique in his wide interests and piercing intelligence. I can hardly believe that he's gone.But He's really not--He'll always be alive for me in the memories of the time that I was lucky enough to be his friend.

Rusty Taub of Audiotion

June 4, 2009

Anthony, family & friends.
I'm so sorry to hear about your dad. He was a wonderful man with such life and energy. Out thoughts will be with you and your family.

Larry Hardwick

June 4, 2009

Anthony,
Sorry to here about your Dad, he will be missed by those who got to know him. My prayers are with you and your family.

June 4, 2009

Anthony, family and friends,

My last conversation with Bob was in early May and it was more profound than most. His humor, zest for life and zest for audio was still in tact, but we discussed many other things. I am thankful for that conversation as I feel I knew him even better than I did over the previous 7 years. We had a dealer-vendor relationship, but he was one of a kind, and my discussions with him were always like no other. I can only guess his life was a full one. All of us at THIEL Audio are saddened by his passing and now being unable to anticipate his wacky first comments when we pick up the phone.

Our thoughts and prayers are with each of you.

Ken Dawkins
THIEL Audio
Lexington, KY

John Dakis

June 4, 2009

Anthony, family, and friends,

When I met Bob almost twenty years ago, I knew he was a special person. He knew how to live life, and did so with gusto. In business, he was always fair and honest and seemed to always know what the "right thing" was, whether it was to make a business transaction "right" or to make a
contribution to a good cause.

May his spirit continue to live in all of us, and may God have him as the gatekeeper to that
playlist in his new home.

John and Maureen Dakis and family

Jon Williams

June 4, 2009

I am Bob's oldest son, Jon. My father was a man of many talents and passions, as your gracious words all attest. This is a very difficult time for my sister, Lisa, and my brothers, Tony and Jeff. Know, however, as we do, that Bob lives on in every one of us who had the pleasure of knowing him, and that he passed doing what he loved to do, in a place he loved to be.

Loren Roetman

June 3, 2009

Bob always seemed truly happy to see me and had a kind word when I saw him at a vendor or at the CES or when I stopped by the shop. He was always kind and patient with me when I was new to the business. I was supposed to be the "expert" and he at that time (even as the president of the Arizona Audiophile Society) was the supposed amateur, but he took the time to help clue me in. It was never just about the gear, it was about the music. He was truly influential with so many people, in truly important ways. He will be missed.

Thanks to his family for sharing Bob with us all these years.

God rest his soul.
I pray comfort and peace for his family.

Sandi Flowers (Downing)

June 3, 2009

I had the privilege of knowing and working with Bob for many years. I had not seen Bob in several years but he remained a strong part of many happy memories. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.

Gardner Family

June 3, 2009

We are heart broaken at the hearing of the loss. We were on the Hermit Trail the day he fell and spent some time visiting with him. So kind and anxious to please, making sure we all had water. Our prayers are with you.
602-997-0734

Mike and Linda Cawley

June 3, 2009

Our prayers go out to the Williams family. We really enjoyed our visits to Bob's store and our chats with him. Bob always was more than generous with advice and guidance and just plain fun to talk to. We will miss him terribly.

Grandpa Bob

June 3, 2009

Cathy Caseri

June 3, 2009

I am so very sorry for you loss. Hang on to each other for strength in this horrible time.
Our prayers are with you
Cathy Caseri and family

June 3, 2009

We love you and miss you. This was way too soon and way too sudden.

John Gerard

June 3, 2009

I am extremely sorry for your loss. It’s difficult to believe that a man so full of life is no longer with us. I’ve had the pleasure of knowing Bob for a number of years and will truly miss his wit, wisdom, and compassion for life. Bob loved music and shared his knowledge of music with thousands.

So from one Audionut to another we will miss you my fried.

Gina (Lapriore) LaFevers

June 3, 2009

My thoughts and prayers are with you all. I had the privilege of working with Bob for several years - he was a great mentor and friend. I still fall back on several of the tools Bob taught me, he will be missed.

Susan Williams

June 3, 2009

Our heartfelt prayers to the Williams family. We have been customers of Bob and he is incredibly creative and a unique person. We share your sadness.
Susan and Lee Williams

Beverly Burrow

June 3, 2009

Bob was an amazing person,the most intelligent,creative,witty and loving person I ever knew. I had the privilege of knowing him for many years and will treasure those memories for the rest of my life. It's a tragic loss for everyone, but especially his children and grandchildren. My prayers go out to them.

Mary Butterfield

June 2, 2009

I'm so sorry to hear about Bob. I had not seen him for a few years but will always remember what a gentleman he was. My prayers are with the family.

Robert Kingsby

June 2, 2009

Williams family, you know this more then I do that your father/husband was truly a great man. He has always made me feel very welcome and important. He always had kind words and a warm smile. He will be missed by me and my family.
May God Bless you and your family.

Dan Mangus

June 2, 2009

Anthony and Family,

Over the past few years a had gotten to know Bob through our mutual passion for hifi, though we had mainly a business relationship Bob had a way of making you feel you were a little part of the AudioNut family. His knowledge, stories and wisdom will be missed.
My sincere condolences to Tony and family.

Neil Johnson

June 2, 2009

I have been one of Bob's customers. I have always enjoyed doing business with him. He was a people person and a true gentleman.

I am so sorry for your loss.

Doug Lang

June 2, 2009

Anthony&Family,
I am truly heartbroken and sadden on hearing the news about the loss of a close friend.Bob will always remain in my thoughts.My deepest sympathy and condolences to you Tony and to the rest of the Williams family.

Deborah Padilla

June 2, 2009

So very sorry for your loss. I've been to the Canyon and it so dangerous. My thoughts and prayers for your family.

Bonnie Barker

June 2, 2009

Sorry for your loss. May the memories of your loved one give you some peace during this time of sadness. I was Bob's stepdaughter at one time and he was always generous to myself and my sons. God bless his whole family.

The Barker Family

Lance Travis

June 2, 2009

Bob was truly a great guy. He loved what he did and he always had some new magic piece of electronics he wanted to show ya. He will be truly be missed.

M. P.

June 2, 2009

I am so very sorry for your loss. Mr. Williams was a very nice and caring man, greatly loved by his family and friends. My thoughts and prayers are with his family.

Susan G.

June 2, 2009

I'm very sorry for your loss...may God bless you at this time.

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