Robert Edward "Bob" McGaughey III

Robert Edward McGaughey III, known to his friends as Bob, passed away on August 22, 2023, at the age of 74 in Porter Ranch, CA. Born on May 19, 1949, in Hollywood, CA, Bob was a remarkable individual who made a lasting impact on everyone he encountered.

Bob was the kind of person who could light up any room with his wonderful smile and infectious laugh. He had a larger-than-life personality and a great sense of humor, making him a captivating storyteller. Bob's big ideas and willingness to try new things led him on diverse career paths throughout his lifetime. He pursued acting and filmmaking, hard hat diving, created a successful health food sandwich business, worked as a private investigator and insurance salesman, built airplanes, and dove into securities trading. Bob was a Renaissance man with a fearless enthusiasm for exploration that was evident in everything he did.

Bob's educational journey began at Hollywood High School, where in the late 1960s he showcased his theatrical talents in leading roles, such as Captain Fisby in "Teahouse of the August Moon." He later studied filmmaking at Los Angeles City College and honed his acting craft under the tutelage of Warren Robertson in New York City.

Bob's spirituality and quest for a deeper understanding of the world guided him throughout his life. He was a dedicated reader of the Urantia Book and actively participated in numerous study groups, sharing his knowledge and insights with people from all walks of life as he passed by.

Bob had a wide range of hobbies and interests. He embarked on adventures around the world, relishing in the experiences different cultures had to offer. An avid reader, Bob had a particular affinity for history and biography. He also enjoyed flying private planes and dreamt of owning a seaplane. A man of many talents, Bob's creative spirit extended to screenwriting and filmmaking, and he loved playing the guitar, painting, and writing songs.

Bob will be dearly missed by his surviving loved ones, including his adoring wife Betsy (Elizabeth Hardenbergh Rodie), his loving sister Ada Deborah Nicholson of Silver City, NV, and many beloved cousins, nieces and nephews, and friends. He was preceded in death by his mother Sonia Lacayo, father Robert Edward Jr., and siblings Sonia Roberta and Leopoldo Jose.

A celebration of Bob's life was held on November 4, 2023, and his ashes were scattered at sea, allowing him to forever be a part of the vast and beautiful ocean he loved. In memory of Bob, contributions can be made to the Urantia Fellowship, an organization close to his heart.

Bob's zest for life, entrepreneurial spirit, and warm personality will forever be cherished by those who had the privilege of knowing him. He leaves behind a legacy of laughter, creativity, and a thirst for knowledge that will continue to inspire others.