Robert James Wilson

It is with great sadness we heard of Bob`s passing. He was a great guy! Generous by nature, and a memorable contagious laugh.

He was among the earliest of the volunteers that helped keep the Marine Mammal Center going. He also became a family friend. Our daughter, Christie, especially remembers his gift of two zebra finches for her birthday back in 1976.

Bob was my sounding board when dealing with people from other organizations. He often came with me to meetings with park service, other GGNRA, organizations and conferences with other wildlife groups. I remember him accompanying me to a meeting with Cal fish and game in regards to permits and possible funding. After the meeting with the Director, all we got were his good wishes, and Bob said "We just have to look in another direction".

He also became involved with sea lion rescues. One story he told sticks in my mind like I was there. It involved a night rescue to Santa Cruz or Monterey with Marc Webber. They went down to rescue a young California sea lion who was malnourished. They drove down in Marc´s truck that had a camper cover. They put the sea lion in the back and Bob took the wheel so Marc could rest. They had the back window of the truck open so they could check on the sea lion. On the way back Marc fell asleep. The sea lion woke up and the next thing you know he is poking his head through the back window and watching the traffic. Soon he falls asleep too with his head on Marc´s shoulder. They both slept that way the rest of the way home.

Bob, as the many other volunteers, made a big difference in those beginning years. Without Bob and those others the center might not be here today. Bob, especially, left his thumbprint.

I salute Bob, with martini in hand, thank you for your friendship.

Bob was always a force to be reckoned with, a friend in need, and voice of exuberance. He was the best of us!

Little did I know that over 40 years ago on the back of the Tiburon Ferry, I would meet my best and dearest friend. We did everything together, Monday Night Football, trips to Death Valley and so many amazing adventures. Bob, you became my confidant, my sounding board, my trusted guide through some of the most horrible and challenging times of my life. Your love for me never wavered and my love for you never wavered. In fact, it grew even stronger. You were always there for Morgan when I navigated life as a single mother. You were a constant force in both of our lives and I want to say thank you. You came to help me after my surgeries, I came to help you after yours. I accepted your nickname for me Nurse Ratched, we laughed about it, but you knew my love for you came from the deepest part of my heart.

During your last difficult, difficult year, we talked multiple times a day, trying to make sense of your blood tests, your ever changing symptoms, your internal struggles. Then I became your confidant, your sounding board, your trusted guide through your most challenging times. I feel so blessed that I could finally show you all the love and compassion that you had shown me my entire adult life.

Sadly, I knew your birthday last December would most likely be your last. I got on a plane, we booked your favorite beach house in Monterey, I waited on you hand and foot, you loved that. We sat in the hot tub and laughed and laughed. We wandered the beach with our cameras something we had done for 40 years. I will hold on tight to our very precious memories. You asked me to keep a promise to you
10 months ago which I accepted with an open heart.
I just did not think I would have to keep it so soon.

I have a huge whole in my heart Bob but I will live in gratitude for the many unforgettable years that we shared life´s sweet journey together...
I love you, Kelley.

I was fortunate enough to call Bob my amazing lifelong friend for over 50 years!!! In his professional attorney capacity, he provided the equal opportunity office with legal advice, assisted with numerous creative settlement agreements, provided training to managers and employees. Bob challenged me throughout my professional career to find resolutions to complaints, giving opportunities to employees and managers alike. We worked together and enjoyed a lifelong friendship. My granddaughter remembers Bob giving us a private tour at the Marine mammal center. I will always remember our lively office lunches at Bulls, our get togethers with IRS retirees, and of our course our numerous lunches at Sam´s in Half Moon bay. In this last year, we were fortunate enough to enjoy private time with Bob in his beautiful condo overlooking the Richardson Bay. I will always remember our precious moments with Bob. He lived life to the fullest and was so admired by many. We will all miss Bob but he will always be in our hearts.

This giant of a man, his laugh and commanding voice, and gentle hands caring for elephant seals and fur seals at The Marine Mammal Center. Remember, sea lions don't bite!

God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Bob 'broke me in' as a new volunteer at The Marine Mammal Center. His laugh was infectious and he was always finding humor no matter how 'messy' our work was. He taught me so much and was instrumental in my becoming a regular volunteer at TMMC. I last saw him before COVID interrupted things at TMMC and I was always hopeful I'd see him again once things returned to 'normal'. Unfortunately, that wasn't to be. He had a huge impact on me even though I only knew him for short time. Rest in peace, Bob. We're all going to miss you!